Thinking About Your Thoughts: The Stoic Way
What Stoicism Teaches Us
Stoicism says we should take time each day to look at our thoughts and actions. This is like being a detective of your own mind! When we pay attention to what we're thinking and doing, we can spot ways to become better people. This helps us become stronger when life gets tough.
My Journey with Stoic Thinking
I was supposed to write this article by Wednesday, but it's Friday now. Why am I late? Well, my seven-year-old was with me this week, and being a parent takes a lot of attention! Also, I don't like following schedules - even ones I make for myself. If someone tells me to do something, I often want to do the opposite. I think this comes from growing up with ADHD that nobody knew about. Now I see my ADHD as a gift, but it wasn't easy when I was young.
See how easily I get distracted? I'm supposed to be talking about how paying attention to our thoughts helps us live better.
How Watching Your Thoughts Changes Everything
Since I started learning about Stoicism and practicing mindfulness (which means paying attention to right now instead of worrying about yesterday or tomorrow), my life has changed in big ways:
I worry less. When something upsets me, I ask, "Can I change this?" If yes, I take action. If no, I let it go. This is the biggest lesson from Stoicism - focus on what you can control, and don't waste energy on what you can't.
I get more done. This wasn't even my main goal, but it happened anyway! When my mind isn't jumping between worries, I can focus better.
I keep my pride in check. The book "Ego is The Enemy" by Ryan Holiday taught me a lot about this. Pride can make us unhappy when things don't go our way.
Where Stress Really Comes From
Most stress starts in our own minds. Our thoughts create feelings, and feelings can create stress. The only exception is real danger - like if a tiger were chasing you!
Think about this: If you have good friends and family who care about you, would they let you go hungry or homeless? If you think they would, maybe it's time to find better friends. People and relationships are worth more than any amount of money. If money disappeared tomorrow, caring people would still be there to help each other.
Writing From the Heart
You might wonder what all this has to do with watching your thoughts. Well, I sat quietly, paid attention to my thoughts, and this is what came out. From now on, I'll write from my heart while still teaching you about Stoicism.
Thank you for reading. I hope this helps you or at least entertains you. Whatever you do, never stop learning and loving.
Source: Ideas inspired by "The Complete Stoicism Collection" by Ken Grezin, which includes translations of works by Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and Epictetus.