Stoicism

A guide to a better life

What is Stoicism?

Ancient Greek philosophy founded by Zeno of Citium (3rd century BC). It goal is to have a virtuous and tranquil life through rational control of thoughts and actions.

Focuses on:

• Control and Acceptance
• Living Virtuously
• Mindfulness and Perspective
• Harmony with Nature

Core Principles of Stoicism

1. Control and Acceptance:
   Focus on what you can control (thoughts, actions) and accept what you cannot (external).

2. Living Virtuously:
   • Wisdom: Practical judgment.
   • Courage: Facing fears with strength.
   • Temperance: Practicing moderation.
   • Justice: Treating others fairly.

3. Mindfullness and Perspective
   It tries to introduce the practice of being fully aware of your thoughts, emotions, and actions in the present moment.

   It also encourages the ability to view situations from a broader, rational standpoint rather than being consumed by immediate emotions or judgments.

4. Harmony with Nature

• Living in harmony means accepting the flow of events, both good and bad, as part of this larger order.

• Stoics emphasize living in harmony not only with nature but also with others, fostering mutual support and cooperation.

• Avoid excess and live in a way that aligns with your true needs and values, rather than societal pressures or superficial desires.

Stoic Practices

  * Negative Visualization (Premeditatio Malorum)
  * Dichotomy of Control
  * Mindful Reflection (Evening Reflection)
  * Voluntary Discomfort
  * Memento Mori (Remember you will die)
  * Practice Gratitude
  * Self-Discipline (Self-Control)
  * Eudaimonia (Flourishing)
  * Stoic Journaling
  * Practice Compassion and Empathy
  * Self-Awareness and Avoiding Ego
  * Focus on the Present

How Stoicism Handles Emotions

1. Emotions as Natural:
   Feeling emotions like fear or sadness is human. Stoics aim to prevent impulsive reactions, not deny emotions.

2. Transforming Perception:
   Emotions arise from judgments. Reframe events (e.g., a challenge instead of failure) to change emotional responses.

3. Moderation Over Suppression:
   Healthy expression is encouraged (e.g., grief is natural but should not consume you). The goal is balance, not denial.

“It’s not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters.”
– Epictetus

Conclusion

• Stoicism teaches us to master our emotions, focus on virtue, and accept life’s challenges.
• Its practical tools help us live a resilient and fulfilling life.
• “The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts.” – Marcus Aurelius

Resources

Books

  * “Meditations” by Marcus Aurelius
  * “Letters from a Stoic” by Seneca
  * “Discourses and Selected Writings” by Epictetus
  * “The Obstacle Is the Way” by Ryan Holiday
  * “Daily Stoic” by Ryan Holiday and Stephen Hanselman

Popular books on Goodreads

Websites

  * Daily Stoic
  * Modern Stoicism
  * The Stoic Fellowship
  * Stoicism Today

Podcasts

  “The Daily Stoic Podcast” by Ryan Holiday
  “Stoic Meditations” by Massimo Pigliucci
  “The Practical Stoic Podcast” by Simon Drew

Courses

  Stoic Week
  The College of Stoic Philosophers
  Stoicism 101 by Donald Robertson