The Practicing Stoic

1. Judgment, not events, shapes our experience

"If you are pained by any external thing, it is not this thing that disturbs you, but your own judgment about it. And it is in your power to wipe out this judgment now."

Our reactions are choices. We often believe we respond directly to events, but Stoicism teaches that our judgments about situations, not the situations themselves, determine our reactions. These judgments are within our control, even when events are not.

Recognizing this power is liberating. By understanding that our opinions shape our experience, we gain the ability to change our responses. This doesn't mean suppressing all emotion, but rather choosing our reactions consciously rather than defaulting to habitual patterns.

Practical application is key. The Stoics recommend exercises like nightly reflection on our judgments and reactions throughout the day. By consistently examining our thoughts, we can identify patterns, challenge unhelpful beliefs, and cultivate more constructive ways of interpreting events.

2. Focus on what's within your control, detach from externals

"Some things are up to us, while others are not up to us. Up to us are opinion, motivation, desire, aversion, and, in a word, whatever is of our own doing; not up to us are our body, our property, reputation, office, and, in a word, whatever is not of our own doing."

Distinguish between internals and externals. Stoicism emphasizes the importance of recognizing what we can and cannot control. Our thoughts, judgments, and actions are within our power, while external events, others' opinions, and material possessions are not.

Redirect energy wisely. By focusing on what's within our control, we avoid wasting energy on futile worries and instead channel our efforts into productive pursuits. This shift in focus leads to greater peace of mind and effectiveness.

Practice detachment from externals. While we may have preferences about external outcomes, Stoicism teaches us not to tie our happiness to them. By cultivating indifference to externals, we become more resilient in the face of change and adversity.

3. Gain perspective through cosmic and historical awareness

"You can rid yourself of many useless things among those that disturb you, for they lie entirely in your imagination; and you will then gain for yourself ample space by comprehending the whole universe in your mind, and by contemplating the eternity of time, and observing the rapid change of every part of everything, how short is the time from birth to dissolution, and the illimitable time before birth as well as the equally boundless time after dissolution."

Cosmic perspective reduces anxiety. By considering our place in the vast universe and the expanse of time, we gain a sense of proportion that can alleviate many of our day-to-day worries. Our personal concerns often seem less overwhelming when viewed against this backdrop.

Historical awareness provides context. Studying history reveals the cyclical nature of human experiences and the impermanence of power, fame, and material success. This understanding can help us detach from pursuing fleeting external rewards.

Regular contemplation is transformative. The Stoics recommend frequent meditation on these cosmic and historical themes. Over time, this practice can fundamentally shift our worldview, leading to greater equanimity and wisdom in our daily lives.

4. Confront mortality to live more fully

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

Memento mori as a tool for focus. Regular contemplation of death serves as a powerful reminder to prioritize what truly matters. By acknowledging our finite time, we're more likely to live intentionally and avoid wasting energy on trivial concerns.

Death as a natural process. Stoicism teaches us to view death not as a terrifying end, but as a natural part of existence. This perspective can help alleviate anxiety and allow us to engage more fully with life.

Key practices:

• Imagine this day as your last
• Reflect on the deaths of historical figures
• Consider your own insignificance in cosmic time

Preparation, not morbidity. The goal is not to obsess over death, but to use its reality as motivation for living virtuously and appreciating the present moment. This mindset fosters gratitude and a sense of urgency in pursuing what's truly important.

5. Manage desires by questioning their validity

"If you don't get what you wanted, you suffer; and even when you get exactly what you wanted, you still suffer because you can't hold on to it forever."

Examine desires critically. Stoicism encourages us to question the source and validity of our desires. Many of our wants are shaped by societal expectations or fleeting emotions rather than genuine needs or values.

Natural vs. unnatural desires. The Stoics distinguish between natural, necessary desires (like food and shelter) and those that are artificially created or excessive. By focusing on fulfilling only natural desires, we can find greater contentment.

Practical strategies:

• Delay gratification to test the importance of a desire
• Practice negative visualization (imagining loss) to appreciate what you have
• Regularly fast or abstain from pleasures to maintain perspective

6. Find contentment through moderation and detachment

"He is a wise man who does not grieve for the things which he has not, but rejoices for those which he has."

Moderation as a virtue. Stoicism advocates for balance in all things, avoiding both excess and deprivation. This middle path leads to greater stability and satisfaction.

Cultivate detachment. While enjoying life's pleasures, maintain an inner detachment that allows you to let go when necessary. This mindset protects against the pain of loss and the anxiety of clinging to impermanent things.

Practical applications:

• Practice gratitude for what you have
• Periodically abstain from comforts to maintain perspective
• When enjoying something, remind yourself of its temporary nature

7. Cultivate virtue as the path to true happiness

"Virtue is sufficient for happiness."

Define virtue. For the Stoics, virtue primarily means living according to reason and nature, which manifests as wisdom, justice, courage, and self-control. These qualities are seen as the only true good.

Virtue as its own reward. Stoicism teaches that practicing virtue is inherently fulfilling, regardless of external outcomes. This belief provides a stable foundation for happiness that isn't dependent on changeable circumstances.

Practical steps:

• Regularly reflect on your actions in light of Stoic virtues
• Seek opportunities to practice courage, justice, and self-control
• Study the lives of virtuous individuals for inspiration and guidance

8. Practice Stoicism daily for lasting change

"Don't explain your philosophy. Embody it."

Consistency is key. Stoicism is not merely an intellectual exercise but a way of life that requires daily practice. Regular application of Stoic principles leads to gradual but profound changes in mindset and behavior.

Practical exercises:

• Morning preparation: Anticipate challenges and plan Stoic responses
• Evening reflection: Review the day's events and your reactions
• Negative visualization: Regularly imagine losing what you value
• Voluntary discomfort: Periodically practice enduring mild hardships

Focus on progress, not perfection. The Stoics recognize that mastery is a lifelong journey. Celebrate small improvements and view setbacks as opportunities for growth rather than failures.

Last updated: August 20, 2024