How Stoicism Can Help You Not Care What Narcissists & Flying Monkeys Say About You
We Have To Understand The Power Of Indifference
We’ve all encountered them at some point — the narcissists and their enablers, the flying monkeys, who seem to derive immense pleasure from tearing others down.
Their words can sting, their actions can be hurtful, and their influence can be toxic. It’s easy to get caught up in their web of manipulation, self-doubt, and negativity.
But what if there was a way to rise above their antics and not care about what they say or do? Stoicism, the ancient philosophy practiced by some of history’s greatest minds, can offer us a powerful tool: the art of indifference.
Understanding The Power of Indifference
Stoicism, which originated in ancient Greece and was later refined by Roman philosophers, has stood the test of time as a practical guide to leading a virtuous and content life.
At its core, Stoicism teaches us that while we may not have control over external events, we do have control over our reactions to them. This fundamental concept sets the stage for understanding the power of indifference.
Marcus Aurelius, one of the most famous Stoic philosophers, highlights this power when he wrote, “If you are pained by any external thing, it is not this thing that disturbs you, but your own judgment about it. And it is in your power to wipe out that judgment now.”
In essence, Stoicism teaches us to focus on what we can control — our thoughts and reactions — and to remain indifferent to the external forces that seek to disturb our peace.
To truly grasp how Stoicism can help us not care about what narcissists and flying monkeys say, we need to delve into three key Stoic books: “Meditations” by Marcus Aurelius, “The Enchiridion” by Epictetus, and “Letters from a Stoic” by Seneca.
1. “Meditations” by Marcus Aurelius
Marcus Aurelius, a Roman Emperor and a devout Stoic, provides invaluable insights in his book “Meditations.”
In one of his meditations, he advises us, “Begin each day by telling yourself: Today I shall be meeting with interference, ingratitude, insolence, disloyalty, ill-will, and selfishness — all of them due to the offenders’ ignorance of what is good or evil.”
Aurelius reminds us that encountering difficult people is a given in life. We cannot change their nature, but we can change our response.
When confronted with the hurtful words or actions of narcissists and flying monkeys, a Stoic would remind themselves that these individuals are acting from ignorance or their own insecurities.
Their judgments should not disturb our inner tranquility. We can choose to be indifferent to their negativity and instead focus on our own virtue and wisdom.
2. “The Enchiridion” by Epictetus
Epictetus, another influential Stoic philosopher, provides practical advice in “The Enchiridion.”
He writes, “Men are disturbed not by things, but by the view which they take of them.”
Epictetus emphasizes that it’s not the actions of others but our own interpretations that cause emotional turmoil. To remain undisturbed by what narcissists and flying monkeys say, we must change our perspective.
When these individuals attempt to belittle or undermine us, we can remind ourselves that their words reflect their insecurities and negative outlook.
By practicing indifference, we shift our view of their actions, recognizing them for what they truly are — futile attempts to drag us down.
As Epictetus suggests, we can choose to interpret their actions differently and, in doing so, protect our peace of mind.
3. “Letters from a Stoic” by Seneca
Seneca, a prominent Stoic philosopher and statesman, offers profound wisdom in his “Letters from a Stoic.”
In one of his letters, he writes, “He is a wise man who does not grieve for the things which he has not, but rejoices for those which he has.”
Seneca’s teachings emphasize the importance of focusing on what we have, rather than what we lack.
When dealing with narcissists and flying monkeys, it’s easy to become preoccupied with their negative opinions and actions.
Stoicism teaches us to shift our attention to the things that truly matter, such as our values, character, and the support of loved ones who genuinely care for us.
By rejoicing in what we have, we can easily detach from the criticism and indifference of those who seek to harm us.
In conclusion, Stoicism offers us a powerful toolkit for dealing with narcissists and their flying monkeys.
The philosophy teaches us to embrace the art of indifference by focusing on what we can control — our thoughts and reactions — and by disregarding the negativity and judgments of others.
As Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, and Seneca suggest in their timeless works, the power of indifference is not about suppressing our emotions but about wisely choosing how to respond to the world around us.
The next time a narcissist or a flying monkey attempts to undermine you, remember the wisdom of the Stoics.
Take a deep breath, remind yourself that their words reflect their own insecurities, and focus on what truly matters in your life.
By mastering the art of indifference, you can rise above the negativity and lead a life that is truly virtuous and content, regardless of what others say about you.
Stoicism, with its timeless teachings, becomes a steadfast guide for navigating the complex web of human interactions and emerging unscathed from their influence.
