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  • 5/24/2025


TAGS: #stoic #stoicresilience #stoicism #greekphilosophy #stoicphilosophy #motivation # stoicismquote #stoicquotes #stoicmindset
Transcript
00:00What brings you happiness? Is it your family or loved ones? Is it money or is it simply peace of
00:05mind? The ancient Stoics, such as Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and Epictetus, had a different definition
00:12of true happiness. They didn't perceive happiness in the way the media portrays it today or the way
00:17most people understand it. So, how can you achieve happiness the way the Stoics did?
00:23Today, we will share with you 10 tested Stoic principles that can help you become genuinely
00:29happier in 2024. These principles are so powerful and practical that even if you apply just two of
00:36them, they could change your life forever. So, buckle up and stay attentive because this is going
00:43to be a life-changing experience. Let our journey begin. Principle 1. Stop doubting yourself. Start
00:52believing doubt is a formidable foe, often lurking in our minds like an unwelcome guest. However,
00:59the key isn't about completely eradicating doubt. It's about managing it with a Stoic mindset.
01:05Even the Stoics weren't immune to self-doubt, but they knew the art of harnessing it.
01:11Take Marcus Aurelius, for instance, a man who ruled an empire, yet found time to question and
01:17counsel himself. His approach wasn't about ignoring doubt, but about challenging it. He would ask,
01:23is this thought beneficial? Does it improve or hinder my life? This is a cue for us. When doubt creeps in,
01:33confront it with these questions, transforming it from an obstacle into a tool for self-reflection
01:39and growth. It's humorous how we often magnify our doubts while the solutions are simpler than we think.
01:45Aurelius mused, our life is what our thoughts make it. These words aren't just poetic, they're a practical mantra.
01:55Picture this. You're about to start a new project or take up a new hobby. Doubt whispers. You can't.
02:03Here's where you flip the script. Acknowledge the doubt, then counter it with evidence of your past successes,
02:10however small they might seem. This simple act of self-belief can be the first step toward a happier
02:17you. Remember, happiness doesn't come from the absence of doubt, but from your ability to believe
02:23in yourself despite it. Principle two. Reflect on your life. Have you ever paused your Netflix binge to
02:33wonder, is this it? Reflecting on your life doesn't mean you have to climb a mountain and meditate.
02:41It's about taking a moment, maybe while sipping your morning coffee, to ask yourself some serious
02:46questions. What makes me get out of bed every morning? Why do I act the way I do? Now, imagine
02:54your life as a movie. Would you watch it or doze off before the opening credits end? Reflecting isn't
03:02about being harsh on yourself. It's about being honest. If your daily routine were a YouTube video,
03:10would you hit the like button or scroll past it? Remember, you're the director of this show.
03:16It's in your hands to make it binge-worthy. Let's talk dreams. Not the weird ones about showing up to
03:23work in your pajamas, but your real, I want this so bad dreams. Are they sitting on a shelf collecting dust?
03:31It's time to dust them off and break them down into steps as simple as your morning to-do list.
03:38Think about it. If you can remember to charge your phone every night, you can definitely take small
03:44steps towards your dreams. Your life story is yours to write, so make it one you'd love to tell.
03:50Principle three. Focus on what you can control. Life's unpredictability can sometimes feel
04:00overwhelming, but there's a secret to staying serene. Focus on what you can control. Just like
04:07when you're playing a video game, you can't control the design of the levels or the behavior of other
04:13players, but you can master your moves. Similarly, in life, concentrate on your actions, thoughts,
04:21and attitudes. These are your joystick and buttons. Use them wisely. Seneca, a well-known Stoic philosopher,
04:30once found himself exiled. Most would see exile as a loss of control, but not Seneca. He turned inward,
04:37focusing on his writing and thoughts, cultivating his inner garden. This wasn't a retreat, but a
04:44strategic focus on what he could control. His writings from this period are a testament to the
04:50power of directing energy where it matters most. It's a lesson as relevant today as it was in ancient
04:56Rome. Some things are in our control and others not. A quote often attributed to Epictetus encapsulates
05:05the essence of Stoicism. Epictetus himself knew the limits of his control and focused instead on his
05:11inner life, thoughts, and responses. In embracing this philosophy, we too can become not just happier,
05:19but also more content and resilient. Remember, it's not about controlling the storm, but about learning
05:27to dance in the rain. Principle four, be kind to others. There's a famous saying, you get what you
05:36give. Imagine throwing a pebble into a lake. The ripples it creates spread far and wide, reaching places
05:43the pebble never could. That's the power of doing good to others. Every small act of kindness, whether
05:50it's holding the door for someone or sharing a smile, creates ripples in the world around us.
05:56It's not about grand gestures. It's the everyday kindness that truly counts. By making someone
06:03else's day a little brighter, we inadvertently light up our own. Now, here's the catch. The good you do
06:11often finds its way back to you, but not always in the way you expect. It's like throwing a boomerang of
06:19kindness. It will return, sometimes in the form of a thankful smile, other times as a helping hand
06:26when you least expect it. This isn't about keeping score, but rather understanding that our actions
06:32contribute to a kinder, more compassionate world. And in this world, happiness finds fertile ground to grow.
06:41Seneca, who understood the power of benevolence, once said,
06:44Wherever there is a human being, there is an opportunity for kindness. He didn't just preach.
06:52He practiced generosity and kindness, often advising and helping others without expecting
06:57anything in return. His life teaches us that true happiness doesn't come from what we acquire,
07:03but from what we give. Let's walk into 2024 with open hearts, ready to spread kindness.
07:10After all, a good deed is a step towards a happier life. Principle 5. Do less, but do it better.
07:20Ever try juggling? Start with too many balls and they all end up on the floor. Life's a bit like that.
07:27Trying to do everything often leads to achieving little. The key lies in doing less, but doing it
07:32better. It's not about the quantity of tasks, but the quality of your engagement. Choose a few things
07:39that truly matter to you and give them your all. This focused approach not only enhances your skills,
07:46but also brings a deeper sense of satisfaction and accomplishment.
07:51Simplifying life isn't about having less. It's about having more of what counts.
07:57Trim down your to-do list to the essentials. Like a sculptor chiseling away the excess to reveal a beautiful statue.
08:03Remove the unnecessary from your life to uncover your true priorities. This clarity leads to action,
08:11and action leads to happiness. By focusing on fewer things, you can channel your energy more effectively,
08:18making each effort count. Marcus Aurelius once said,
08:21Concentrate every minute, like a Roman, on doing what's in front of you with precise and genuine
08:27seriousness, tenderly, willingly, and with justice. He was not just a ruler of an empire, but also a ruler
08:35of his time and focus. He prioritized, deliberated, and acted with intention. In our pursuit of happiness,
08:42let's remember his wisdom. By focusing on doing less but doing it better, we open ourselves to a world of
08:50excellence and contentment. So let's narrow our gaze to broaden our impact.
08:55Principle six, be grateful. Let's take a moment and think about gratitude. It's like finding a five
09:02dollar bill in your old jacket. It was always there, but the moment you find it, your day gets a little
09:08brighter. That's what gratitude does to life. It's about appreciating the small things, a warm cup of
09:16coffee, a text from a friend, the sunset. When you start noticing and being thankful for these moments,
09:23life suddenly becomes richer. It's not about waiting for big things to happen. It's about finding joy in
09:30the ordinary. Now, how do you make gratitude a habit? It's actually simple. You could keep a gratitude
09:38journal. Each night, jot down something you were grateful for that day. It could be as simple as
09:45enjoying a quiet moment or as big as achieving a personal goal. This practice shifts your focus from
09:51what's missing to what's present in your life. And trust me, the more you look for things to be
09:57grateful for, the more you find them. Epictetus once remarked, he is a wise man who does not grieve for
10:05the things which he is not, but rejoices for those which he has. This man found richness in his simple,
10:13constrained life by focusing on what he had, not what he lacked. His message to us in 2024 is clear.
10:22Let's embrace gratitude. By recognizing and cherishing the abundance in our lives, we open doors to happiness
10:30and contentment. It's important to keep in mind that it's not happiness that brings gratitude, but gratitude
10:37that brings happiness. Principle seven, stop seeking external approval. Ah, the quest for external approval.
10:47It's like chasing a shadow that always eludes us. Stoicism, an ancient philosophy that's surprisingly relevant
10:54in our lives, teaches us a powerful lesson here. First off, let's get real. Everyone, at some point,
11:03craves a thumbs up from others. But here's the twist. Stoicism nudges us to flip the script.
11:11It's about looking inward for validation, not outward. Imagine your self-worth as a fortress.
11:17Why let someone else hold the keys? Now, on to the practical stuff. How do you actually stop this
11:27approval-seeking mission? Start by recognizing your own achievements no matter how small. Did you make your bed
11:35this morning? That's a win. Take a moment to appreciate these tiny victories. They add up. Trust me, it's like
11:45building a mental muscle. One where you're the coach and the cheerleader. And when you feel the urge to
11:50fish for compliments or likes on social media, pause. Ask yourself, am I doing this for me or for the
11:58gram? Here's a little stoic secret. Your opinion is the one that truly matters. Every day, try to do
12:06something that makes you proud. Not for the applause, but for your own sense of achievement. It's about
12:13rewiring our brains to seek internal rather than external validation. Think of it as mental
12:20decluttering, less focus on others' opinions, more space for your own growth. It's not about
12:26becoming indifferent to others, but about being true to yourself. This shift in mindset is not just
12:33liberating. It's empowering. Principle 8. Challenge yourself. Imagine you're climbing a mountain.
12:41It's steep, challenging, and at times you wonder why you even started. But here's the thing.
12:48Every step up that mountain makes you stronger and more resilient. Stoicism, a philosophy as old
12:54as the hills yet as fresh as tomorrow's sunrise, tells us that life's true fulfillment comes from
13:01overcoming challenges, not avoiding them. So in 2024, let's turn our daily grind into our personal
13:09Everest. Now you might be thinking easier said than done, right? Well, stoicism isn't about transforming
13:16overnight. It's about small, steady changes. Start by setting a goal that pushes your limits yet is
13:23achievable. It could be learning a new skill, improving your fitness, or even just reading a book a month.
13:29The key isn't the goal itself, but the growth that comes from reaching for it. Each small victory
13:36is a step up your mountain. Do remember, climbing a mountain isn't a solo journey. Share your challenges
13:45and your victories with others. Stoicism teaches us the power of community and support. By sharing your
13:52journey, you not only gain allies, but also inspire others to start their own climbs. So as we step into
14:002024, let's challenge ourselves, support each other, and enjoy the view from our personal summits.
14:08Happy climbing!
14:10Principle 9. Laugh
14:11More laughing more isn't just a cheerful suggestion. It's a cornerstone of a contented life, echoing the
14:20wisdom of the ancient Stoics. Take Chrysippus, a Stoic philosopher who reportedly died of laughter.
14:28While that's an extreme example, it underscores a profound truth. Laughter is serious business.
14:36It's a tool that lightens our burdens and brings perspective to our challenges.
14:41Just imagine for a moment the absurdity of life's little dramas seen through a lens of humor.
14:47Your coffee spills and instead of frustration, there's a chuckle about the universe's quirky
14:52timing. That's Stoicism in action, reminding us that not everything deserves a furrowed brow.
15:00Now, how do you fit more laughter into the puzzle of modern life? It's simpler than you might think.
15:07Start by seeking the light-hearted side of daily situations. Stuck in a traffic jam?
15:13It's a chance to play your favorite comedy podcast. Had a tough day at work? Swap stories with friends
15:21about who had the most bizarre encounter? This isn't about ignoring life's complexities,
15:26but about choosing a joyful perspective. It's a practical Stoic approach. Control what you can,
15:34your outlook and reaction, and let go of what you can't. Laughter is a shared melody.
15:40It connects us, making our collective journey a bit brighter. So next time you find something
15:46amusing, share it. Be that person who brings a smile to others. Your laughter becomes a ripple,
15:52touching lives in ways you might never see. That's the essence of Stoicism, finding harmony within
15:59and spreading it outward. It's not just about enduring life stoically, but embracing it joyously.
16:06So go ahead, laugh a bit more. It's not just good for the soul. It's wisdom echoing through the ages.
16:14Principle 10. Love your fate.
16:18Love your fate. It sounds like a tall order, right? Yet this is where the ancient wisdom of Stoicism
16:24intersects with our fast-paced, tech-savvy world. Stoicism isn't about suppressing emotions or
16:30enduring pain with a stiff upper lip. It's about embracing whatever life throws at you with a
16:36positive spirit. Think of it like surfing. Waves will come big and small, but it's your skill in
16:43riding them that counts, not the size of the wave. So how do you love your fate in a world where your
16:50fate can include anything from a missed Uber to a critical email disappearing into the digital abyss?
16:55Start by reframing your mindset. When something doesn't go your way, see it as an opportunity
17:03to grow. Miss that Uber? It's a chance to take a brisk walk and enjoy some fresh air.
17:11Email vanished? Time to improve your tech skills. It's not about being blindly optimistic,
17:17but about finding the silver lining in every cloud. This approach is not just about making the best of a
17:23bad situation. It's about transforming challenges into stepping stones. Marcus Aurelius, a Stoic
17:32philosopher and Roman emperor, wisely noted that what stands in the way becomes the way.
17:38This means that the very obstacles you face can pave your path to success. Next time your Wi-Fi acts up
17:45during an important call, instead of fuming, take a moment to appreciate the unplugged world.
17:51Maybe strike up a conversation with someone nearby or jot down those creative ideas you've been
17:56postponing. In essence, loving your fate is about embracing life's unpredictable nature with agility
18:03and grace. It's choosing to dance in the rain instead of waiting for the storm to pass. As we step into
18:112024, remember, life is not just happening to you. It's happening for you. Every twist, turn,
18:19and tumble is an invitation to grow stronger, wiser, and happier. So surf those waves with a smile and
18:27watch how your world transforms. Conclusion
18:31As we wrap up this journey through the principles of Stoicism in our quest for a happier 2025, remember that the
18:39power to shape your happiness lies within you. Like the ancient Stoics taught, focus on what's in your
18:45control, let go of what isn't, and embrace the present. Life is full of unexpected twists, but with a Stoic
18:53mindset, you're equipped to navigate them with calm and wisdom. If you found value in our discussion,
19:00please hit that like button, subscribe for more insights, and don't forget to ring the notification
19:06bell to stay updated. Every step you take towards understanding Stoicism brings you closer to a more
19:14serene and fulfilled life. Here's to a brighter, happier you in 2025.

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