One of the areas I’ve really been focussing on the last 2.5 years is my ability to coach behaviour change. I’ve been studying this most days for an hour plus.
Part of this is being the change you want to see! A cliché.
I know but if you can’t coach yourself, then…
So, part of my course is all about ancient philosophy and modern psychology and the links between past thinkers and present-day techniques which help you change your behaviour.
The stoics, bless them – got a lot of this right back in the day.
Right now, I feel we need much more of this type of method of thinking, taught in schools actually. Along with how to eat, how to train and how to keep on top of a normal body weight…
Attention span is waning rapidly due to devices. So, my advice this morning is to make a nice brew. Sit down with a pen and paper, then read through some of these quotes I’ve pulled from some of my favourite texts.
There’s some repetition on the emphasis. You’ll see key themes emerging.
Remember, my death meditation learnt from Samurai text early in my teens. Along with Chi breath work!
The wisest amongst us keeps death as a friend…
Control the controllable…forget about the rest…Boom.
The art of relaxation can be taught.
Enjoy.
"All external events are beyond my control; I accept them, whether they are in accordance with my nature or not." - Marcus Aurelius
Aurelius teaches the importance of accepting events that are beyond our control. This acceptance is a core Stoic principle, emphasizing that while we cannot control everything that happens to us, we can control our reactions to them. By accepting the uncontrollable, we free ourselves from unnecessary suffering and maintain inner peace, aligning ourselves with the natural flow of life.
"Don't seek for everything to happen as you wish, but rather wish that everything happens as it actually will—then your life will flow well." - Epictetus
Epictetus stresses the importance of aligning our desires with reality. By accepting things as they are, rather than how we want them to be, we can find peace and contentment. This Stoic philosophy encourages us to embrace life's natural course, reducing frustration and disappointment. It's a call to focus our energy on what we can control (our actions and attitudes) and find serenity in letting go of the uncontrollable.
"External things are not the problem. It’s your assessment of them. Which you can erase right now." - Marcus Aurelius
Aurelius highlights that our perception of external events, not the events themselves, is what causes distress. He suggests that we have the power to change our assessments and interpretations at any moment. This Stoic view advocates for a mindset shift, encouraging us to reframe how we see our circumstances, thereby reducing our suffering and enhancing our well-being.
"If you are distressed by anything external, the pain is not due to the thing itself, but to your estimate of it; and this you have the power to revoke at any moment." - Marcus Aurelius
Similar to the previous phrase, Aurelius emphasizes the power of perception. Our distress is often self-imposed through our judgments of external events. He encourages us to realize that we have the power to change our perspective at any moment, a key Stoic practice for maintaining mental and emotional control.
"It is not death that a man should fear, but he should fear never beginning to live." - Marcus Aurelius
Aurelius addresses the common fear of death, suggesting that a greater fear should be that of not truly living. This Stoic philosophy urges us to embrace life fully and actively, to live according to our values and virtues, rather than being paralyzed by the fear of death, which is a natural and inevitable part of life.
"Life is very short and anxious for those who forget the past, neglect the present, and fear the future." – Seneca
Seneca points out that dwelling on the past, neglecting the present, and fearing the future can make life seem short and filled with anxiety. This Stoic lesson teaches the importance of living in the present moment, learning from the past without being bound by it, and facing the future with courage rather than fear.
"Man is not worried by real problems so much as by his imagined anxieties about real problems." - Epictetus
Epictetus notes that our imagined anxieties often cause more distress than real problems themselves. This Stoic teaching encourages us to differentiate between our often exaggerated worries and the actual reality of situations, thereby reducing unnecessary mental anguish.
"No person has the power to have everything they want, but it is in their power not to want what they don’t have." - Seneca
Seneca teaches the virtue of contentment. He suggests that while we cannot control everything we desire, we can control our desires themselves. This Stoic philosophy promotes finding satisfaction in what we already have rather than in unending pursuit of more.
"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
Seneca emphasizes the value of self-sufficiency and introspection. He suggests that being comfortable in one's own company, without constant external stimulation, is a sign of mental strength and balance. This Stoic principle advocates for the cultivation of inner peace and self-awareness.
"The best revenge is not to be like your enemy." - Marcus Aurelius
Marcus Aurelius teaches that the most effective form of revenge is to not stoop to the level of one's adversary. By maintaining our integrity and virtues, we rise above petty conflicts and wrongdoings. This Stoic philosophy promotes the idea of responding to negativity with positivity and maintaining our moral high ground.
"The best way to avenge yourself is to not be like that." - Marcus Aurelius
Similar to the previous phrase, Aurelius again emphasizes the importance of not mirroring the negative behaviors of others. By staying true to our values, we demonstrate strength of character and resilience, which is the best form of retribution.
"The key is to keep company only with people who uplift you, whose presence calls forth your best." - Epictetus
Epictetus advises choosing our companions wisely. He suggests that we should surround ourselves with people who inspire us and bring out our best qualities. This Stoic philosophy underscores the influence of our environment on our character and well-being.
"The only wealth which you will keep forever is the wealth you have given away." - Marcus Aurelius
Aurelius reflects on the impermanence of material wealth and suggests that the true, enduring wealth is found in acts of generosity. This Stoic lesson teaches that what we give to others, in kindness and support, is what truly lasts and contributes to our moral and spiritual richness.
"The soul becomes dyed with the color of its thoughts." - Marcus Aurelius
Aurelius illustrates the profound impact of our thoughts on our inner being. He suggests that our habitual thoughts shape who we are, echoing the Stoic belief in the power of the mind in shaping our character and life experience.
"There is only one way to happiness and that is to cease worrying about things which are beyond the power of our will." - Epictetus
Epictetus teaches that true happiness comes from focusing on what we can control and letting go of worries about what we cannot. This Stoic principle advocates for a life of simplicity, contentment, and peace, achieved by understanding the limits of our control.
"Think of yourself as dead. You have lived your life. Now, take what’s left and live it properly." - Marcus Aurelius
Aurelius encourages us to live each moment as if it were our last. By imagining we have already lived our life, we can gain perspective on what truly matters and focus on living the remainder of our life with purpose and virtue.
"To complain is always nonacceptance of what is." - Marcus Aurelius
Aurelius points out that complaining signifies a refusal to accept reality as it is. This Stoic lesson teaches the importance of acceptance, resilience, and finding peace in the present circumstances, rather than resenting them.
"To live a good life: We have the potential for it. If we can learn to be indifferent to what makes no difference." - Marcus Aurelius
Aurelius suggests that a good life is attainable if we learn to be indifferent to trivial matters. By focusing on what truly matters—our actions, choices, and responses—we can live a life of virtue and fulfillment.
"True nobility isn’t about being better than someone else. It’s about being better than you used to be." - Seneca
Seneca redefines nobility as a personal journey of self-improvement rather than a competition with others. This Stoic philosophy encourages us to focus on our own growth and progress, measuring success by our own standards and past selves.
"We are more often frightened than hurt; and we suffer more from imagination than from reality." - Seneca
Seneca observes that fear and imagination often cause more suffering than actual events. This Stoic teaching reminds us to ground ourselves in reality, rather than getting lost in unfounded fears and exaggerated scenarios.
"What really ruins our character is the fact that none of us looks back over his life." - Seneca
Seneca emphasizes the importance of self-reflection in building character. He suggests that by not examining our past actions and experiences, we miss opportunities for growth and self-improvement. This Stoic principle advocates for regular introspection as a means of personal development.
"When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves." - Viktor Frankl
While not a Stoic philosopher, Viktor Frankl's message aligns with Stoic principles. He suggests that when faced with unchangeable circumstances, our power lies in changing ourselves – our attitudes, perceptions, and responses. This aligns with the Stoic focus on internal control and resilience.
"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
Aurelius reminds us that having an opinion on everything is not necessary, especially on matters beyond our control. He advocates for a sense of detachment and peace by refraining from unnecessary judgments and emotional entanglements with things we cannot influence.
"You may leave this life at any moment: have this possibility in your mind in all that you do or say or think." - Marcus Aurelius
Aurelius advises keeping the impermanence of life in mind. This awareness can guide us to live more purposefully, making the most of each moment and focusing on what truly matters. It's a Stoic practice to live with a sense of urgency and intentionality.
"You must be one man, either good or bad. You must either cultivate your own reason, or else resign yourself to be the plaything of chance." - Epictetus
Epictetus highlights the choice between actively cultivating one's virtues and reasoning, or passively being at the mercy of external forces. This Stoic philosophy encourages self-development and intentional living, as opposed to leaving one's life to chance.
"A stoic is someone who transforms fear into prudence, pain into transformation, mistakes into initiation, and desire into undertaking." - Nassim Nicholas Taleb
Taleb, a modern thinker influenced by Stoicism, defines a stoic as someone who positively transforms life's challenges. Fear becomes caution, pain leads to growth, mistakes turn into learning opportunities, and desire drives action. This interpretation of Stoicism highlights the philosophy's focus on personal growth and resilience.
"All you need are these: certainty of judgment in the present moment; action for the common good in the present moment; and an attitude of gratitude in the present moment for anything that comes your way." - Marcus Aurelius
Aurelius outlines three key components for a good life: clear judgment, actions that benefit others, and gratitude. Emphasizing the present moment, this Stoic teaching encourages mindfulness, altruism, and a positive outlook, regardless of circumstances.
"An unexamined life is not worth living." - Socrates
Though not a Stoic himself, Socrates' famous assertion greatly influenced Stoic philosophy. He suggests that self-examination and reflection are crucial for a meaningful and virtuous life. This aligns with the Stoic emphasis on self-awareness and the pursuit of wisdom.
"At dawn, when you have trouble getting out of bed, tell yourself: 'I have to go to work — as a human being. What do I have to complain of, if I’m going to do what I was born for — the things I was brought into the world to do?'" - Marcus Aurelius
Aurelius offers a motivational perspective for facing the day. He reminds us that fulfilling our duties and roles in life is what we are meant to do, providing a sense of purpose and duty that aligns with Stoic values.
"Choose not to be harmed — and you won’t feel harmed. Don’t feel harmed — and you haven’t been." - Marcus Aurelius
Aurelius suggests that our perception of harm is a choice. By choosing not to perceive actions or events as harmful, we can maintain our inner peace. This Stoic teaching promotes emotional control and resilience in the face of adversity.
"Circumstances don’t make the man, they only reveal him to himself." - Epictetus
Epictetus teaches that our reactions to circumstances reveal our true character. Rather than shaping us, challenging situations expose our virtues and flaws, providing opportunities for self-awareness and growth.
"Confine yourself to the present." - Marcus Aurelius
Aurelius advises focusing on the present moment. This Stoic practice encourages mindfulness and living in the 'now,' reducing anxieties about the past or future and enhancing our engagement with life.
"Do not be overheard complaining... Not even to yourself." - Marcus Aurelius
Aurelius warns against the habit of complaining, even in private. He suggests that voicing complaints, even internally,
"All external events are beyond my control; I accept them, whether they are in accordance with my nature or not." - Marcus Aurelius
Aurelius teaches the importance of accepting external events, as they are outside our control. This acceptance is key in Stoicism, allowing us to maintain inner peace despite the unpredictability of life. By focusing on what we can control—our reactions and our actions—we can live in harmony with whatever life presents, aligning with the Stoic principle of focusing on internal rather than external factors.
"Begin each day by telling yourself: I shall be meeting with the busybody, the ungrateful, arrogant, deceitful, envious, unsocial." - Marcus Aurelius
This advice from Marcus Aurelius serves as a mental preparation for the day ahead, reminding us that we will inevitably encounter difficult people and situations. By anticipating these challenges, we can mentally prepare ourselves to respond with patience, understanding, and composure, embodying the Stoic virtues of resilience and equanimity.
"Don't explain your philosophy. Embody it." - Epictetus
Epictetus emphasizes the importance of living out one's philosophical beliefs rather than merely discussing them. This phrase encourages action and embodiment of principles, a core aspect of Stoic philosophy. By practicing what we preach, we demonstrate the practical application and value of our beliefs, making a more significant impact than words alone could achieve.
"Throw away your books; stop letting yourself be distracted." - Marcus Aurelius
Here, Aurelius is not advocating for ignorance but rather for focusing on practical application over endless learning. In the context of Stoicism, this means applying philosophical principles to daily life rather than getting lost in theoretical study. It’s a reminder that true wisdom comes from living and experiencing, not just from reading and acquiring knowledge.
"We should always be asking ourselves: 'Is this something that is, or is not, in my control?'" - Epictetus
This phrase encapsulates the central Stoic teaching of differentiating between what we can and cannot control. By constantly reminding ourselves of this distinction, we can focus our efforts and emotions on our own actions and attitudes, leading to a more peaceful and effective life. This principle helps in reducing anxiety and frustration over uncontrollable events.
"If you want to improve, be content to be thought foolish and stupid." - Epictetus
Epictetus highlights the importance of being open to learning and growth, even at the risk of appearing foolish. In Stoic philosophy, the pursuit of wisdom and self-improvement is paramount, and this often requires challenging existing beliefs and stepping out of comfort zones. True progress, according to Stoicism, comes from embracing vulnerability and the possibility of making mistakes.
"Cling tooth and nail to the following rule: Not to give in to adversity, not to trust prosperity, and always take full note of fortune's habit of behaving just as she pleases." - Seneca
Seneca here speaks to the Stoic ideal of maintaining a balanced perspective in both good and bad times. This rule underscores the unpredictable nature of fortune and the importance of not being swayed excessively by external circumstances. Stoicism teaches the cultivation of a steady, composed state of mind that remains constant irrespective of external fortunes.
"Just keep in mind: the more we value things outside our control, the less control we have." - Epictetus
Epictetus warns against placing too much value on external possessions or outcomes, as this leads to a loss of control over our own peace of mind. This phrase underlines a fundamental Stoic belief: true power and freedom lie in focusing on our internal states and reactions, which are within our control, rather than external circumstances.
"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." - Seneca
Seneca encourages living each day as if it were our last, a common theme in Stoicism. This perspective fosters a sense of urgency and importance in our daily actions and decisions, urging us not to postpone living virtuously. By balancing life's books daily, we maintain a constant awareness of our moral and ethical standings.
"The soul becomes dyed with the color of its thoughts." - Marcus Aurelius
Aurelius teaches that our thoughts shape our character. In Stoic philosophy, the mind's power in shaping our experiences and character is paramount. By cultivating positive, virtuous thoughts, we can 'dye' our souls with virtue and resilience, leading to a more fulfilling and harmonious life.
"He who is brave is free." - Seneca
Seneca's phrase emphasizes the Stoic belief that true freedom is a state of mind. Courage, in this context, is not just physical bravery, but the courage to face life's challenges, make ethical choices, and maintain integrity despite external pressures. This form of bravery leads to inner freedom, as it liberates the individual from being controlled by fear or desire.
"Attach yourself to what is spiritually superior, regardless of what other people think or do. Hold to your true aspirations no matter what is going on around you." - Epictetus
Epictetus advises focusing on spiritual and moral growth, independent of others' actions or opinions. This phrase underlines the Stoic principle of self-reliance and the importance of personal virtue. In a world where external circumstances and opinions are unpredictable and often negative, holding firm to one's ethical convictions is seen as the path to true contentment and self-respect.
"Life is very short and anxious for those who forget the past, neglect the present, and fear the future." - Seneca
This quote from Seneca highlights the Stoic view on the importance of living in the present. Dwelling on the past, neglecting the present, and fearing the future only leads to a life filled with anxiety and unhappiness. Seneca, like other Stoics, advocates for a mindful approach to life, focusing on the current moment and the things within our control.
"It is the power of the mind to be unconquerable." - Seneca
Seneca speaks to the Stoic belief in the strength of the human mind. Despite external circumstances, the mind can remain steadfast and unconquerable. This idea is central to Stoicism, which teaches that inner peace and resilience are not dependent on external events, but on how we perceive and react to them.
"How long are you going to wait before you demand the best for yourself?" - Epictetus
This provocative question from Epictetus challenges individuals to stop postponing their pursuit of virtue and excellence. It reflects the Stoic urgency for self-improvement and personal growth. The phrase is a call to action, urging individuals to take control of their lives and strive for their best, starting now.
"Let us train our minds to desire what the situation demands." - Seneca
Seneca suggests adapting our desires to our current circumstances. This adaptability is key in Stoicism, as it allows for contentment and peace regardless of external conditions. By aligning our desires with reality, we avoid unnecessary disappointment and cultivate a state of equanimity.
"We are more often frightened than hurt; and we suffer more from imagination than from reality." - Seneca
This quote by Seneca touches on the Stoic theme of perception versus reality. Often, our fears and anxieties are products of our imagination and not reflective of actual events or outcomes. Recognizing this discrepancy can alleviate unnecessary suffering and help us approach life with a more rational and calm mindset.
"When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves." - Viktor Frankl
Though not a Stoic philosopher, Viktor Frankl’s sentiment aligns closely with Stoic principles. This phrase underscores the Stoic idea of focusing on internal change when external circumstances are beyond our control. It’s a powerful reminder of our capacity for adaptability, resilience, and personal growth.
"Seek not for events to happen as you wish, but wish for events to happen as they do and your life will go smoothly." - Epictetus
Epictetus highlights the importance of aligning one's desires with reality. By wishing for things to happen as they naturally do, rather than how we want them to be, we can achieve a state of inner peace and contentment. This Stoic philosophy teaches the acceptance of things we cannot change and finding harmony in the natural course of life.
"Don’t seek for everything to happen as you wish it would, but rather wish that everything happens as it actually will—then your life will flow well." - Epictetus
Epictetus urges us to align our wishes with reality, rather than trying to bend reality to fit our wishes. This approach leads to a harmonious life, free from the constant turmoil of unmet expectations. It's a call to embrace the present and find contentment in the way things are, rather than being perpetually dissatisfied with the way things aren't.
"We have two ears and one mouth so that we can listen twice as much as we speak." - Epictetus
This phrase, often attributed to Epictetus, highlights the importance of listening in Stoicism. The idea is to prioritize understanding and learning over expressing one's own opinions. By listening more, we can gain deeper insights into the world and other people, leading to better judgment and wisdom.
"To endure is greater than to dare; to tire out hostile fortune; to be daunted by no difficulty; to keep heart when all have lost it; to go through intrigue spotless; to forego even ambition when the end is gained – who can say this is not greatness?" - William Makepeace Thackeray
Although not a Stoic philosopher, Thackeray's words resonate with Stoic principles. Endurance, resilience, and integrity in the face of adversity are highly valued in Stoicism. This quote embodies the Stoic ideal of inner strength and the ability to maintain one's character and virtues, regardless of external challenges.
"Count each separate day as a separate life." - Seneca
Seneca encourages us to live in the present and treat each day as a complete life in itself. This mindset helps in appreciating the present moment and living fully, without being weighed down by the past or overly anxious about the future. It's a reminder to focus on what can be done today, making the most out of every moment.
"It’s not because things are difficult that we dare not venture. It’s because we dare not venture that they are difficult." - Seneca
This phrase challenges the common notion that difficulty prevents action. Seneca suggests that it is our reluctance to act that makes things appear difficult. By daring to take the first step, we often find that perceived obstacles are not as insurmountable as they seemed. This idea encourages courage and initiative, key virtues in Stoicism.
"If you are distressed by anything external, the pain is not due to the thing itself, but to your estimate of it; and this you have the power to revoke at any moment." - Marcus Aurelius
Marcus Aurelius emphasizes the Stoic principle that our distress comes not from external events but from our perception of them. We have the power to change our perspective and, in doing so, remove the distress. This idea is central to Stoic thought, advocating for mastery over one's thoughts and reactions.
"True happiness is... to enjoy the present, without anxious dependence upon the future." - Seneca
Seneca's words echo the Stoic theme of focusing on the present. Happiness, according to Seneca, comes from enjoying the current moment without undue worry about what the future holds. This approach allows for a more peaceful and contented life, free from the anxieties of future uncertainties.
"The best revenge is not to be like your enemy." - Marcus Aurelius
Marcus Aurelius advocates for maintaining one's virtues and character, even in the face of wrongdoing by others. Instead of stooping to the level of an adversary, the best revenge is to remain true to one's ethical principles. This reflects the Stoic value of self-control and integrity.
"We are more often frightened than hurt; and we suffer more in imagination than in reality." - Seneca
Seneca addresses the human tendency to magnify fears and worries in our minds, leading to more suffering than what reality warrants. This Stoic view encourages a rational assessment of fears and a focus on dealing with present realities rather than imagined scenarios.
"There is only one way to happiness and that is to cease worrying about things which are beyond the power of our will." - Epictetus
Epictetus succinctly delivers a core Stoic teaching: happiness comes from focusing on what we can control and letting go of what we cannot. Worrying about things beyond our power only leads to unnecessary distress and hampers our ability to enjoy life.
"We are not given a good or a bad life. We are given a life, and it’s up to us to make it good or bad." - Epictetus
This phrase underlines the Stoic belief in personal responsibility for the quality of our lives. Epictetus teaches that life itself is neutral; it is our actions, decisions, and perceptions that render it good or bad. This perspective empowers us to take charge of our lives and strive for virtue and happiness regardless of external circumstances.
"Difficulties show a person's character. So when trouble comes, think of it as a test of your character." - Epictetus
Epictetus views challenges as opportunities to reveal and strengthen character. This Stoic idea suggests that we should embrace difficulties as a means of testing and improving ourselves, rather than avoiding them. It's a call to resilience and fortitude, seeing the value in adversity.
"It is in your power to retire into yourself whenever you choose." - Marcus Aurelius
Marcus Aurelius emphasizes the Stoic practice of introspection and self-reflection. The ability to turn inward and find peace and clarity within oneself is a crucial skill in Stoicism. This quote reminds us that no matter what is happening externally, we can always find a space of tranquility and perspective within.
"Do not act as if you had ten thousand years to throw away. Death stands at your elbow. Be good for something while you live and it is in your power." - Marcus Aurelius
This phrase is a stark reminder of life's impermanence and the urgency to live meaningfully. Marcus Aurelius urges us to act with the awareness that life is fleeting, and we should use the time we have to do good and live according to our values.
"A person’s worth is measured by the worth of what he values." - Marcus Aurelius
Marcus Aurelius points out that the things we value and give importance to define our character. This Stoic idea encourages us to evaluate and choose our values carefully, as they ultimately shape our actions, decisions, and who we are as people.
"Wealth is the slave of a wise man. The master of a fool." - Seneca
Seneca makes a distinction between how a wise person and a fool perceive and utilize wealth. In Stoicism, material wealth should be used wisely and not be the primary goal of life. For the wise, it is a tool; for the fool, it becomes a master, dictating their actions and desires.
"Wherever there is a human being, there is an opportunity for kindness." - Seneca
Seneca highlights the universal potential for kindness. This phrase reflects the Stoic value of benevolence and the idea that every interaction with others is an opportunity to practice virtue. It's a call to consistently incorporate kindness into our daily lives.
"The greatest blessings of mankind are within us and within our reach." - Seneca
Seneca teaches that true happiness and contentment come from within, not from external sources. This Stoic belief suggests that inner peace, virtue, and satisfaction are always accessible and do not depend on external possessions or status.
"What really ruins our character is the fact that none of us looks back over his life." - Seneca
Seneca underscores the importance of self-reflection in personal development. By reviewing our past actions and decisions, we can learn, grow, and improve our character. This introspection is vital in Stoicism for cultivating self-awareness and virtue.
"You have control over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength." - Marcus Aureliuas
Marcus Aurelius reiterates a central Stoic teaching: the source of our strength lies in controlling our mind and reactions, not in trying to control external events. This perspective empowers us to maintain inner peace and resilience in the face of life's unpredictability.
"Only time can heal what reason cannot." - Seneca
Seneca acknowledges that while Stoicism emphasizes rationality in dealing with life's problems, some situations, especially those involving emotional pain, require time to heal. This phrase adds a dimension of patience and acceptance of the healing process, recognizing the limits of reason alone.
"The art of living is more like wrestling than dancing." - Marcus Aurelius
Marcus Aurelius compares life to wrestling rather than dancing, suggesting that living virtuously requires active engagement, effort, and readiness to face challenges head-on, rather than simply moving gracefully through easy times.
"No person is free who is not master of themselves." - Epictetus
Epictetus highlights the importance of self-mastery in achieving true freedom. Freedom, in this Stoic context, means being in control of one's reactions, emotions, and decisions, rather than being dominated by external influences or internal impulses.
"We should take wandering outdoor walks, so that the mind might be nourished and refreshed by the open air and deep breathing." - Seneca
Seneca advocates for the rejuvenating power of nature and the importance of physical activity for mental well-being. This advice aligns with the Stoic view that caring for the mind includes caring for the body, recognizing the interconnection between physical and mental health.
"Begin at once to live, and count each day as a separate life." - Seneca
Seneca encourages living each day to its fullest, treating it as a complete life in itself. This Stoic advice promotes mindfulness and the appreciation of the present, urging us not to take time for granted or postpone living virtuously.
"There is no easy way from the earth to the stars." - Seneca
Seneca metaphorically speaks to the challenges and efforts required in the pursuit of greatness or virtue. This phrase underscores the Stoic belief in the value of hard work, persistence, and the journey of self-improvement.
"He who has a why to live can bear almost any how." - Friedrich Nietzsche
Nietzsche, though not a Stoic, echoes a Stoic-like sentiment. Having a strong sense of purpose or a 'why' in life provides the resilience to endure various challenges ('how'). This aligns with Stoic values of purposefulness and enduring adversity with dignity.
"Anger is a brief madness." - Horace
Horace's observation resonates with the Stoic view on emotions like anger. Stoicism teaches that anger is an irrational, temporary loss of reason, and advocates for maintaining rational control over emotions.
"To be calm when you've found something going on you can't understand, and you feel powerless and frustrated – that's strength." - Epictetus
Epictetus defines strength not as power over others or situations, but as maintaining calmness and rationality in the face of the incomprehensible or uncontrollable. This Stoic principle encourages internal fortitude and composure regardless of external circumstances.
"Prosperity is no just scale; adversity is the only balance to weigh friends." - Plutarch
Plutarch, a Greek biographer and essayist, touches upon a theme often explored in Stoicism: the revealing nature of adversity. Adversity, more than prosperity, tests and proves the true nature of friendships and character, aligning with the Stoic belief in the value of hardships in revealing and refining personal virtues.