A few years ago, I stumbled upon Stoic philosophy through Ryan Holiday’s videos. I began following his content, which led me to the teachings of Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, and Seneca. I discovered new ways to live by and began replacing old thoughts and behaviors with new ones.
At the time, life was chaotic. It felt overwhelming, uncertain, and noisy. I was searching for something grounded and timeless. And Stoicism gave me that.
Through my findings and experiences, I learned that Stoicism isn’t about suppressing emotions or pretending to be a stone wall. It’s about mastering yourself so the world doesn’t master you. It’s a practical wisdom built to help you face life with clarity, calm, and character.
Here are five Stoic principles that every man (and woman) should live by if they want to lead with strength, purpose, and peace.
Focus Only on What You Can Control
In this world, there are things you can control and those you can’t. The Stoics recognized that the only things truly within our power are our mindset and actions. Everything else, like traffic, politics, the weather, and other people’s opinions, is outside our control.
Remember, there’s the world, and then, there’s your response to it.
“Make the best use of what is in your power, and take the rest as it happens.”
— Epictetus
When I started applying this, it felt like a weight lifted off my shoulders. Instead of stressing over outcomes, I began showing up with full effort, knowing that how I respond matters more than what happens.
Let go of the need to control everything. Focus on your effort, discipline, and attitude. That’s where your power lies.
Practice Voluntary Discomfort
Seneca advised practicing poverty even when you are well-off. It’s to remind yourself that you can handle less. That you are not soft and won’t fall apart if life throws a curveball.
“Set aside a certain number of days, during which you shall be content with the scantiest and cheapest fare, with coarse and rough dress, saying to yourself the while: ‘Is this the condition that I feared?’”
— Seneca
I began making small changes: taking cold showers, occasionally skipping meals, talking to strangers, and practicing digital detoxes. They weren’t extreme, but enough to remind me that comfort shouldn’t own me.
Modern life is full of convenience. But resilience is built in discomfort. Do hard things on purpose.
Live According to Your Values (Not Emotions)
Your emotions are valid, but they aren’t always accurate. One of the greatest Stoic teachings is to act based on principles, not moods.
“If it is not right, do not do it, if it is not true, do not say it.”
— Marcus Aurelius
This teaching helped me stop making impulsive decisions. For instance, instead of snapping back during an argument with my partner, I paused. I didn’t let my emotions dictate my actions. I learned to respond, not react.
Define your values. They could be honesty, discipline, kindness, or something else. Then, measure your actions against them.
Emotions come and go. Integrity lasts.
Memento Mori: Remember You Will Die
Thinking about your death sounds dark, but it’s actually freeing. ‘Memento Mori’ is a Stoic reminder that death is an inevitable part of life. Because of that, every day matters.
“You could leave life right now. Let that determine what you do and say and think.”
— Marcus Aurelius
When I started reflecting on morality, I stopped postponing the things I cared about. I wrote more, reached out to people I love, and said no to things that didn’t matter.
You don’t have forever. That’s not meant to scare you but to wake you up.
Seek Progress, Not Perfection
I learned this throughout my creative journey as a writer. Whenever I chased perfection, I suffered through my own emotions and negative thinking. Stoicism helped me overcome the need to be perfect all the time and instead focus on progress.
Stoicism isn’t about being flawless. Even Marcus Aurelius wrote about struggling to get out of bed. The key is showing up again and again.
“No man is free who is not master of himself.”
— Epictetus
You won’t always feel motivated. You will fall short. However, if you aim to improve by 1% each day, you will grow stronger over time.
I’ve learned that consistency beats intensity. A small step today is better than waiting for the perfect moment tomorrow. Remember, a master was once a beginner. Nobody starts perfectly. It takes a lot of hard work, patience, and persistence to achieve greatness. Keep going, even when days are tough.
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