Some of the most successful leaders in business and government attribute their achievements to surrounding themselves with people who are even more knowledgeable than they are. Rather than just acknowledging their own blind spots, they actively seek insights from those who excel in areas where they lack expertise. Recognizing that you don’t know everything is a mark of true wisdom. For Stoics, seeking outside input means considering two crucial factors: the quality of the information and the extent to which it should be trusted.

Marcus Aurelius, often considered the greatest Stoic leader in history, offered a pointed observation on the topic:

It never ceases to amaze me: we all love ourselves more than other people, but care more about their opinion than our own. – Marcus Aurelius, Meditations, XII, IV

Whether this is an indictment of our selfish tendencies or a critique of our inconsistency in letting others steer us away from our authentic selves—perhaps both— there is wisdom to extract from either viewpoint.

Seeking counsel from those we trust

Not all opinions carry the same value. Some are rooted in instinct, others in principle, and a rare few in knowledge. The most valuable guidance comes from those who blend principle with expertise. As Stoics, it is wise to seek counsel from those we trust, especially if they are highly knowledgeable, highly principled, or both. The opinions of the masses need not sway us, but if those we trust share a sentiment, it’s worth reflecting upon.

When navigating decisions in areas where we lack critical knowledge, we should seek reliable advice and, when appropriate, rely on it. For instance, when consulting a doctor, I often accept their medical advice at face value since I am not a medical professional. However, if I encounter reasons to question their perspective or recognize its limitations, I don’t dismiss their counsel outright—I seek more context, request a second opinion, or consult a specialist. The key is developing the discernment to identify the right sources of guidance.

Weighing data, beliefs, and principles

Within professional circles, there’s an important distinction between being “data- driven” and “data-informed.” Data-driven organizations act directly on the results provided by information, much like following the consensus of others without deeper analysis. By contrast, data-informed groups consider available information and weigh it against their core principles and beliefs. For Stoics, making decisions— especially those with significant consequences—requires more than relying solely on the opinions and expertise of others, no matter how well-intentioned or experienced they may be.

A Stoic considers trusted advisors’ perspectives but always measures them against personal principles. Suppose someone you deeply trust advises you against doing what is morally right because it may negatively impact you or is likely to fail. Should you heed that advice? For the Stoic, the answer is “no,” because consequentialism does not align with a life rooted in principle. In these situations, it’s best to seek input from those who are both principled and more knowledgeable or experienced. If finding like-minded individuals proves difficult, consider reframing how you seek advice—lead with your principles and ask for guidance that honours those values.

Difference of degree or difference of kind?

Stoics should also discern whether differences of opinion are matters of degree or of kind. For example, if you decide to leave a job for health reasons, some may agree with your choice but suggest not changing careers because you enjoy the work, or they may recommend alternatives such as reasonable accommodations or a leave of absence before resigning outright. These represent differences of degree—they don't force you to abandon your beliefs but may nudge you toward more sustainable options.

By contrast, differences of kind are more fundamental. These arise from those who believe you should stay because the work is too important, or who argue that work shouldn’t affect your health and that you should address your well-being on your own time. At their core, such opinions challenge not only your decision, but also the principles underlying it. A Stoic, firmly grounded in their values, should never compromise those principles based on someone else’s opinion. Encountering fundamental disagreements can also reveal whose advice you should avoid in the future.

Ultimately, in matters of morality, opinions on the appropriate way to act should take precedence over opinions on whether or what you should do.

John Kuna is a Stoic prokopton, writer, and dog lover. He likes digging deep into Stoic theory, but also writing accessible and inspiring Stoic content.

---