Ever faced a situation that sent others into a frenzy, but you remained calm?
Maybe you’ve wondered why you handle stress differently. It might just be that you have a naturally stoic mindset.
Stoics are known for their ability to stay composed and rational, no matter what life throws at them. If you’re curious whether you fit this mold, there are a few telltale signs.
Let’s explore eight signs that suggest you might just have the cool, collected nature of a stoic without even realizing it!
1) Emotions don’t rule you
Emotions? You’ve got them under control.
It’s not that you’re emotionless. Far from it. You feel, just like everybody else. But where most people get swept up in the tide of their feelings, you stand firm.
You’re like a rock amidst the waves. The sea might crash against you, but it doesn’t move you. It doesn’t sway you.
Why?
Because you understand that emotions are transient. They come and go, like the changing of the tides. You don’t let them control you or dictate your actions.
Instead, you observe them, acknowledge their presence, and let them pass without letting them affect your peace of mind.
For others, this might seem daunting. But for you, it comes naturally. It’s just part of who you are.
In other words, emotions don’t rule you – you rule them. And that’s a clear sign of a stoic mindset.
2) You’re unfazed by the unexpected
Let me tell you a little story.
Last year, I was due for a big promotion at work. It was all but guaranteed, and I’d been working towards it for a long time. But then, out of the blue, things took a turn. The promotion went to someone else.
Most people would have been devastated. They would’ve let their disappointment get the better of them, and it might have affected their performance or even their overall motivation to continue with the job.
But not me. Sure, I was surprised, and yes, a part of me was disappointed too. But I didn’t let it get to me.
I simply accepted the situation for what it was, understanding that sometimes things just don’t go your way. I didn’t waste energy on anger or resentment.
Instead, I took it as an opportunity to learn and grow. I sought feedback, identified areas for improvement, and focused on becoming even better at my job.
See what I’m getting at here? The ability to stay calm and composed in the face of unexpected setbacks is a clear sign of a stoic mindset.
Life is unpredictable, but getting upset over things you can’t control simply isn’t the stoic way.
3) You value wisdom over wealth
Did you know that the word “Stoic” comes from the Greek “Stoa Poikile,” which translates as “painted porch”?
This painted porch was a public space in Athens where Zeno, the founder of Stoicism, used to teach his philosophy. But what’s interesting is that Zeno himself was once a wealthy merchant who lost everything when his ship sank.
Instead of despairing over his lost fortune, Zeno turned to philosophy and found value in wisdom rather than wealth.
Just like Zeno, if you naturally have a stoic mindset, you’ll understand that knowledge and wisdom are far more valuable than material possessions. You don’t chase after wealth or status but rather seek to understand the world around you and your place within it.
This focus on personal growth and understanding is what defines the stoic mindset – a thirst for wisdom that outweighs the desire for material gain.
4) You understand the difference between what you can and can’t control
Life is a complex blend of events, some within your control, others not. It’s easy to get caught up in the chaos and feel overwhelmed, especially when things don’t go as planned.
But not for you.
You inherently understand the vital distinction between what’s within your power to change and what isn’t. You don’t waste time or energy on things outside your control.
Instead, you focus on your own actions, responses, and attitudes – the areas where you can actually make a difference.
This ability to detach yourself from uncontrollable circumstances and maintain your equilibrium is a strong indication of a stoic mindset. It allows you to navigate life’s ups and downs with a level head, keeping your peace of mind intact no matter what comes your way.
5) You see obstacles as opportunities
Here’s something about me – I’ve always been one to look on the bright side. But it’s not just about being an optimist. It’s about perspective.
When I encounter a roadblock, I don’t view it as a dead-end. Instead, I see it as a chance to grow, to adapt, to learn something new. It’s an opportunity, not an obstacle.
I remember when I first started learning to play the guitar. My fingers would ache, and I’d struggle to get the chords right. It was frustrating, to say the least. But instead of letting that frustration get the better of me, I took it as a challenge. A challenge to improve and master something I was passionate about.
This reframing of adversity is a key aspect of stoicism.
If you naturally have a stoic mindset, you’ll see challenges as stepping stones rather than stumbling blocks. It’s not about denying the hardship; it’s about transforming it into an avenue for personal growth and development.
6) You’re comfortable with discomfort
Sounds a bit odd, right? But stay with me here.
Most people seek comfort. It’s human nature to avoid pain and seek pleasure. But if you have a stoic mindset, you understand that discomfort is an inherent part of life. And instead of running away from it, you embrace it.
Being comfortable with discomfort means that you’re not afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Whether it’s trying something new, pushing your limits, or facing difficult circumstances, you don’t shy away.
You know that it’s through these challenging situations that we grow the most. It’s in the struggle that we find strength.
Sure, it’s not an easy path. But as a stoic, you understand that the easy path isn’t always the one that leads to growth and fulfillment.
7) You live in the present
There’s a certain beauty in living in the here and now. It’s something that everyone talks about, but few truly understand.
If you have a stoic mindset, you’re one of those few.
You don’t dwell on past mistakes or worry about future uncertainties. Instead, you focus on the present moment, because you understand that this is all you truly have control over.
You appreciate the here and now, living each day as it comes and making the most of every moment. This doesn’t mean you don’t plan for the future or learn from the past; rather, it means you don’t let them consume your present.
This mindful approach to life is a clear sign of a stoic mindset. It allows you to live fully and authentically, without being held back by past regrets or future anxieties.
8) You embody tranquility and resilience
A stoic mindset isn’t just about logical thinking or emotional control. At its core, stoicism is about inner peace and resilience.
If you’re naturally stoic, you possess an inherent tranquility that can’t be disturbed by external events. You remain calm in the face of adversity, and resilient in the face of setbacks.
You understand that life is filled with ups and downs, but you don’t let them sway you or knock you off course. Instead, you navigate through them with grace and equanimity, always maintaining your inner serenity.
This tranquility and resilience are what set you apart and allow you to lead a life of purpose, wisdom, and inner peace.
Embracing the stoic mindset
If you’ve read this far, hopefully, you’ll have recognized a bit of yourself in these signs.
Stoicism isn’t about being stone-faced or unfeeling. It’s about understanding the nature of life, accepting what you can’t control, and focusing on what you can. It’s about finding tranquility amidst chaos and seeing opportunities in obstacles.
As the famous stoic philosopher, Marcus Aurelius once said, “You have power over your mind – not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.”
So, if these signs resonate with you, take a moment to appreciate your natural inclination towards stoicism. It’s not just a mindset; it’s a way of life that can lead to inner peace and resilience.
Embrace it, grow with it, and watch how it transforms your life for the better.
What would Marcus Aurelius say?
Unsure what to do next in your career? Struggling to move on from a failed relationship? Searching for more meaning in life?
Marcus Aurelius can tell you how to face your challenges in a more Stoic way.
Simply ask your question, and Marcus Aurelius will answer.
