What’s the difference between simply living life and living a life aligned with Stoic principles?
It all boils down to perspective.
Living a superficial life is like being swept along by the current, with little thought to where you’re headed.
Adopting a Stoic lifestyle, however, is about consciously steering your own ship, keeping calm amidst the stormy seas of life.
Living as a Stoic is all about embracing tranquility, understanding what you can control, and letting go of what you can’t. And savvy individuals are aware there are telltale signs indicating they’ve successfully integrated these principles into their lives.
So, let’s dive into eight signs you’re finally living in harmony with Stoic principles.
1) Embracing tranquility
Living a Stoic life begins with the cultivation of tranquility.
Stoics view tranquility as the ultimate state of mind, a place where stress, worry, and anxiety cannot touch you.
It’s not about being emotionless, but rather about managing your emotions in a way that they don’t control you.
Now, tranquility doesn’t mean you’re constantly in a zen-like state. It’s about finding inner peace amidst chaos, maintaining composure even when things go wrong.
Think about it.
It’s the calmness you feel when you accept that certain things are outside your control. The serenity you experience when you stop worrying about what others think of you.
When you start embodying tranquility in your daily life, that’s a clear indication you’re living in alignment with Stoic principles.
2) Letting go of what I can’t control
The second sign of living a Stoic life is learning to let go of things that are beyond our control.
I remember a time when I used to get worked up over traffic. It was a daily source of stress and frustration, until one day, I realized it was something I simply couldn’t control.
No amount of anger or worry would clear the roads or make the cars move faster. So, I decided to let go.
Instead of fretting, I started using that time to listen to audiobooks or simply enjoy some quiet reflection.
That shift in perspective changed everything. It was a liberating feeling, like a weight lifted off my shoulders.
So if you find yourself letting go of things you can’t control instead of getting anxious or upset, that’s another sign you’re aligning your life with Stoic principles. This acceptance can bring an incredible sense of peace and calmness into your life.
3) Stoic indifference
In Stoic philosophy, there’s a concept known as “Stoic Indifference.”
It’s not about being cold or uncaring, but rather about understanding that everything outside of our control is neither good nor bad. It simply is.
Historically, many great leaders and thinkers have subscribed to this idea.
Marcus Aurelius, a Roman Emperor and well-known Stoic philosopher, often spoke about this in his meditations. He believed that our reactions to events are more important than the events themselves.
If you find yourself adopting a similar mindset, not getting too attached to things or outcomes you can’t control, that’s another sign you’re living in alignment with Stoic principles.
This level of indifference isn’t apathy; it’s a powerful tool for maintaining your peace of mind in a chaotic world.
4) Practicing mindfulness
Stoicism and mindfulness go hand in hand. Being present in the moment, fully aware of your thoughts, feelings, and actions is a core Stoic practice.
It’s about taking a step back and observing your thoughts without judgment. It’s about paying attention to the here and now, instead of dwelling on the past or worrying about the future.
If you find yourself practicing mindfulness regularly, if you’re more aware of your thoughts and reactions, that’s another sign that you’re living in alignment with Stoic principles.
It’s through this self-awareness that we can achieve greater control over our responses to life’s ups and downs.
5) Finding contentment in simplicity
There’s something incredibly profound about the simplicity of Stoic living. It’s not about having less, but about wanting less.
This doesn’t mean Stoics reject all forms of pleasure or enjoyment.
Rather, it’s a conscious decision to find joy and contentment in the simple things, in the everyday moments.
If you notice yourself feeling genuinely satisfied with what you have, taking pleasure in the small things – a good book, a warm cup of tea, a heartfelt conversation – then that’s another sign you’re aligning with Stoic principles.
Living a Stoic life is about understanding that true happiness doesn’t come from material possessions or external achievements, but from within. And there’s something truly beautiful about that.
6) Acceptance of impermanence
One lesson Stoicism has taught me is the acceptance of life’s impermanence. Everything changes, nothing lasts forever – not the good times, nor the bad.
I remember when I lost a job I was passionate about. It felt like the end of the world.
But instead of wallowing in despair, I reminded myself of this Stoic principle. It helped me accept the situation and move forward.
If you find yourself accepting change, understanding that it’s a part of life, and not letting it disrupt your inner peace, then you’re undoubtedly living a life aligned with Stoic principles.
This acceptance can be a powerful tool to navigate through life’s inevitable ups and downs.
7) Valuing virtue over material wealth
Stoicism places a great deal of importance on virtues such as wisdom, courage, justice, and temperance. These are seen as the true measures of a person’s worth, not material possessions or social status.
If you find yourself prioritizing these virtues over material wealth and societal validation, that’s another sign you’re living in alignment with Stoic principles.
It’s about understanding that genuine fulfillment and happiness come from within, from being a good person and living a life of virtue, not from external achievements or possessions.
8) Embracing the power of perspective
Perhaps the most powerful aspect of Stoic philosophy is the importance it places on perspective.
The way we perceive events and situations in our lives can drastically affect our emotional response to them.
Are you’re consistently viewing challenges as opportunities for growth, focusing on solutions rather than problems, and understanding that your reaction matters more than the event itself? If so, you’re truly embodying Stoic principles.
This power of perspective can transform your life, turning obstacles into stepping stones and making you a more resilient and composed individual.
Final thoughts: A path of inner peace
Stoic philosophy is more than just a set of principles; it’s a way of life.
It’s about finding inner peace in a chaotic world, about understanding what’s truly important and what isn’t. It’s about embracing the present moment, accepting the impermanence of life, and valuing virtue over material wealth.
If you find yourself resonating with these principles, if you see these signs reflected in your life, then you’re well on your way to living a life aligned with Stoic philosophy.
Related Stories from The Stoic Mindset
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.