Useful Habits That Give You Peace in Everyday Life
Have you ever been on a pier? Have you noticed the large rocks that the sea crashes against?
It's remarkable how those rocks endure. Regardless of strong winds or towering waves, they remain unmoved. They stay firm and grounded, even when storms rage around them.
I aspire to be like those stones. To possess the strength to remain steady when life's challenges confront me. Perhaps you can envision that too.
One path to becoming like those resilient rocks is through studying Stoic philosophy and applying its principles in daily life. Stoicism has ancient roots, with thinkers like Epictetus, Seneca, and Marcus Aurelius advocating its wisdom.
Recently, it has gained traction as a way to find peace in today's chaotic world. One of the top-selling non-fiction books in Denmark in 2020 focused on Stoicism, and American author Ryan Holiday has written influential works like The Obstacle is the Way and The Daily Stoic, both of which are bestsellers worldwide.
Living with Stoicism It is appealing to utilize an ancient philosophy to guide us in modern times. I have found value in starting my life with a Stoic perspective, yet I also struggle to apply its teachings about facing life’s storms with calmness. One question I often contemplate is:
How can this be done in practical terms? What does it mean to live stoically in everyday situations?
Below are seven practical suggestions inspired by Ryan Holiday's work that can help you live more stoically in the coming week and beyond.
Wake up early The Stoics emphasized rising early. Marcus Aurelius mentioned it in his Meditations, while Seneca noted that the day slips away if we lounge in bed. He believed that starting the day with calm leads to better outcomes.
In one of his famous letters, he remarked that beginnings and endings are often the most beautiful moments. I agree with this. Think of sunrises and sunsets—the colors in the sky create a stunning display, and nature's quietness can bring peace to you.
The early morning offers tranquility, free from distractions and calls. Many people start the day feeling hurried and behind. By waking up early, you can get ahead. This time allows for personal pursuits that bring joy and calm, setting a positive tone for your day. Many Stoics, both past and present, begin their mornings with journaling.
It is described morning journaling as spiritual windshield wipers, a fitting metaphor. This Stoic practice fosters inner peace and provides clarity for thoughts. Embrace this time as you write in your journal.
Tip: Set your alarm 30 minutes earlier tomorrow. Sit quietly and write in your journal.
Manage your expectations Seneca observed that a common excuse among generals after a defeat was, “I didn’t think that would happen.”
Stoics prefer to be pleasantly surprised rather than face disappointment. This mindset helps prepare for life’s unpredictability. Days often don’t unfold as we expect, and being ready helps us cope with challenges.
This approach doesn't mean we should fret unnecessarily. Instead, it’s about being prepared, standing firm like a stone on the pier, and living stoically. When your train is delayed by 20 minutes, instead of feeling upset, you can appreciate that it wasn’t a longer wait.
Tip: Reflect on this question: What is the worst that can happen in the coming days?
This is an insightful article on applying Stoic philosophy to find inner peace in our daily lives. I especially appreciate the practical tips, like waking up early to start the day with calm and clarity through journaling.
The analogy of being like unmovable stones weathering life's storms is powerful. Mentally preparing for challenges and managing expectations, as the Stoics advise, can help us face difficulties with greater equanimity.
Adopting these Stoic-inspired habits, even in small ways, seems like a valuable approach to cultivating a more tranquil and resilient mindset. I'll aim to try some of these practices, like rising earlier and reflecting on potential obstacles, in my own life.
Thanks for sharing these thought-provoking ideas and relatable wisdom for navigating the stresses of the modern world. Posts like these are always helpful reminders to tend to our inner wellbeing.