The Stoic Magazine Library

Stoic quotes for every day of the month

Practicing any new philosophy is not easy. So it is natural to look for a supportive environment when we practice a philosophy like Stoicism. But not everyone around us may share our enthusiasm. People close to us, like our family members and friends, maybe indifferent to our practice, may think it is weird, make fun of us, and even be hostile. How do we navigate around this?

How to Think Like Socrates: Ancient Philosophy as a Way of Life in the Modern World by Donald Robertson is a wonderful guide to Socratic thinking.

It’s not my job to evangelize – nor to convert. My responsibility is to do as Marcus suggests, and to be content with the interruptions, diversions, and obstacles.

Practicing Stoicism in a world that may not always understand or appreciate it is, in itself, an act of resilience. It is an opportunity to put Stoic principles to the test, to strengthen one’s character, and to remain unwavering in the pursuit of virtue.

Whether it is by showing kindness to those in suffering, or by going toe to toe with those who cause it, we do what we can not because it will fix the world’s problems, but because it is the right thing to do.

If we’re to inspire by example, we must live our lives in an exemplary way.

One useful way to approach this kind of situation is to ask yourself why it matters to you whether other people understand or even know about Stoicism.

Maintain your Stoic centre to help yourself and loved ones