Stoicism — What Is It, How Can I Use It

Here are 6 guides for you to understand the concept

Here are 6 guides for you to understand the concept

Photo by Ian Noble on Unsplash

I’ve been really into Stoicism lately, but I get that the fancy words can be a bit much. Let me share the cool stuff I’ve learned in a more friendly way,

Think of life like a river — you can’t control the flow, but you can steer your boat. That’s what Stoicism is about, learning to navigate through calm times and rough waters with smart choices.

Before, life felt like a huge wave dragging me down with all its unpredictability and worries, but Stoicism, those ancient wisdom nuggets, changed how I react to things, make choices, and see life in general.

Here are some neat Stoic ideas that have helped me out:

1. Life’s judgments: Sometimes we look at things and judge them as good or bad, which can mess with our happiness. Instead, try asking, “Is this really helpful?” or “Is there another way to see this?” It helps us chill and not get upset about every little thing.

2. Enjoy the journey: It’s not just about reaching goals — the journey itself is super important. Like, appreciating everyday stuff makes the whole ride more fun. You know, sunny days, cool chats, or even small wins — they all add up to a happy journey.

3. Inner peace: Think of it like having a calm and strong mind, even when life gets bumpy. It’s not about avoiding problems but handling them with a cool head. Understanding yourself is the first step, and it’s like being in control of your own thoughts.

4. Control freaking out: If you’re scared about something, ask yourself if you can control it. If not, it’s like wasting energy. So, focus on what you can change, and let go of the rest. It’s like having a guide to staying strong when things get tough.

5. Obstacles are the way: Problems are like chances to get better. Instead of thinking they’re roadblocks, see them as the path to becoming stronger and smarter. Challenges help you grow, so tackle them like a champ!

6. Control what you can: Imagine juggling — you can toss the balls up and control that part. But if a gust of wind comes, you can adjust. It’s about focusing on what you can handle and letting go of things beyond your control. Don’t try to hold water in your hands, it’ll slip away. Instead, get really good at juggling!

These Stoic ideas have been like superhero tools for my mind. I hope they help you too! Keep being awesome!