Stoic Wisdom: Understanding and Living by Ancient Principles 1

Stoic Wisdom: Understanding and Living by Ancient Principles

Unlock the timeless wisdom of Stoicism and discover how its ancient principles can guide

your modern life toward tranquillity, resilience, and fulfilment.

Stoic Wisdom: Understanding and Living by Ancient Principles 2

An introduction to stoicism

For those of us who live our lives in the real world, there is one branch of philosophy

created just for us: Stoicism. It’s a philosophy designed to make us more resilient, happier,

more virtuous and wiser–and as a result, better people, better parents and better professionals.

Stoicism has been a common thread through some of history’s great leaders. It has

been practiced by Kings, presidents, artists, writers, and entrepreneurs. Marcus Aurelius.

Frederick the Great, Montaigne, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Adam Smith, John

Stuart Mill, Theodore Roosevelt, and General James Mattis, —just to name a few—were all

influenced by Stoic philosophy.

So what is Stoicism? Who were the Stoics? How can you be a Stoic? We answer all

your questions and more below.

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What Is Stoicism?

Stoicism is an ancient philosophy that originated in Greece and flourished in Rome,

gaining popularity as a practical guide to living a good life. At its core, Stoicism teaches

principles of self-discipline, resilience, and virtue. The Stoics believed in focusing on what is

within our control and accepting what is not, emphasizing the importance of maintaining

inner peace and tranquillity amidst the chaos of the external world.

Central to Stoic teachings are the four cardinal virtues: wisdom, courage, justice, and

temperance. These virtues serve as guiding principles for ethical living, shaping one's actions

and decisions. Stoicism encourages individuals to cultivate a mindset of rationality and

virtue, striving to align their actions with these principles to achieve eudaimonia, or

flourishing.

One key aspect of Stoicism is the practice of negative visualization, which involves

contemplating worst-case scenarios to prepare oneself mentally and emotionally for

adversity. By embracing the inevitability of challenges and setbacks, Stoics aim to develop

resilience and equanimity in the face of adversity.

Another fundamental concept in Stoicism is the dichotomy of control, distinguishing

between things we can control (our thoughts, attitudes, and actions) and things we cannot

control (external events, other people's actions). By focusing on what is within their power

and accepting the rest with equanimity, Stoics aim to free themselves from unnecessary

anxiety and suffering.

Stoicism also emphasizes the importance of living in accordance with nature, aligning

one's actions with the natural order of the universe. This involves cultivating a sense of

gratitude for the present moment, accepting the impermanence of life, and recognizing the

interconnectedness of all beings.

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Overall, Stoicism provides a practical framework for navigating life's challenges with

resilience, wisdom, and virtue. It encourages individuals to cultivate inner strength, develop a

sense of purpose, and lead a life of meaning and fulfilment, regardless of external

circumstances.
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Who were the stoic philosophers?

The Stoic philosophers, including Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and Epictetus,

exemplified Stoic principles through their lives and teachings.

Marcus Aurelius

Marcus Aurelius, as Emperor of Rome, exemplified Stoic principles through his

actions and leadership. Despite holding the most powerful position in the Roman Empire,

Marcus maintained a humble and virtuous demeanour, prioritizing duty and moral integrity

over personal gain or prestige. He demonstrated Stoic resilience in the face of adversity,

enduring the challenges of war, political intrigue, and the pressures of ruling an expansive

empire with grace and fortitude.

One of Marcus Aurelius's defining characteristics as a Stoic was his indifference to

external opinions and criticism. Despite being the most powerful man in Rome, he remained

unaffected by flattery or praise, recognizing the fleeting nature of public acclaim. Instead,

Marcus focused on internal virtues and ethical conduct, valuing integrity, and moral

righteousness above public perception.

Throughout his reign, Marcus emphasized the Stoic principle of "living according to

nature," aligning his actions with reason and virtue rather than succumbing to base desires or

external pressures. He practiced self-discipline and moderation, eschewing extravagance, and

luxury in favour of simplicity and frugality.

Marcus's commitment to Stoicism is perhaps most evident in his private writings,

known as the "Meditations." In these reflections, Marcus grappled with philosophical

concepts such as the dichotomy of control, accepting the inevitability of death, and finding

contentment in the present moment. He used Stoic principles as a guide for personal growth

and moral development, striving to cultivate inner peace and tranquillity amidst the chaos of

his duties as emperor.

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Seneca

Seneca the Younger's embodiment of Stoicism transcends mere philosophical

adherence; it permeated every facet of his life, shaping his actions, writings, and personal

character. His resilience in the face of adversity stands as a hallmark of Stoic virtue. Despite

enduring exile twice, Seneca approached these periods not with resentment or despair, but as

opportunities for profound philosophical introspection and personal growth. Rather than

allowing his circumstances to define him, he used them as platforms for deeper understanding

and self-improvement.

Throughout his life, Seneca exemplified Stoic principles through his emphasis on

living a virtuous and morally upright existence. He advocated for moderation and simplicity,

eschewing the trappings of wealth and luxury in favour of inner contentment and tranquillity.

Despite his considerable wealth and status, Seneca lived modestly, valuing integrity and

ethical conduct above material possessions. His writings reflect this commitment to virtue,

urging readers to cultivate virtues such as courage, wisdom, justice, and temperance in their

own lives.

Furthermore, Seneca's acceptance of fate and the transient nature of life underscored

his Stoic worldview. He recognized the inevitability of death and the impermanence of

human existence, urging individuals to embrace each moment with mindfulness and

appreciation. Seneca's philosophy of "amor fati" (love of fate) encouraged individuals to find

meaning and purpose in life's inevitable challenges and uncertainties, cultivating resilience

and equanimity in the face of adversity.

Despite his own personal struggles, Seneca remained steadfast in his commitment to

serving humanity and promoting the common good. As a philosopher, statesman, and advisor

to the emperor, he used his influence for the betterment of society, advocating for justice,

compassion, and social reform. Seneca viewed his role as a philosopher not merely as an
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intellectual pursuit but as a moral obligation to uplift and inspire others to live virtuously and

with purpose.

In essence, Seneca's life serves as a profound embodiment of Stoic principles,

offering timeless wisdom and guidance for individuals seeking to navigate life's challenges

with resilience, integrity, and moral clarity. His enduring legacy continues to inspire

generations, serving as a beacon of light for those striving to live a meaningful and virtuous

life in alignment with Stoic philosophy.

Epictetus

Epictetus, born into slavery and later freed, epitomized Stoic philosophy through his

life experiences and teachings. Despite enduring the hardships of slavery, including physical

abuse by his master, Epictetus maintained an unwavering commitment to Stoic principles,

particularly the concept of "living according to nature."

Later Christian writers recount the brutal treatment Epictetus endured, with his master

being described as violent and depraved. One particularly harrowing incident involved his

master twisting Epictetus's leg with all his might, resulting in a permanent limp. Despite the

pain and suffering inflicted upon him, Epictetus responded with remarkable Stoic composure.

He calmly warned his master against going too far and, when the leg snapped, he made no

sound or tears. Instead, he smiled and remarked, "Didn’t I warn you?"

For the rest of his life, Epictetus would walk with a limp, but he remained unbroken

by the incident. He viewed his disability not as a hindrance to his will, but merely as a

physical impairment. This perspective encapsulated the core of his philosophical beliefs,

emphasizing the power of choice and resilience in the face of adversity. Epictetus saw life as

a theatrical performance, where individuals are assigned roles by fate, but have the freedom

to choose how they act within those roles. He urged his students to embrace their
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circumstances and "act well the character assigned you," recognizing that true freedom lies in

accepting and embracing one's fate.

Epictetus's teachings continue to resonate today, offering timeless wisdom and

guidance for individuals seeking to live a life of meaning and purpose. His emphasis on

resilience, virtue, and acceptance of fate serves as a beacon of inspiration for those striving to

navigate life's challenges with grace and fortitude. In essence, Epictetus's life exemplifies the

transformative power of Stoic philosophy, demonstrating that true freedom and inner peace

can be found even in the most challenging circumstances.

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What Are The 4 Virtues of Stoicism?

Courage.

Temperance.

Justice.

Wisdom.

They are the most essential values in Stoic philosophy. “If, at some point in your life,”

Marcus Aurelius wrote, “you should come across anything better than justice, truth, self-

control, courage—it must be an extraordinary thing indeed.” That was almost twenty

centuries ago. We have discovered a lot of things since then—automobiles, the Internet, cures

for diseases that were previously a death sentence—but have we found anything better?

…than being brave

…than moderation and sobriety

…than doing what’s right

…than truth and understanding?

No, we have not. It’s unlikely we ever will. Everything we face in life is an

opportunity to respond with these four traits:

Courage

Courage, a cornerstone of Stoic philosophy, is more than just bravado or fearlessness

in the face of danger. It's about confronting challenges with inner strength and resilience,

regardless of external circumstances. Seneca's perspective on courage transcends mere

physical bravery; it encompasses the willingness to face adversity and hardship with moral

integrity and fortitude.

In Seneca's eyes, experiencing misfortune and adversity is essential for personal

growth and self-discovery. He famously remarked that he pitied those who had never faced

challenges in life, for they had never truly tested their own capabilities. Seneca believed that
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adversity was not only inevitable but necessary for understanding one's true potential. "You

have passed through life without an opponent," he said. "No one can ever know what you are

capable of, not even you."

Instead of shying away from difficulties, Stoics embrace them as opportunities for

growth and self-improvement. Courage, for the Stoics, is about taking action in alignment

with one's principles and values, even in the face of uncertainty or fear. It's about standing up

for what is right and just, regardless of the consequences. This kind of courage requires not

only physical bravery but also moral conviction and steadfastness.

Moreover, courage plays a crucial role in living a life of virtue and excellence. By

cultivating courage, individuals can overcome obstacles and setbacks, pursuing their goals

and aspirations with determination and resilience. In doing so, they embody the Stoic ideal of

living in accordance with nature, aligning their actions with reason and virtue.

Ultimately, courage is the foundation upon which all other virtues are built. It

empowers individuals to face life's challenges with grace and dignity, guiding them on the

path to fulfilment and eudaimonia (flourishing). For the Stoics, courage is not just a desirable

trait; it's an essential component of living a life worth living—a testament to one's inner

strength and moral character.

Temperance

Temperance, or moderation, is another fundamental virtue in Stoic philosophy,

complementing the importance of courage. While courage is undoubtedly essential, Stoics

recognize the pitfalls of excessive bravery, which can often lead to recklessness and

endangerment of oneself and others.

Aristotle's concept of the "Golden Mean" provides valuable insight into the virtue of

temperance. He likened courage to a spectrum, with cowardice on one end and recklessness
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on the other. The key, Aristotle argued, lies in finding the golden mean—a balanced approach

that avoids extremes and embraces moderation.

For Stoics, temperance is about doing nothing in excess and cultivating habits of

virtuous living. Epictetus emphasized the importance of habitual actions in shaping one's

character and capabilities. He believed that excellence is not merely an isolated act but a way

of life rooted in consistent habits and behaviours.

In essence, temperance encourages individuals to cultivate the right habits and

processes in their daily lives, paving the way for happiness, success, and greatness. By

making small adjustments and implementing effective systems, individuals can achieve

impressive results without relying on herculean effort or magic formulas. Temperance,

therefore, serves as a foundational principle in Stoic philosophy, guiding individuals toward a

life of virtue, excellence, and fulfilment.

It's about finding the right balance in all things—doing neither too much nor too little.

Temperance encourages individuals to avoid extremes and excesses, whether it be in

actions, emotions, or desires. It's about exercising self-control and discipline in all aspects of

life, cultivating habits of virtuous living while avoiding overindulgence or recklessness.

Justice

Justice, the cornerstone of Stoic virtue, holds unparalleled significance in Stoic

philosophy. While bravery and temperance are esteemed virtues, they pale in comparison to

the reverence Stoics hold for doing what is right.

Marcus Aurelius, a Stoic emperor, proclaimed justice as "the source of all the other

virtues," recognizing its profound influence on human conduct and morality. Throughout

history, Stoics have championed justice, often at great personal risk, to defend cherished

ideals and principles.

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Figures like Cato, Thrasea, and Agrippinus sacrificed their lives in the pursuit of

justice, resisting tyranny and oppression. Their courageous acts inspired generations of Stoics

to uphold justice in the face of adversity.

Even in the realm of politics and activism, Stoicism has served as a guiding

philosophy for individuals striving to make a difference. From George Washington and

Thomas Jefferson founding a new nation based on democratic principles to modern activists

like Beatrice Webb and James Baldwin, Stoics have wielded their principles to combat

injustice and advocate for positive change.

Stoicism teaches that acceptance of life's realities, including injustice, is essential for

maintaining inner peace. However, this acceptance does not equate to complacency. Stoics

understand the imperative to fight against injustice with unwavering resolve and strength.

Wisdom

Wisdom, the final and essential virtue in Stoic philosophy, serves as the guiding light

in navigating life's complexities. While courage, temperance, and justice are critical virtues, it

is wisdom that illuminates the path forward, helping individuals discern the right actions and

decisions in any given situation.

The Stoics placed great value on wisdom, recognizing it as the culmination of

learning, experience, and discernment. Zeno, the founder of Stoicism, emphasized the

importance of listening and observing, suggesting that we have been endowed with two ears

and two eyes to absorb knowledge more than we speak.

In today's world, where information abounds, distinguishing between mere data and

true wisdom is paramount. Epictetus cautioned against the arrogance of assuming one already

knows everything, highlighting the importance of humility and openness to learning. True

wisdom, he suggested, lies not in accumulating information but in absorbing the right kind of

knowledge that enriches our understanding of life.

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It’s key that we study, that we keep our minds open always. "You cannot learn that

which you think you already know," Epictetus said. It’s true.

To cultivate wisdom, Stoics advocate for continuous learning and seeking out great

teachers. It involves not only reading widely but also critically evaluating the information

presented to us, filtering out the noise to uncover the valuable insights that guide virtuous

living.

The goal of wisdom is not merely to accumulate knowledge but to apply it in our

daily lives, drawing lessons from ancient wisdom texts like "Meditations" and the teachings

of Stoic philosophers like Epictetus and James Stockdale. By embracing the virtue of

wisdom, individuals honour the Stoic tradition of lifelong learning, remaining humble

students of life and acting with deliberate discernment in all endeavours.

Two eyes, two ears, one mouth. Remain a student. Act accordingly—and wisely.
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How To Be a Stoic: 9 Stoic Exercises to Get You Started

1. The Dichotomy of Control

The single most important practice in Stoic philosophy is differentiating between

what we can change and what we cannot. What we have influence over and what we do not.

A flight is delayed because of weather— no amount of yelling at an airline representative will

end a storm. No amount of wishing will make you taller or shorter or born in a different

country. No matter how hard you try, you cannot make someone like you. And on top of that,

time spent hurling yourself at these immovable objects is time not spent on the things we can

change.

Return to this question daily—in each and every trying situation. Journal and reflect

on it constantly. If you can focus on making clear what parts of your day are within your

control and what parts are not, you will not only be happier, but you will also have a distinct

advantage over other people who fail to realize they are fighting an unwinnable battle.

2. Journal

Epictetus the slave. Marcus Aurelius the emperor. Seneca the power broker and

playwright. These three radically different men led radically different lives. But they seemed

to have one habit in common: Journaling.

It would be Epictetus who would admonish his students that philosophy was

something they should “write down day by day,” that this writing was how they “should

exercise themselves.” Seneca’s favourite time to journal was in the evenings. When darkness

had fallen and his wife had gone asleep, he explained to a friend, “I examine my entire day

and go back over what I’ve done and said, hiding nothing from myself, passing nothing by.”

Then he would go to bed, finding that “the sleep which follows this self-examination” was

particularly sweet. And Marcus, he was the most prodigious of journalers, and we are lucky
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enough that his writings survive to us, appropriately titled, Τὰ εἰς ἑαυτόν, Ta eis heauton, or

“to himself.”

In Stoicism the art of journaling is more than some simple diary. This daily practice is

the philosophy. Preparing for the day ahead. Reflecting on the day that has passed.

Reminding oneself of the wisdom we have learned from our teachers, from our reading, from

our own experiences. It’s not enough to hear these lessons once, instead, one practices them

over and over again, turns them over in their mind, and most importantly, writes them down

and feels them flowing through their fingers in doing so.

Stoicism is designed to be a practice and a routine. It’s not a philosophy you read

once and magically understand at the soul-level. No, it’s a lifelong pursuit that requires

diligence and repetition and concentration. (Pierre Hadot called it spiritual exercising). That’s

one of the benefits of the page-a-day (with monthly themes) format we organized the Stoics

into (and the weekly themes in The Daily Stoic Journal). It’s putting one thing up for you to

review—to have at hand—and to fully digest. Not in passing. Not just once. But every single

day over the course of a year, and preferably year in and year out. And if Epictetus is right,

it’s something you’re supposed to keep within reach at all times—which is why a collection

of the greatest hits, presented daily, was so appealing to us.

In this way, journaling is Stoicism. It’s almost impossible to have one without the

other.

Here is what you should include in your journal:

1. Daily Reflections: Begin by reflecting on your day, focusing on events, interactions,

and your reactions to them. Consider what went well and what challenges you faced.

2. Gratitude: Write down things you are grateful for each day. This practice can help

shift your focus from what you lack to what you have, fostering contentment and

resilience.
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3. Stoic Principles: Incorporate stoic principles into your journaling. Reflect on concepts

like virtue, acceptance of the present moment, and the distinction between what is

within your control and what is not.

4. Challenges and Obstacles: Document any difficulties you encountered during the day

and how you responded to them. Consider whether your reactions aligned with stoic

principles and identify areas for growth.

5. Goals and Intentions: Set daily or weekly goals aligned with your values and

aspirations. Reflect on your progress and any adjustments you need to make to stay on

course.

6. Self-Examination: Engage in honest self-assessment, acknowledging your strengths

and weaknesses. Identify areas where you can improve and commit to personal

growth.

7. Quotes and Passages: Include quotes from stoic philosophers like Epictetus, Seneca,

and Marcus Aurelius that resonate with you. Reflect on their wisdom and how it

applies to your own life.

8. Mindfulness and Meditation: Record your experiences with mindfulness and

meditation practices. Note any insights or observations that arise during these

contemplative exercises.

9. Emotional Regulation: Explore your emotions and how they influence your thoughts

and behaviours. Practice techniques for regulating emotions, such as reframing

negative thoughts or practicing detachment.

10. Lessons Learned: Summarize the key lessons you learned each day and how you plan

to apply them moving forward. This can help reinforce your commitment to stoic

principles and continuous improvement.

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3. Practice Misfortune

Seneca, who enjoyed great wealth as the adviser of Nero, suggested that we ought to

set aside a certain number of days each month to practice poverty. Take a little food, wear

your worst clothes, get away from the comfort of your home and bed. Put yourself face to

face with want, he said, you will ask yourself “Is this what I used to dread?”

It’s important to remember that this is an exercise and not a rhetorical device. He does

not mean “think about” misfortune, he means live it. Comfort is the worst kind of slavery

because you are always afraid that something or someone will take it away. But if you cannot

just anticipate but practice misfortune, then chance loses its ability to disrupt your life.

Emotions like anxiety and fear have their roots in uncertainty and rarely in

experience. Anyone who has made a big bet on themselves knows how much energy both

states can consume. The solution is to do something about that ignorance. Make yourself

familiar with the things, the worst-case scenarios, that you are afraid of.

It's not about doing the extremes like living like a homeless person; it's about

practicing what you fear, whether a simulation in your mind or in real life. The downside is

almost always reversible or transient.

4. Train Perceptions

“Choose not to be harmed and you won’t feel harmed. Don’t feel harmed and you

haven’t been.” — Marcus Aurelius

The Stoics had an exercise called Turning the Obstacle Upside Down. What they

meant to do was make it impossible to not practice the art of philosophy. Because if you can

properly turn a problem upside down, every “bad” becomes a new source of good.

Suppose for a second that you are trying to help someone, and they respond by being

surly or unwilling to cooperate. Instead of making your life more difficult, the exercise says,
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they’re actually directing you towards new virtues; for example, patience or understanding.

Or, the death of someone close to you; a chance to show fortitude.

So it's about learning lessons from negative experiences. It's about transforming

challenges into opportunities for personal growth and virtue. By reframing obstacles as

chances to cultivate patience, understanding, or fortitude, individuals can embrace adversity

as a pathway to wisdom and resilience, ultimately shaping their perceptions to see every

situation as an opportunity for growth.

It's about how you perceive situations. Instead of viewing setbacks or difficulties as

inherently negative, the exercise prompts individuals to adopt a mindset that sees every

obstacle as a potential opportunity for learning, growth, and self-improvement. By shifting

their perspective and reframing challenges in this way, Stoics cultivate resilience, wisdom,

and a sense of empowerment in the face of adversity.

Marcus Aurelius described it like this:

“The impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the

way.”

The common refrain about entrepreneurs is that they take advantage of, even create,

opportunities. To the Stoic, everything is opportunity. The Reverend Wright scandal, a

frustrating case where your help goes unappreciated, the death of a loved one, none of those

are “opportunities” in the normal sense of the word. In fact, they are the opposite. They are

obstacles. What a Stoic does is turn every obstacle into an opportunity.

There is no good or bad to the practicing Stoic. There is only perception. You control

perception. You can choose to extrapolate past your first impression (‘X happened.’ –> ‘X

happened and now my life is over.’). If you tie your first response to dispassion, you’ll find

that everything is simply an opportunity.

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5. Remember—It’s All Ephemeral

Stoics are encouraged to meditate on the impermanence of life and the fleeting nature

of worldly achievements. This practice is exemplified by a poignant reminder from Marcus

Aurelius, who observed that both Alexander the Great and his mule driver met the same fate

in death, emphasizing the universal inevitability of mortality.

Marcus Aurelius further advised himself to reflect on the transience of human

emotions, particularly intense anger, which often arises from irrational and excessive desires.

Stoics distinguish between unhealthy passions, or patheiai, such as anger, and healthier

emotions, or eupatheiai, like joy derived from virtuous actions.

The central message of this exercise is to contemplate the fleeting nature of human

existence and material possessions. By recognizing the ephemeral nature of achievements and

possessions, individuals gain perspective on what truly matters in life. The Stoics advocate

for focusing on the present moment and prioritizing virtues like humility, honesty, and self-

awareness over fleeting worldly success.

An illustrative example from history is provided by Alexander the Great, whose

conquests and triumphs are well-documented. However, the Stoics also highlight a lesser-

known incident where Alexander accidentally killed his dearest friend, Cleitus, during a

drunken altercation. This sobering event serves as a reminder of the fragility of human

relationships and the potential consequences of losing perspective amidst worldly pursuits.

Ultimately, the "Remember—It’s All Ephemeral" exercise encourages individuals to

embrace humility, honesty, and self-awareness as enduring virtues that transcend the transient

nature of worldly achievements. By focusing on the present moment and cultivating inner

qualities that contribute to personal growth and moral integrity, Stoics seek to lead

meaningful and fulfilling lives, free from the fleeting allure of external accolades and

possessions.
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To embrace the lesson of "Remember—It’s All Ephemeral," you can practice daily

mindfulness and reflection. For example, take a few moments each day to contemplate the

impermanence of life and the transient nature of worldly achievements. You can remind

yourself that material possessions, career successes, and even personal relationships are

temporary in the grand scheme of things.

Additionally, whenever you encounter setbacks or disappointments, try to maintain

perspective by reminding yourself that these experiences, too, shall pass. Instead of dwelling

on negative emotions or clinging to fleeting desires, focus on the present moment and

prioritize inner qualities like kindness, compassion, and integrity.

6. Take The View from Above

Marcus would often practice an exercise that is referred to as “taking the view from

above” or “Plato’s view.” It invites us to take a step back, zoom out and see life from a higher

vantage point than our own. This exercise—envisioning all the millions and millions of

people, all the “armies, farms, weddings and divorces, births and deaths”—prompts us to take

perspective and just like the previous exercise, remind us how small we are. It reorients us,

and as Stoic scholar Pierre Hadot put it, “The view from above changes our value judgments

on things: luxury, power, war…and the worries of everyday life become ridiculous.”

Seeing how small we are in the grand scheme of things is only one portion of this

exercise. The second, more subtle point, is to tap into what the Stoics call sympatheia, or a

mutual interdependence with the whole of humanity. As the astronaut Edgar Mitchell, one of

the first people to actually experience a real ‘view from above’ put it, “In outer space you

develop an instant global consciousness, a people orientation, an intense dissatisfaction with

the state of the world, and a compulsion to do something about it.” Take a step back from

your own concerns and remind yourself of your duty to others. Take Plato’s view.
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A more modern way to look at this exercise is to remember the quotes: "If you look at

the big picture, you start losing your focus on the little things that don't matter." And "Only

when looking at the big picture can we truly see and understand what's going on."

7. Memento Mori: Meditate On Your Mortality

“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. … The one who puts the finishing touches on

their life each day is never short of time.” – Seneca

The quote from Seneca above takes part of Memento Mori—the ancient practice of

reflection on mortality that goes back to Socrates, who said that the proper practice of

philosophy is “about nothing else but dying and being dead.” In his Meditations, Marcus

Aurelius wrote that “You could leave life right now. Let that determine what you do and say

and think.” That was a personal reminder to continue living a life of virtue now, and not wait.

Meditating on your mortality is only depressing if you miss the point. It is in fact a

tool to create priority and meaning. It’s a tool that generations have used to create real

perspective and urgency. To treat our time as a gift and not waste it on the trivial and vain.

Death doesn’t make life pointless but rather purposeful. And fortunately, we don’t have to

nearly die to tap into this. A simple reminder can bring us closer to living the life we want. It

doesn’t matter who you are or how many things you have left to be done, a car can hit you in

an intersection and drive your teeth back into your skull. That’s it. It could all be over. Today,

tomorrow, someday soon.

Use those reminders and meditate on them daily—let them be the building blocks of

living your life to the fullest and not wasting a second.

8. Premeditatio Malorum

“What is quite unlooked for is more crushing in its effect, and unexpectedness adds to

the weight of a disaster. This is a reason for ensuring that nothing ever takes us by surprise.
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We should project our thoughts ahead of us at every turn and have in mind every possible

eventuality instead of only the usual course of events… Rehearse them in your mind: exile,

torture, war, shipwreck. All the terms of our human lot should be before our eyes.” —

Seneca

The premeditatio malorum (“the pre-meditation of evils”) is a Stoic exercise of

imagining things that could go wrong or be taken away from us. It helps us prepare for life’s

inevitable setbacks. We don’t always get what is rightfully ours, even if we’ve earned it. Not

everything is as clean and straightforward as we think they may be. Psychologically, we must

prepare ourselves for this to happen. It is one of the most powerful exercise in the Stoics’

toolkit to build resilience and strength.

Seneca, for instance, would begin by reviewing or rehearsing his plans, say, to take a

trip. And then, in his head (or in journaling as we said above), he would go over the things

that could go wrong or prevent it from happening—a storm could arise, the captain could fall

ill, the ship could be attacked by pirates.

“Nothing happens to the wise man against his expectation,” he wrote to a friend. “. . .

nor do all things turn out for him as he wished but as he reckoned—and above all he

reckoned that something could block his plans.”

By doing this exercise, Seneca was always prepared for disruption and always

working that disruption into his plans. He was fitted for defeat or victory.

Premeditatio Malorum can be summarized by this quote: "Expect the unexpected."

9. Amor Fati

“To love only what happens, what was destined. No greater harmony.” — Marcus

Aurelius

The great German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche would describe his formula for

human greatness as amor fati—a love of fate. “That one wants nothing to be different, not
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forward, not backwards, not in all eternity. Not merely bear what is necessary, still less

conceal it….but love it.”

The Stoics were not only familiar with this attitude but they embraced it. Two

thousand years ago, writing in his own personal journal which would become known as

Meditations, Emperor Marcus Aurelius would say: “A blazing fire makes flame and

brightness out of everything that is thrown into it.” Another Stoic, Epictetus, who as a

crippled slave has faced adversity after adversity, echoed the same: “Do not seek for things to

happen the way you want them to; rather, wish that what happens happen the way it happens:

then you will be happy.”

It is why amor fati is the Stoic exercise and mindset that you take on for making the

best out of anything that happens: Treating each and every moment—no matter how

challenging—as something to be embraced, not avoided. To not only be okay with it, but love

it and be better for it. So that like oxygen to a fire, obstacles and adversity become fuel for

your potential.
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Best stoic quotes

“We are often more frightened than hurt; and we suffer more from imagination than

from reality.” — Seneca

“If anyone tells you that a certain person speaks ill— of you, do not make excuses

about what is said of you but answer, ‘He was ignorant of my other faults, else he would not

have mentioned these alone.'” — Epictetus

“If it is not right, do not do it, if it is not true, do not say it.” — Marcus Aurelius

“Be tolerant with others and strict with yourself.” — Marcus Aurelius

“You always own the option of having no opinion. There is never any need to get

worked up or to trouble your soul about things you can’t control. These things are not asking

to be judged by you. Leave them alone.” — Marcus Aurelius

“No person has the power to have everything they want, but it is in their power not to

want what they don’t have, and to cheerfully put to good use what they do have.” — Seneca

“If anyone can refute me—show me I’m making a mistake or looking at things from

the wrong perspective—I’ll gladly change. It’s the truth I’m after, and the truth never harmed

anyone.” — Marcus Aurelius

“Today I escaped anxiety. Or no, I discarded it, because it was within me, in my own

perceptions not outside.” — Marcus Aurelius

“You have power over your mind – not outside events. Realise this, and you will find

strength.” — Marcus Aurelius

“You can change what you do, but you can't change what you want.” — Thomas

Shelby

“It isn’t events themselves that disturb people, but only their judgements about them.”

— Epictetus
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“To be like the rock that the waves keep crashing over. It stands unmoved and the

raging of the sea falls still around it.” — Marcus Aurelius

“Waste no more time arguing what a good man should be. Be One.” — Marcus

Aurelius

“Nothing, to my way of thinking, is a better proof of a well ordered mind than a

man’s ability to stop just where he is and pass some time in his own company.” – Seneca

“Receive without pride, let go without attachment.” — Marcus Aurelius

“All men make mistakes, but a good man yields when he knows his course is wrong,

and repairs the evil. The only crime is pride.” – Sophocles

“It’s not enough to be busy; so are the ants. The question is: what are we busy about?”

– Henry David Thoreau

"The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts." – Marcus

Aurelius

“It never ceases to amaze me: we all love ourselves more than other people, but care

more about their opinion than our own.” – Marcus Aurelius

“Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not

the truth.” – Marcus Aurelius

"Life is long if you know how to use it." – Seneca

"True happiness is to enjoy the present, without anxious dependence upon the future."

– Seneca

"Difficulties strengthen the mind, as labor does the body." – Seneca

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

"Freedom is the only worthy goal in life. It is won by disregarding things that lie

beyond our control." – Epictetus

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"Wealth consists not in having great possessions, but in having few wants." –

Epictetus

"Happiness and freedom begin with a clear understanding of one principle: Some

things are within our control, and some things are not." – Epictetus

“Better to trip with the feet than with the tongue.” – Zeno of Citium

"Man conquers the world by conquering himself." – Zeno of Citium

“It is the privilege of the gods to want nothing, and of godlike men to want little.” –

Diogenes

“People who talk well but do nothing are like musical instruments; the sound is all

they have to offer.” – Diogenes

“The wise man knows that he knows nothing, and yet he still seeks knowledge.” –

Diogenes

“Choose not to be harmed — and you won’t feel harmed. Don’t feel harmed — and

you haven’t been.” – Marcus Aurelius

“If a man knows not which port he sails, no wind is favourable.” – Seneca

“I begin to speak only when I’m certain what I’ll say isn’t better left unsaid.” – Cato

"You need to control your heart. You can't do big things if you're distracted by small

things." – Polly Gray

"Don't raise your voice, improve your argument." – Harvey Specter

“You could leave life right now. Let that determine what you do and say and think.” –

Marcus Aurelius

"Anyone who can make you angry, becomes your master" – Epictetus

"When you arise in the morning, think of what privilege it is to be alive, to think, to

enjoy, to love" – Marcus Aurelius

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"Nature hath given men one tongue but two ears, that we may hear from other twice

as much as we speak" – Epictetus

"Until we have begun to go without them, we fail to realize how unnecessary many

things are. We've been using them not because we needed them, but because we had them." –

Seneca

"Do every act of your life as though it were the very last act of your life." – Marcus

Aurelius

"Whatever can happen at any time can happen today" – Seneca

"As is a tale, so is life: not how long it is, but how good it is, is what matters." –

Seneca

"Life, if well lived, is long enough." – Seneca

"There are two kinds of pain. The sort of pain that makes you strong, or useless pain.

The sort of pain that's only suffering. I have no patience for useless things." – Frank

Underwood

"There's no better way to overpower a trickle of doubt than with a flood of naked

truth." – Frank Underwood

"For those of us climbing to the top of the food chain, there can be no mercy. There is

but one rule: hunt or be hunted." – Frank Underwood

“If you don’t like how the table is set, turn over the table.” – Frank Underwood

“We are nothing more or less than what we choose to reveal.” – Frank Underwood

“Power is a lot like real estate. It’s all about location, location, location. The closer

you are to the source, the higher your property value.” – Frank Underwood

“A lion does not ask permission before he eats a zebra.” – Frank Underwood

“Friends make the worst enemies.” – Frank Underwood

"Proximity to power deludes some into thinking they wield it." – Frank Underwood
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"Treading water [staying afloat] is the same as drowning, for people like me." – Frank

Underwood