Stoicism: Be Free Of All The External Factors
Achieve Happiness by Letting Go of What’s Not in Your Hands
In this modern age of development and technology, many people struggle to find happiness. Today, we are more connected to one another than ever before. However, why do we remain anxious and troubled? The answer lies in the fact that we all chase things that are beyond our control. As if swimming against the flow of a river. You may reach the end, but you will be exhausted. Or you can just let go and let the events unfold naturally. Stoicism believes in remaining calm regardless of external factors.
Practicing Stoic practices allows us to be happy and experience the world in its fullest colors.
What Is Stoicism?
The Greek philosopher, Zeno, found Stoicism in the 3rd century. Stoicism was originally associated with pursuing happiness through virtue. Over the years, a wide range of philosophers contributed to this school of thought. Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, and Seneca are among the philosophers who played a part in modernizing Stoicism.
“A Stoic is someone who transforms fear into prudence, pain into transformation, mistakes into initiation, and desire into undertaking.” ~ Taleb Nassim Nicholas.
According to modern Stoic belief, humans are affected by two forces; external and internal. According to Stoicism, we cannot control external forces, but we can control our internal factors. It is, therefore, best to let go of those forces that we cannot control.
What Are the External and Internal Forces?
External forces are beyond our control. Examples include the economy of our country, the weather today, and, to some degree, our relationships and jobs. As a common person, you cannot influence the economy or inflation no matter how hard you try. The same goes for our relations. Sure, everyone around us will remain kind to us if we treat them nicely, but is that a guarantee? People might suddenly change their attitude. What can you do then?
We can, however, control our internal forces. They include our emotions, thoughts, and responses to our surroundings. Our minds are within our control, and once we learn how to react appropriately, we can reach happiness and peace.
Modern Stoicism teaches us to control our minds and how we react to our surroundings. It teaches us to remain calm even when things outside do not go as planned.
How Can Stoicism Help You?
Follow these steps to improve your happiness by practicing Stoicism:
Do Not Stress About External Forces:
As I explained earlier, we cannot control what happens outside our control. I have gained a new perspective since I learned about this philosophy. Now, I don’t stress about things I can’t control. Instead, I just let things happen naturally.
Take Control of Your Mind:
You can accomplish anything when you can control your mind. It is important to believe that you are in control of your thoughts and reactions.
Maintaining a journal is the most effective way. It allows the mind to think clearly and act accordingly rather than stressing over it. Embrace this practice and reap its benefits.
Let the Nature Do Its Wonders:
Obviously, we cannot control everything. Sometimes we must let events unfold naturally. Since I realized this phenomenon, I now don’t fight it anymore. While we should strive to improve our lives, if things are beyond our control, we should step back and let them be.
The more you try to control something, the more it controls you. Free yourself and let things take their own natural course.
Summary:
Stoicism reduces stress, anxiety, helps with judgemental and impulsive behavior, and makes you feel empowered and self-aware.
- Let go of things you have no control over.
- Be mindful of your reactions.
- Keep your cool in tough situations.
- Be realistic about your expectations. Embrace challenges.
- Don’t let your worries clutter up your mind. Practice journaling.
- Don’t let negativity drive you and be self-controlled.
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