Whatever you experience in life, you can use Stoicism to master your inner dialogue. 

In discussions with others about Stoicism, I have encountered some who question the value and relevance of the philosophy. They argue it is pointless and obscure. Similarly, when considering the application of Stoic philosophy to our own lives, one might think, “I’m not a philosopher. I haven’t formulated any theories or principles related to Stoicism.”

The previous thoughts may breed frustration or block our embrace of Stoicism. It is common for us to perceive Marcus Aurelius as a Stoic philosopher. However, it is important to note that he did not author any new Stoic doctrine. Stoicism influenced his writings, but he did not introduce any novel Stoic ideas. Similar to us, he endeavoured to apply the philosophy, sometimes not to his wanting. We should also view ourselves as Stoic philosophers. It is irrelevant whether we possess a degree or extensive education in Stoicism. The very act of striving to incorporate this ancient philosophy consistently into our own lives is a testament to our role as philosophers!

Outdated books, ancient dudes?

Philosophy puts some people off because they associate it with outdated books, “ancient dudes,” and abstract concepts that don’t seem to offer any practical value. However, this is not the case with Stoicism. Stoicism offers many practical ideas applicable to every aspect of our lives. Stoic philosophy applies to everything because it directly influences the most crucial element in our well-being: mastering our inner dialogue. The way we talk to ourselves and interpret our experiences ultimately becomes the dominant narrative. Like painters, we create the colour, composition, and texture that formulates the meaning in everything we experience.

You’re in control 

What thoughts do you have about the experiences you’ve had in life, or those that are currently happening? Stoic philosophy teaches us that our own judgments and interpretations shape our experiences. This concept can be difficult for many to embrace because it implies that we have control, even when we may not desire it. It can be more comforting to abdicate and outsource our emotions and well-being to external factors. Sometimes, we may not even realize we’re doing this and then complain that “we had no other choice.”

While I was finishing my grocery shopping right after Thanksgiving, the store cashier told me how people are at their worst during the holidays. According to him, they become ruder: more abrupt, crankier, and less patient. To illustrate his point, he shared an incident from earlier that morning when store employees had to intervene in a fight between two customers at the self-checkout line. One customer felt offended because he believed the other had cut in front of him. If we were to ask the customers about their thoughts, they might have said something like, “He cut me off! I was all ready to check out and he just jumped ahead of me, which I found completely unacceptable. I wasn’t going to let it slide, especially after the disrespectful remark he made. I decided to confront him, even if it meant getting into a fight.” The other may have said, “He was the one who instigated it.” 

The two customers reacted emotionally. One customer believed someone unfairly cut him in line, while the other may have felt confronted and needed to defend himself. Despite the potential consequences, they escalated the situation. In their judgments, occurring within seconds, there were no other options available.

Stoic “override” 

We can apply these principles to anything in our lives. Sometimes, we may feel like there’s only one way to react in certain situations. We may even go to great lengths to justify our emotions, judgments, and behaviour. However, Stoicism teaches us we do have choices. We have ultimate control, even in the most difficult situations. As I remind myself and others, “there’s an override button in your mind, if you choose to use it.” Of course, this requires courage, self-control and self-awareness. Implementing this philosophy can be challenging because it goes against the often-irrational tendencies that are inherent to humans. That’s why it’s important for us to review Stoic concepts consistently, so that we can easily draw upon them when faced with challenging situations.

It doesn’t matter if these situations involve an “injustice” in the checkout line, challenges at work, dealing with a chronic illness, or the passing of a loved one. Choose a life event, and I’m confident you can apply a Stoic principle if you look hard enough. By transforming your thoughts, you can transform your life for the better through Stoicism. 

Let these thoughts set your mind at ease, and keep them as your guiding principles. Thirst no more for books, so that you will not die mumbling to yourself, but at peace, truly, and with your heart full of Thanksgiving to the gods. - Marcus Aurelius, Meditations, 2.3 

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