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Basic Steps to Stoicism


 Stoicism is an ancient philosophy dating back to 300 B.C. that focuses on reframing the mind to not react to what we cannot control. It's a philosophy designed to make us more resilient, happier, more virtuous, and wiser, and the result is better people, better parents, and better professionals. Stoicism has been a common thread through some of history's greatest leaders. It has been practiced by Kings, presidents, entrepreneurs, and the Veteran Warrior Class. Here are just a few steps to get you started on your stoic journey:


Accept what you cannot change

Some things we can not change, and some things are out of control, even utilizing extreme problem-solving skills, I would put those problems on the back burner and focus instead on things you can control, like your own choices and judgments, by focusing on what you can control, you can then do your best to flip the script, transfigure the negatives into a positive. In every change, even changes that seem to be obstacles, there is an opportunity to practice virtue and better ourselves. Embracing the change and finding how to use it for your benefit, is a very stoic mindset.


Self-awareness

People become comfortable with patterned behaviors and responses. Self-awareness and cross examining of your own sense perceptions can break you out of tunnel vision. I agree with Newton's third law, which states that for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. The "action" and "reaction" refer to forces; if Object A exerts a force on Object B, then Object B exerts an equal amount of force on Object A in the opposite direction. Just know that there will be times when its ok to say nothing, to take some distance from a situation and regroup and refocus.


The Cookie Cutter Gang

The cookie-cutter gang comes from the same mold, they may be all the same, may have a different mindset or no mindset at all, they may ramble on meaninglessly, and float through life like a log down the river, letting the waves take them to unknown destinations. It's okay to listen to our internal instincts, and not conform, and compromise your morals.


Be Open to New Knowledge

You can not learn and grow if you think you are a know it all. To cultivate wisdom, you must admit that there is a lot to learn. Educate yourself at every opportunity, such as reading books, listening to podcasts, and watching documentaries.


Fair & Just

Being fair and just harmonizes our actions with the common good and treating others with respect and dignity. The opposite of this is to do what benefits us to the detriment of the community.


Detract From Distractions

Don't sweat the small stuff, wasting time on somebody else's personal soap operas, and the funky stuff happening on the news, don't stress or panic on things that are out of your control.


Be In The Moment

Practice mindfulness, be in the moment, focus on the here and now, and practice gratitude, think about the things that you are grateful for.


Surround Yourself with Positives

Negative people can be contagious, surrounding yourself with positive people can be essential for a fulfilling life. Positive people can have a profound impact on your mindset, mood, and overall well-being, while negative people can drag you down and drain your energy.


Closing

The biggest benefit of stoicism is that you make this particular philosophy come to life! Following in the the footsteps of the great philosophers, Seneca, Marcus Aurelius, and Epictetus, you can also focus on living a life of virtue and having a more meaningful life that is inward and not outward focus. This in turn can enrich your thoughts, actions, and belief system. Practicing Stoicism can also help you navigate more easily through obstacles and in the process help you understand yourself and others.




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