The Stoic Magazine Library

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

While each of us is called to our own lives, and while our life circumstances and experiences will be different, we will always have the option to be joyful – even in the face of extreme difficulty.

While each of us is called to our own lives, and while our life circumstances and experiences will be different, we will always have the option to be joyful – even in the face of extreme difficulty.

A Stoic can be ambitious and successful, provided that their ambition remains in service of virtue rather than the other way around.

What is important is to realize we are constantly making snap judgments and kicking our emotions into overdrive about others and anything in life. Instead of having pity, regarding the beggar, we can potentially think of the obligation we may have to help the person.

By treating Stoicism as a means to an end, it sharpens the wrong side of the blade. It makes us more likely to harm others by committing immoral and vicious acts exceedingly well.

By acting in service to others, you are acting in service to yourself. In directing your energies outward, you are improving yourself inwardly.

Each of the four cardinal virtues includes a number of subordinate virtues.

Stoicism invites you to start now. Choose your response. Hold your ground. Act with integrity. You may not change the whole system–but you will change the atmosphere.

Stoic leadership can be as massive as Marcus Aurelius commanding Roman legions, or as quiet as taking a moment to check in on those we are called to guide.

Leaders liſt others through empathy, shaping trust with character—not mere tasks. It’s inspiring via courage, accountability, justice, and calm, reflecting timeless virtue

“A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of others. He does not set out to be a leader, but becomes one by the equality of his actions and the integrity of his intent.” - Douglas MacArthur