There’s a clear distinction between being a high value person and just appearing as one. It’s a matter of character, not charisma.
Stoicism, the ancient Greek philosophy, has a lot to say about this. It emphasizes living in harmony with nature and focusing on what we can control, not what we can’t.
Being a high value person according to Stoicism isn’t about wealth or status. It’s about virtue, wisdom, and inner peace.
So, how do you know if you’re one of these high value individuals? Let’s delve into some key signs that you’re living up to the Stoic ideal.
1) You practice the dichotomy of control
A cornerstone of Stoic philosophy is the idea of the Dichotomy of Control. This is the understanding that some things are within your control, while others are not.
As a high value individual, you’ve mastered this Stoic principle. You understand that your thoughts, emotions, and actions are within your control. Everything else – from the weather to other people’s opinions – is not.
You don’t waste energy fretting over things you cannot change. Instead, you focus on what you can control. You take responsibility for your own actions and attitudes, rather than blaming external factors for your circumstances.
Living by this principle is a clear sign of a high value person according to Stoicism. It shows wisdom, resilience, and a strong sense of personal agency. It’s about making the best of what you have, rather than wishing for what you don’t.
2) You find peace in adversity
Stoicism teaches us to stay composed in the face of adversity. This is something I’ve personally experienced and learned from.
A few years ago, I was going through a tough time. I’d lost my job, my relationship was on the rocks, and it seemed like everything was falling apart. I felt overwhelmed and defeated.
But then, I came across Stoicism. It taught me to view adversity not as a disaster, but as an opportunity for growth. Instead of letting my circumstances break me, I decided to let them shape me.
I took control of my reactions and focused on finding solutions rather than dwelling on my problems. I started to see setbacks as stepping stones rather than stumbling blocks.
This shift in perspective made a world of difference. I found peace in the midst of chaos. And today, I’m in a much better place because I chose to confront adversity with courage and wisdom.
Embodying this Stoic principle is another clear sign that you’re a high value person. You don’t let hardships define you; you use them as fuel to become stronger and wiser.
3) You practice mindfulness
Stoicism is often compared to Buddhism, and for good reason. Both philosophies have a strong emphasis on mindfulness. Mindfulness is about being present in the moment, fully aware of your thoughts, feelings, and actions without judgment.
Epictetus, one of the most famous Stoic philosophers, once said: “You are not your body and hair-style, but your capacity for choosing well. If your choices are beautiful, so too will you be.”
This is a powerful statement about the importance of mindfulness in Stoicism. It’s about recognizing that you have the power to choose how you react to everything that happens to you.
As a high value person, you practice mindfulness regularly. You understand that your worth isn’t tied to external factors but to the quality of your choices. You’re aware of your thoughts and actions, and you strive to make decisions that align with your values and principles.
4) You cultivate inner peace
Stoicism teaches that inner peace is achieved not by avoiding difficulties, but by overcoming them. It’s about developing resilience and learning to navigate life’s storms with a calm mind.
As a high value individual, you don’t chase after fleeting pleasures or external validation. Instead, you cultivate inner peace through self-discipline, wisdom, and virtue.
You know that lasting happiness comes from within, not from external circumstances. You understand that life will always have its ups and downs, but your inner peace remains unshaken. You maintain a tranquil mind, regardless of what life throws at you.
This strong inner peace is a clear sign of a high value person according to Stoicism. It reflects a deep understanding of life’s nature and a commitment to personal growth and self-improvement.
5) You strive for virtue above all else
I’ve had my fair share of mistakes and missteps. There were times when I was tempted to compromise my principles for short-term gains. But each time, I found myself coming back to the Stoic principle of virtue.
Stoicism teaches that virtue is the highest good. It’s not about material wealth or social status, but about moral excellence.
As a high value individual, you strive to live a virtuous life. You value honesty, courage, wisdom, and justice above all else. You always try to do what’s right, even when it’s difficult.
This commitment to virtue is a key sign of a high value person according to Stoicism. It shows that you prioritize integrity over convenience and that you’re willing to stand up for your beliefs, regardless of the circumstances.
6) You’re not swayed by external opinions
Stoicism teaches us not to be swayed by the opinions of others. Instead, we should focus on our own actions, thoughts, and choices.
As a high value individual, you don’t let others’ opinions dictate your self-worth or decisions. You don’t seek approval or validation from external sources. Instead, you listen to your own inner compass and stay true to your principles.
This trait is a clear sign of a high value person according to Stoicism. It shows that you have an unwavering belief in yourself and your capabilities. You understand that the only person’s opinion that truly matters is your own.
7) You live in accordance with nature
The ultimate Stoic principle is living in accordance with nature. This doesn’t mean retreating to the woods and abandoning society. Rather, it’s about accepting the natural order of things and living in harmony with the world around us.
As a high value individual, you understand and accept that life is full of change and uncertainty. You don’t resist or fear change but adapt and grow with it.
You also recognize your interconnectedness with other people and the world around you. You strive to live a life that’s not just beneficial for you, but also for others and the environment.
This is the core of being a high value person according to Stoicism. It’s about acknowledging our place in the world and striving to live a life of virtue, wisdom, and harmony.
Final thoughts
At its core, Stoicism is more than just a philosophy; it is a way of life.
It’s about understanding and accepting the natural order of things, focusing on what’s within your control, and striving for virtue, wisdom, and inner peace.
Remember the words of the great Stoic philosopher, Epictetus: “Wealth consists not in having great possessions, but in having few wants.”
Being a high value person according to Stoicism isn’t about material wealth or social status. It’s about embodying these principles in your day-to-day life.
It’s about finding contentment in simplicity, peace in adversity, and growth in every experience.
It’s not an easy path, but it is a fulfilling one. Each small step you take towards embracing these principles brings you closer to becoming a high value individual.
So reflect on these signs. Which ones resonate with you? Which ones challenge you? And most importantly, which ones inspire you to continue on this journey of personal growth and self-improvement?
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.
