The core principles of Stoicism and how to apply them in your daily life.
Stoicism is built on four fundamental virtues that guide ethical living:
The ability to understand what is truly good, bad, or indifferent. Wisdom helps us distinguish between what we can control and what we cannot, and to make sound judgments about how to act.
Not just physical bravery, but the courage to face challenges, stand up for what's right, and persist in the face of adversity. It's the strength to do what needs to be done, even when it's difficult.
Treating others fairly, giving each person their due, and acting for the common good. Justice extends to our relationships, our communities, and our responsibilities as citizens of the world.
Self-control, moderation, and balance. Temperance helps us avoid excess, resist harmful desires, and maintain inner harmony. It's about finding the right measure in all things.
One of Stoicism's most powerful teachings is the distinction between what we can control and what we cannot:
Stoics teach us to focus our energy only on what we can control—our own thoughts, judgments, and actions. By accepting what we cannot control, we free ourselves from unnecessary anxiety and frustration.
Start each day by reflecting on what challenges you might face and how you'll respond with virtue. Remind yourself of what you can and cannot control, and prepare your mind for whatever comes.
End each day by reviewing your actions. Ask yourself: Did I act with virtue? What did I do well? What could I improve? This practice of self-examination helps us grow and learn.
Periodically imagine losing what you value—your health, relationships, or possessions. This practice (called premeditatio malorum) helps you appreciate what you have and prepares you to face loss with equanimity.
When facing difficulties, step back and view your situation from a broader perspective. Consider how small your problems are in the grand scheme of things, and how temporary they are in the span of time.
Remember that you will die. This isn't meant to be morbid, but to remind you of life's preciousness and urgency. It helps you focus on what truly matters and avoid wasting time on trivial concerns.
Not just accepting what happens, but loving it. The Stoics believed that everything that occurs is part of a rational, ordered universe. By embracing our fate, we find peace and purpose in all circumstances.
Stoics see themselves as citizens of the world, not just their local community. We have a duty to help others and work for the common good, recognizing our shared humanity.
Stoics distinguish between things that are truly good (virtue) or bad (vice), and "indifferents"—things like wealth, health, or reputation that are neither good nor bad in themselves. While we may prefer some indifferents, our happiness shouldn't depend on them.
Stoics don't try to eliminate emotions, but to understand and manage them wisely. They distinguish between healthy emotions (like joy and caution) and unhealthy passions (like excessive fear or anger).
Stoics value compassion, love, and joy. They simply believe these should be based on virtue and reason, not on external circumstances beyond our control.
Stoics are active in the world, working to improve themselves and help others. They accept what they cannot change, but work diligently on what they can influence.
Stoic philosophy is remarkably practical for modern life. It helps us:
The key is consistent practice. Stoicism isn't just a philosophy to read about—it's a way of life to be lived, one day at a time.