The term “Stoic” is often used in everyday conversations to describe someone who can endure hardship or pain without showing their feelings or complaining. However, the philosophy of Stoicism, which originated in ancient Greece and Rome, has practical applications in our modern lives. It is often considered the cornerstone of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

For me, the most important lessons that the ancient Stoics taught us are:

1) Focus on What You Can Control

Stoicism teaches us to focus on what we can control, such as our thoughts and actions, and to let go of what we cannot control, like external events or others' reactions. This approach is empowering, as it helps us focus our energy on what truly matters, reducing stress and anxiety.

2) Meditate on Death

Meditating on death may sound morbid, but it can be a powerful exercise. By acknowledging that our time with loved ones is finite, we become more mindful of how we spend that time, leading to more meaningful and focused interactions.

3) Accept Things as They Are

Stoicism emphasizes accepting things as they are, rather than wishing for them to be different. This mindset helps us avoid labeling situations as good or bad and allows us to focus on how we react to them, fostering a more balanced and resilient outlook on life.

4) Cultivate Self-Control

The Stoics believed that self-control is essential for a virtuous life. By developing discipline and avoiding excess, we can appreciate life's pleasures more deeply. True joy comes not from constant indulgence but from valuing what we have and experiencing it fully.

5) Embrace Reason

Embracing reason means using our minds to understand the world and make decisions rather than being driven by emotions. This rational approach helps us manage negative emotions like depression, anxiety, and anger, allowing us to experience more positive emotions like joy, passion, and love.

6) Live a Virtuous Life

The Stoics believed that the ultimate goal of life is to live virtuously, cultivating qualities like wisdom, courage, justice, and self-control. These virtues guide our actions and thoughts, leading to a more fulfilling and ethical life.

7) Be Part of a Larger Community

Humans are social creatures, and the Stoics emphasized the importance of contributing to the greater good and living harmoniously with others. Positive interactions within a community can boost mental health by releasing serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with well-being.

In my practice, we focus on being forward-looking, but there are times when drawing on ancient philosophies like Stoicism can be incredibly beneficial.

At Navigate The Curve, we empower individuals to live virtuously and with purpose. For more insights on applying Stoic principles to modern life, contact us at stephen@navigatethecurve.com.