Advice from Stoicism

[unctarheel1984]

I’ll post one each day for comment or criticism.

To grossly oversimplify, Stoicism is a philosophical movement and practical guide to living, emphasizing daily self-discipline and moral improvement, which originated in the Hellenistic period of ancient Greece and proliferated well into the Roman Imperial period. The ancient Stoics believed that the universe operated according to reason, or logos, providing a unified account of the world, constructed from ideals of rational discourse, monistic physics, and naturalistic ethics. These ideals constitute virtue, which is necessary for the Stoic goal of 'living a well-reasoned life'.

A more in depth look at Stoicism: https://dailystoic.com/what-is-stoicism-a-definition-3-stoic-exercises-to-get-you-started/

 

[unctarheel1984]

1. Focus on What You Can Control​

The Stoics believed that much of life is beyond our control. This core Stoic principle emphasizes focusing energy on what we can influence, rather than wasting time and emotion on what we cannot. In business, many external factors—such as the economy, market trends, or even political decisions—are outside our control. Rather than getting paralyzed by these, it’s more productive to focus on immediate, actionable tasks, such as improving customer service, optimizing internal processes, or building better relationships with clients. This philosophy encourages decision-makers to direct their attention to things they can improve.

Leaders who focus on controlling their response to challenges—rather than the challenges themselves—are more resilient and effective in their decision-making.

 

[FreeLunch]

I’ll post one each day for comment or criticism.

To grossly oversimplify, Stoicism is a philosophical movement and practical guide to living, emphasizing daily self-discipline and moral improvement, which originated in the Hellenistic period of ancient Greece and proliferated well into the Roman Imperial period. The ancient Stoics believed that the universe operated according to reason, or logos, providing a unified account of the world, constructed from ideals of rational discourse, monistic physics, and naturalistic ethics. These ideals constitute virtue, which is necessary for the Stoic goal of 'living a well-reasoned life'.

A more in depth look at Stoicism: https://dailystoic.com/what-is-stoicism-a-definition-3-stoic-exercises-to-get-you-started/

Lots of wisdom here.

It's tough to always follow Stoicism’s precepts every day though.

 

[unctarheel1984]

I wonder the significance of the book including 366 meditations when a year has 365 days. It’s like we got a bonus! Extra innings. Overtime. Stoppage Time.

 

[FreeLunch]

I have a well worn copy of The Daily Stoic in the file cabinet next to my desk. I think I'm in my fifth year of reading it from January - December. I don't read it a page or day at a time anymore. But I keep up with it every week or so.

I also never the leave the house without my Stoicism coin my pocket --> Courage .... Justice ... Temperance ... and ... Wisdom. Perhaps a little bit of it rubs off on me from time to time.

 

[unctarheel1984]

2. You Can’t Learn What You Think You Already Know​

A powerful Stoic principle is acknowledging the limits of one’s knowledge. Marcus Aurelius frequently reminded himself of the importance of staying humble and open to learning. This humility is essential for business leaders. No matter how experienced or knowledgeable you are, there’s always something new to learn.

 

[unctarheel1984]

3. Be Tolerant With Others and Strict With Yourself​

This Stoic guideline encourages leaders to maintain high standards for their own conduct while showing empathy and understanding toward others. People come from diverse backgrounds, each with their own experiences and struggles. It’s essential to be patient and supportive, understanding that not everyone will work or think the same way you do.

Holding yourself to a higher standard ensures that you lead by example. By focusing on improving your own performance while remaining empathetic toward the challenges of others, you create a culture of accountability balanced by compassion.

 

[unctarheel1984]

4. Associate Only With People Who Improve You​

Surrounding yourself with the right people is crucial in both personal and business life. The Stoics emphasized the importance of building relationships with individuals who challenge and elevate you. Associate with colleagues, mentors, and people who push you to be better, not those who drag you down.

 

[unctarheel1984]

5. The Greatest Remedy for Anger is Delay​

One of the simplest yet most powerful Stoic teachings is that reacting impulsively to anger almost always leads to regret. Whether it’s an employee mistake, a difficult client, a frustrating business situation, or in personal relationships, reacting out of anger rarely improves the outcome. Taking a moment to step back, breathe, and process the situation allows for a more thoughtful and effective response.

Emotional intelligence is key. The ability to delay emotional reactions and approach problems with a calm, rational mindset can make the difference between resolving an issue and escalating it.


THIS IS PARTUCULARLY TRUE ON SOCIAL MEDIA AND MESSAGE BOARDS. I OFTEN BLOW HOT, BUT I AM TRYING TO DO BETTER.

 

[Etownheels]

5. The Greatest Remedy for Anger is Delay​

One of the simplest yet most powerful Stoic teachings is that reacting impulsively to anger almost always leads to regret. Whether it’s an employee mistake, a difficult client, a frustrating business situation, or in personal relationships, reacting out of anger rarely improves the outcome. Taking a moment to step back, breathe, and process the situation allows for a more thoughtful and effective response.

Emotional intelligence is key. The ability to delay emotional reactions and approach problems with a calm, rational mindset can make the difference between resolving an issue and escalating it.
View attachment 1380896

THIS IS PARTUCULARLY TRUE ON SOCIAL MEDIA AND MESSAGE BOARDS. I OFTEN BLOW HOT, BUT I AM TRYING TO DO BETTER.

This one tenet has helped me more than anything over the past two years. Being honest enough to admit your weakness here is one of the best gifts you can give yourself and those around you. Thanks for posting.

 

[unctarheel1984]

6. Never Be Heard Complaining, Even to Yourself​

Complaining is counterproductive. Marcus Aurelius advised against indulging in negative thinking because it creates a downward spiral that prevents growth. Persistent negativity is demoralizing, fosters a toxic environment, and cloud your ability to find solutions. Complaining about issues without proposing solutions wastes time and energy.

A more effective approach is to focus on problem-solving. When faced with a challenge, concentrate on finding actionable steps forward, even if they are small. This not only improves your own mindset but also sets a positive example for others.

 

[unctarheel1984]

Sorry. I got lost for a bit.

7. Think Progress, Not Perfection​

Perfection is often the enemy of progress. Stoicism teaches us to strive for continuous improvement rather than waiting for things to be perfect before taking action. Begin and refine along the way. Waiting for the perfect moment often results in missed opportunities. Instead, focusing on progress ensures that you’re always moving forward.

 

[Forever 52]

“Associate only with people that improve you”

this doesn’t mean surround yourself with “yes men”, or those that always agree with you.
people that have improved me the most throughout life, have been the ones who challenged my thinking, or were negative, condescending, or just mean.

these people helped me solidify my confidence in myself.

negative people are everywhere, and it is inevitable that we associate with them. And there is much for us to learn from them, so I understand the premise of this quote, but it must be understood that improvement comes from all directions, and associating with all types of people.

the key is being able to recognize and apply what you learn from all people, to your own development.

 

[unctarheel1984]

One of my favorites because it combines so many of the other tenants of stoicism:

8. The Obstacle is the Way​

Obstacles and challenges are inevitable, but the Stoics believed that these barriers can be opportunities for growth. As Marcus Aurelius said, “The impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way.”

In that light, every challenge can be an opportunity to innovate and improve. Whether it’s family discord, work disruptions, internal challenges, or financial setbacks, viewing obstacles as learning experiences fosters resilience and long-term success.

 

[unctarheel1984]

9. Don’t Be Ashamed of Needing Help​

A key element of Stoicism is acknowledging when you need help. Too often, leaders feel pressured to appear invulnerable or all-knowing, but this mindset limits growth. In reality, asking for help demonstrates strength and self-awareness.

By seeking out advice and learning from others, we can gain new perspectives, identify blind spots, and find better solutions to challenges. This humility fosters growth and builds stronger relationships and partnerships, where collaboration and mutual support are valued.

 

[unctarheel1984]

10. Build a Life You Don’t Need an Escape From​

Finally, Stoicism emphasizes the importance of aligning your life with your values so that you find fulfillment in everyday actions. If your work feels like a burden, or if you’re always longing for the weekend, it’s time to reassess your approach.
Building a life—personally and professionally—that you don’t need to escape from means finding joy, aligning your work with your passions, and cultivating balance. Those who build meaningful, fulfilling lives are more likely to achieve lasting success.