Life sucks sometimes.
And it’s not just you, it’s for everyone. We all get stuck in traffic, we all get ripped off by the vending machine, and we all have to deal with that one co-worker who can’t stop talking about their cats.
But some folks seem to roll with life’s punches a bit better than others.
They’re not superhuman or masochistic – they’re Stoics. These are the people who’ve taken a page out of an ancient Greek philosophy book and use it like a badass survival guide for modern life.
Stoicism is about accepting the fact that you can’t control everything that happens to you, but what you can control are your thoughts and reactions. It’s about finding peace within yourself, even when the world around you is going bananas.
In this article, we’re going to break down seven traits that make up these stoicism-practicing champs.
Spoiler alert: these traits don’t just magically appear overnight. They require work, commitment, and sometimes, a whole lot of stubbornness.
But if you’re up for the challenge and ready to stick a philosophical finger up at life’s difficulties, then let’s dive into the world of stoicism.
1) Living in the present
Have you ever wondered why some people seem to be unbothered by the uncertainties of life? The first trait of those who live by stoic principles is their ability to live in the present.
They don’t let the past haunt them, nor do they let the future worry them. They believe in focusing on what they can control – their thoughts, their actions, and their reactions to events.
This trait is deeply rooted in the teachings of Marcus Aurelius, a prominent stoic philosopher and Roman Emperor.
He once wrote, “Each of us lives only in the present, this brief moment; the rest is either a life that is past or is an uncertain future.” (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
Aurelius also emphasized: “In the conviction that it is possible you may depart from life at once, act and speak and think in every case accordingly.” (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
These quotes highlight the essence of living in the present. It’s not about ignoring your past or future but rather understanding that your power lies in the present moment. This mindset allows stoics to focus on what matters most and avoid unnecessary worries about things outside of their control.
Adopting this trait means learning to appreciate every moment as it comes. It means understanding that our time is limited and making conscious choices about how we spend it.
So next time you find yourself dwelling on past regrets or future anxieties, remember to bring yourself back to the present moment – it’s all we truly have.
2) Embracing change and impermanence
Do you find yourself resisting change or fearing the unknown?
The second trait of those who live by stoic principles is their ability to embrace change and understand the concept of impermanence.
Marcus Aurelius once stated, “Nature loves nothing so much as to change what it is and to create new things in their likeness.” (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
This underscores the stoic acceptance of change as a natural part of life. Stoics understand that everything – our circumstances, relationships, and even our own selves – are in constant flux. Instead of resisting this change, they embrace it, viewing it as an opportunity for growth and learning.
This doesn’t mean stoics are emotionless or indifferent to significant changes in their lives. Instead, they learn to adapt, finding strength and resilience in their ability to navigate through life’s uncertainties.
Whether you’re facing a career transition, relationship changes, or personal challenges, remember this stoic principle: Change is inevitable. Embrace it with an open mind and a resilient spirit.
3) Practicing discipline and self-control
Picture this: You’re in a situation that makes your blood boil. You feel the anger bubbling up inside you, ready to explode.
But instead of lashing out, you take a deep breath, calm yourself and respond with composure. This is the third trait of those who live by stoic principles – practicing discipline and self-control.
Marcus Aurelius offers some timeless wisdom on this: “Each hour be minded, valiantly as become a Roman and a man, to do what is to your hand, with precise…and unaffected dignity, natural love, freedom and justice; and give yourself repose from every other imagination.” (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
This demonstrates the importance of discipline and self-control in living a stoic life.
It’s about being able to manage our emotions, actions, and reactions in a way that aligns with our values. It’s about choosing our responses instead of acting on impulse or letting our emotions dictate our actions.
Epictetus, another renowned stoic philosopher, shares similar sentiments: “If you wish to make progress, you must be content in external matters to seem a fool and a simpleton; do not wish men to think you know anything.” (The Discourses of Epictetus , 1916)
Next time you find yourself in a challenging situation, remember this stoic principle:
Discipline and self-control are not about suppressing emotions, but rather about managing them effectively. It’s about responding rather than reacting – a skill that can make all the difference in our personal and professional lives.
4) Practicing mindfulness and reflection
Another trait of stoicism is the practice of mindfulness and regular self-reflection. Stoics believe in taking the time to reflect on their actions, thoughts, and behaviors. This habit helps them stay grounded and maintain a clear perspective on life.
Marcus Aurelius wrote extensively about this practice: “Look well into thyself; there is a source of strength which will always spring up if thou wilt always look.” (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
For the Stoics, introspection is a means of personal growth and resilience. By regularly evaluating their own thoughts and actions, stoics can identify areas for improvement and stay aligned with their core values.
To incorporate this trait into your life, set aside time each day for quiet reflection. Consider keeping a journal to track your thoughts and experiences, and use this practice to gain deeper insights into your behavior and decisions.
5) Cultivating inner strength
Stoics are known for their inner strength and resilience. This trait enables them to face life’s challenges with courage and composure. They recognize that true strength comes from within and that it is their mindset, rather than external circumstances, that determines their well-being.
Seneca, a prominent stoic philosopher, famously stated: “It is not the man who has too little, but the man who craves more, that is poor.” (Letters from a Stoic, 1912)
He also advised: “Difficulties strengthen the mind, as labor does the body.”
Stoics view difficulties as opportunities to build resilience and fortitude. They understand that adversity is a part of life and that overcoming it requires mental toughness.
To build inner strength, practice facing your fears and stepping out of your comfort zone. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and remind yourself that you have the power to overcome whatever life throws your way.
6) Focusing on virtue and ethical living
A key principle of stoicism is the focus on virtue and ethical living. Stoics believe that living a virtuous life is the highest good and that ethical behavior is essential for personal fulfillment and societal harmony.
Marcus Aurelius wrote: “Waste no more time arguing about what a good man should be. Be one.” (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
Stoics strive to act with integrity, honesty, and fairness in all aspects of their lives. They believe that living according to their values is essential for achieving inner peace and contentment.
Epictetus echoed this sentiment: “First say to yourself what you would be; and then do what you have to do.” (The Discourses of Epictetus, 1916)
To adopt this trait, focus on aligning your actions with your values. Make ethical choices, treat others with respect, and strive to be a positive force in your community.
7) Accepting mortality
The final trait of stoicism is the acceptance of mortality. Stoics understand that life is finite and that death is a natural part of the human experience. This awareness helps them live more fully and with greater appreciation for the present moment.
Marcus Aurelius reflected on mortality: “You could leave life right now. Let that determine what you do and say and think.” (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
Seneca also addressed this theme: “Let us prepare our minds as if we’d come to the very end of life. Let us postpone nothing. Let us balance life’s books each day.” (Letters from a Stoic, 1912)
Seen this way, recognizing the fact of death can help you improve your life.. By acknowledging the inevitability of death, stoics are motivated to make the most of their time and live with purpose.
To embrace this trait, remind yourself regularly of the impermanence of life. Use this awareness to prioritize what truly matters and to live each day with intention and gratitude.
Stoicism offers a powerful framework for navigating life’s challenges and finding inner peace.
By adopting these seven traits – living in the present, embracing change, practicing discipline, engaging in mindfulness, cultivating inner strength, focusing on virtue, and accepting mortality – you can develop the resilience and wisdom to thrive in any situation.
The next time life throws you a curveball, channel your inner stoic and face it with grace and composure.
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.
