I want to spend this post telling you a little of what I have found relating to Stoic philosophy. I know what you are thinking, BORING. But, I think I can convince you that there is value in understanding the true meaning of Stoicism. Before I get any further into this topic, I also want you to know that I know enough about this subject to be dangerous, so don’t necessarily take what I have to say as “the truth” without further study.

The most precise definition of Stoicism that I have found was at the Orion Philosophy For Life. Click on the block to the right to visit that site.

Most of what I know of Stoicism comes from studying Marcus Aurelius, who was a Stoic Philosopher and a Roman Emperor between 161AD – 180AD. He had a lot to say about this version of philosophy. Let’s look at some of his quotes:

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“You have power over your mind — not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.”

“When you arise in the morning, think of what a privilege it is to be alive, to think, to enjoy, to love…”

“The best revenge is to be unlike him who performed the injury.”

“The soul becomes dyed with the color of its thoughts.”

Marcus Aurelius

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To me, Stoicism is fundamentally a philosophy about how to live my life. It is about focusing on things I can control, and accepting the things I can’t. To make a meaningful life, I must also understand that everything is transient and impermanent.  Change has always been around and always will be. Once I embraced that fact, I can go on to making my life what I want it to be by focusing on what I can control.

Many people may go through life simply existing, going through the motions without actively engaging with the world around them. Living a full life means taking risks, stepping outside your comfort zone, and actively pursuing your interests and things that make you come alive. Maybe most importantly, it requires a willingness to embrace the unpredictability of life. Remember, I said embrace, not tolerate. This goes back to my saying

“Chaos — Good News”

It’s about finding a sense of purpose and meaning that resonates with your values and personal aspirations. Identifying these things is the first step to making a good life:

• What is important to you?
• What do you stand for?
• What part of you have you neglected but still means a lot to you?

To make a life you desire, we must first understand that everything is transient and impermanent, so we must focus on what we can control and let go of what we cannot. To me, this is the core of Stoicism

Stoics also stress living a virtuous life.

According to the Stoics, the virtues of wisdom, courage, justice, and self-control, are the key to a meaningful life.

Finally, another important practice is to reflect on our mortality, recognizing that our time on earth is limited and that we should make the most of every day.