Summary

The article outlines four Stoic habits that can lead to personal growth and excellence: finding an anchor, self-education, the golden rule of treating others as one would like to be treated, and being patient yet productive with time.

Abstract

The text discusses the profound impact of Stoic philosophy on personal development, emphasizing the importance of adopting specific Stoic habits to rise above mediocrity. It draws inspiration from notable Stoics like Seneca, Cleanthes, Zeno of Citium, and Marcus Aurelius, illustrating how their teachings on mental stability, continuous learning, ethical behavior, and efficient time management can guide individuals toward a more fulfilling and virtuous life. The article encourages readers to seek out personal anchors for stability, to be self-reliant in their pursuit of knowledge, to practice empathy and kindness, and to value time as a non-renewable resource, thereby fostering a growth mindset and a life of purpose and happiness.

Opinions

The author suggests that having a mental anchor, such as a role model or a calming activity, is crucial for maintaining stability and peace in the face of life's turbulence.
Self-education is portrayed as essential for personal success, with the idea that while mentors can provide a foundation, individuals must take charge of their own learning and development.
The Stoic golden rule, as articulated by Zeno of Citium, is highlighted as a key principle for living a happy life, advocating for kindness, empathy, and respect towards others.
Marcus Aurelius' approach to life is presented as an example of patience paired with productivity, emphasizing the importance of using time wisely and not succumbing to inaction or procrastination.
The article conveys that embracing Stoic values can lead to a transformation in one's life, encouraging a mindset shift from fixed to growth-oriented.
The text concludes with a call to action, inviting readers to engage with the content and join a community of learners and writers for further inspiration and personal development.

If You Want To Be More Than Average, Build These 4 Stoic Habits

Remember: a person with a fixed mindset often remains unaware of his own lackings.

Stoics weren’t ordinary people:

Marcus Aurelius ruled over the largest empire on earth
Epictetus endured and triumphed over slavery
Seneca became the greatest writer of his era
Cleanthes was a boxer turned philosopher

Stoics were not ordinary individuals — their legacy speaks volumes. The Stoics were followers and proponents of Stoicism, an ancient philosophical school founded in Athens, Greece, in the 3rd century BC. Throughout the 2400 years, Stoic values and habits have inspired and motivated millions of people.

If you aspire to be more than average, embracing these four Stoic habits can guide you down that path:

1. Find an anchor

Inspiration: Seneca

Ryan Holiday, a renowned author, often draws inspiration from the teachings of the ancient Stoic philosopher Seneca. One concept that Holiday frequently references is the concept of the “anchor” or “anchoring.”

Seneca advises us to use a mental anchor to find stability and peace, no matter what’s happening around us.

Imagine being on a boat in a stormy sea. The waves are crashing, and it’s chaotic all around. But if the ship has a strong anchor, it remains steady and doesn’t get carried away by the waves.

Similarly, in our lives, there are times when things can feel overwhelming and turbulent. During that moment, an anchor can keep us safe and undisturbed.

For example, some anchors can include:

A person, guardian, or a role model
Meditation
Journaling
Or engaging in a calming activity [insert]

Anchor is like a reference point to remind us of our values, struggles, and virtues.

Find your guiding anchor and use it to stay resilient and focused amongst the distractions of daily life.

2. Teach yourself

Inspiration: Cleanthes

Under Zeno’s guidance, Cleanthes learned a lot. He developed a strong foundation in philosophy and critical thinking. Ultimately, Cleanthes’s thirst for knowledge went beyond the classroom.

Cleanthes was always curious to learn more and understand the world around him. Cleanthes never stopped learning. He played a crucial role in further developing Stoic philosophy, particularly in areas such as ethics and theology.

Our mentors help us climb our first steps, but ultimately, our knowledge makes us successful in life. In other words, teaching from mentors, parents, and guides helps us get a headstart. The rest needs to be done alone.

For that, teach yourself. Stay calm if something goes wrong. Take some time and get back up if needed.

Learn and teach yourself along the way. Adapt.

3. If you wouldn’t like it done to you, don’t do it to others

Inspiration: Zeno of Citium

Zeno of Citium, the founder of Stoicism, led a simple life.

He spent his life by the Stoic golden rule: aligning our actions and behaviors with the principles of virtue. Zeno believed our true happiness resides in living a happy life.

To live a happy life, treat others with kindness, empathy, and respect, just as we would desire for ourselves. Being empty and having good ethical conduct can make this world better. Zeno of Citium developed a sense of philosophical knowledge at a young age and circled his life around moral values and virtues.

Hatred and jealousy offer you nothing. But being good and kind ensures you have a positive and helping mind. Positivity attracts positivity and can help you make the most out of your life happily.

Doing good also indirectly benefits the people around you to learn from you and strive for better.

4. Be patient but don’t waste your time

Inspiration: Marcus Aurelius

Aurelius’s life was filled with significant events ranging from accession to the Roman Empire, governance, and natural disasters.

Marcus Aurelius carried the wisdom gained from his experiences and used them as building blocks for his life. He wrote his journey and principles in his 208-page journal titled “Meditations,” all while managing the affairs of the Roman Empire. His writings reflect his commitment to discipline and personal growth.

It’s okay to wait for the air to settle down, but never give up.

Quickly adapting to time rather than wasting it. Use time wisely and purposefully. Understand the value of self-discipline, mindful action, and the pursuit of virtue.

Marcus Aurelius’ approach to time management and his emphasis on not wasting time were rooted in his Stoic beliefs. Recognize the value of each moment and the importance of using time wisely because time moves very, very fast.

Final thoughts:

Remember, a person with a fixed mindset often remains unaware of his own lackings.

So if you’re here reading this, you know there is more to learn. These lessons serve as a reminder to grow and never give up because your best version is sitting behind the closed door of uncertainties.

Stoicism has been transforming lives since the 3rd Century BC and beyond; now it’s your turn.

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