I have been reading more Stoic philosophy and teachings this week. We all live in a world filled with uncertainty, and ever-changing circumstances, the wisdom of the Stoics remains as relevant as ever to me and many other students of Stoicism.
This quote specifically has been on my mind this week: “You have power over your mind – not external events. This gives me strength when faced with events out of my control.
Understanding Your Sphere of Control
At first glance, Marcus Aurelius’s words may seem simplistic, but they hold a profound truth that we often overlook. Stoicism, as a philosophy, emphasizes the dichotomy of control: some things are within our control, while others are not. The external world—events, people, and circumstances—lies outside our sphere of control. It is, by its nature, unpredictable and beyond our influence.
However, the one thing we do possess absolute control over is our mind—the inner realm where thoughts, emotions, and decisions originate. Our reactions to external events are entirely within our grasp. This realization is where our true strength lies.
The Power of Perspective
Imagine a scenario where you’re stuck in traffic, running late for an important meeting. Your initial reaction might be frustration, anger, and stress. These emotions can cloud your judgment and negatively impact your well-being. However, taking a page from the Stoic playbook, you can shift your perspective.
Recognize that the traffic jam is an external event, beyond your control. Instead of allowing it to dictate your emotions, focus on what you can control—your reaction. Use this time in traffic to practice mindfulness, listen to an educational podcast, or simply accept the situation with equanimity. By doing so, you’re harnessing the power of your mind to transform a potentially stressful situation into an opportunity for personal growth and serenity.
Finding Strength in Acceptance
Marcus Aurelius’s wisdom extends beyond day-to-day inconveniences. It applies to life’s most significant challenges—loss, adversity, and hardship. While we cannot control the occurrence of these events, we have the power to choose our response.
When faced with adversity, Stoicism teaches us to embrace it as an opportunity for growth and self-improvement. By accepting the external events as they are and focusing on our inner strength, we can find the resilience to endure and even thrive in the face of adversity.
Values and principles
To apply this Stoic principle in our daily lives, we must cultivate mindfulness and self-awareness. Regularly reflect on what is within your control and what is not. When external events threaten to overwhelm you, take a step back, breathe, and choose a response that aligns with your values and principles.
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