How can Stoicism be applied to our everyday lives?

First we need to understand what is Stoicism, so here is a brief background.

Stoicism is a philosophy that can help individuals find calmness and wisdom in their daily lives.

Stoicism originated as a Hellenistic philosophy, founded in Athens by Zeno of Citium (modern day Cyprus), c. 300 B.C.E. It was influenced by Socrates and the Cynics, and it engaged in vigorous debates with the Skeptics, the Academics, and the Epicureans.

Stoicism, just like an old reliable walking stick, is a guide to life based on reason rather than faith that supports you in the pursuit of self-mastery, perseverance, patience, and happiness.

Greek philosophers argued that in order to live happier lives we should decide what things we can change and what we cannot.

Once we have distinguished between the two, we can work at changing what is within our power to do so. Then it is easier to accept what we cannot change as part of life. This might sound like airy-fairy nonsense, but it does make a lot of sense when you consider what is actually under our control.

What can’t we control?

• What people think of us.
• Our own bodies.
• The environment
• What people do.

What can we control?

• How we think about all of the above.
• What judgments we make about those thoughts.

Now, with this background, here are some ways in which Stoicism can be applied to everyday life:

1. Realism and Pragmatism: Rather than imagining a perfect world, Stoics practice realism and pragmatism, dealing with the world as it is, while pursuing self-improvement through virtues such as wisdom, courage, and justice1.
2. Control Over Emotions: Stoicism is a philosophical school that helps individuals control negative emotions and be grateful for everything they have now. This involves accepting circumstances that cannot be changed, changing what can be changed, and understanding the difference between the two.
3. Focus on What You Can Control: One of the core tenets of Stoicism is to focus on what you can control and let go of what you cannot. This involves developing an internal locus of control and taking purposeful action.
4. Embrace Challenges: Stoics embrace challenges and see them as opportunities for growth. This involves facing daily challenges and struggles with no complaints.
5. Practice Gratitude: Stoics practice gratitude and understand that in life, nothing is permanent. This involves being present and understanding that what we have can be damaged or lost.
6. Toss Away Ego and Vanity: Stoics emphasize the need to toss away ego and vanity and live life on our own terms. This involves understanding that external events are outside of our control and focusing instead on cultivating an excellent mental state.

Overall, Stoicism can help individuals find calmness and wisdom in a world filled with pain, anxiety, and insatiable desires. By focusing on what can be controlled, embracing challenges, and practicing gratitude, individuals can apply Stoicism to their everyday lives.

If you are looking to use Stoic practices to manage stress and anxiety, you can incorporate the following strategies into your daily life:

1. Divide and Conquer: Break down stressful situations into smaller, manageable parts to tackle them effectively.
2. Dissect the Source: Identify the root cause of your stress and anxiety, and analyze it objectively to gain a better understanding.
3. Use Cognitive Distancing: Practice stepping back from your thoughts and emotions, observing them from a more objective perspective.
4. Practice the Worst Case Scenario: Imagine the worst possible outcome of a situation and mentally prepare yourself to handle it, reducing fear and anxiety.
5. Get Active: Engage in physical activity or exercise to release tension and boost endorphins, which can help alleviate stress.
6. Find a Hobby: Engaging in activities you enjoy can provide a sense of purpose and distraction from stressors.
7. Start Journaling: Write down your thoughts and feelings to gain clarity and perspective on stressful situations.
8. Read a Book: Reading can be a form of escapism and provide a mental break from stress and anxiety.
9. Stop Caring What Other People Think: Focus on your own values and opinions rather than seeking validation from others.
10. Take a Cold Shower: Cold showers can help stimulate the body’s stress response and build resilience to stress.
11. Meditate on Your Mortality: Reflecting on the impermanence of life can help put stressors into perspective and prioritize what truly matters.

These Stoic practices can help you manage stress and anxiety by shifting your mindset, gaining control over your thoughts and emotions, and taking purposeful action. Remember that Stoicism is a philosophy of action, and by applying these practices consistently, you can cultivate a calmer and more resilient mindset.