These 5 Powerful Mindset Shifts Will Change Your Life
Ignite Change Today
In 2013, I was completely lost.
In the throes of PTSD, each day was a struggle for survival, navigating a world that seemed devoid of meaning.
I spent most of my days in fear. Unable to make sense of the world or my place in it.
Lost and desperate for change, a realization struck on New Year’s Day, 2014:
No one was coming to save me; change had to come from within.
It was during this pivotal time that I stumbled upon a book that introduced me to Stoicism, a philosophy that not only became a guiding light during my darkest days but also laid the foundation for how I approach life today — “The Obstacle is the Way” by Ryan Holiday.
Through this traumatic period, Stoicism taught me five major mindset shifts that you can apply to your life.
#1. Dichotomy of Control
“The chief task in life is simply this: to identify and separate matters so that I can say clearly to myself which are externals not under my control, and which have to do with the choices I actually control” — Epictetus
Amidst the challenges of PTSD, understanding what was within my control and what wasn’t became a source of comfort. It empowered me to direct my focus and energy towards the aspects of life where I could make a difference.
I started by listing things I could control — my reactions, habits, and perspectives. This simple act became a source of strength amidst chaos.
Do you spend your time worrying about things that could go wrong? About how things haven’t gone the way you’ve planned?
Meditating on this quote daily will help free your mind.
#2. You Have Power Over Your Mind.
“You have power over your mind — not outside events. Realize this and you will find strength.” — Marcus Aurelius
I was plagued by my thoughts during this period. Sitting and cowering in fear on a daily basis.
But slowly, I began to realize that I was not a slave to my thoughts.
That by altering my thoughts, I could alter the trajectory of my life.
Most of us have this habit of believing every thought that comes into our mind. We believe that we have no control over them.
Take back that control. Accept thoughts as they come and don’t allow them to dictate your life.
#3. Memento Mori
“You could leave life right now. Let that determine what you do and say and think.” — Marcus Aurelius
After the death of my closest friend, the fragility of life became unavoidable. It was the first time I had ever really thought about death.
Reflecting on the fragility of life became a daily practice. Of embracing each moment, recognizing the preciousness of time.
Where are you wasting your time in life right now?
What could you be achieving if you really thought about where you were directing your attention?
#4. Know Your Path
“If a man knows not which port he sails, no wind is favourable.” — Seneca
As a young man in my 20s, I had given little thought to the plans for my life.
As I delved further into the world of stoicism and mindset training, I began to understand the importance of knowing your path in life.
Charting my goals and aspirations became a therapeutic exercise. It not only provided direction but also served as a source of motivation during challenging times.
Do you have a clear plan for your life? Do you wake up each morning knowing what you need to do?
#5. Focus On You
“It never ceases to amaze me: we all love ourselves more than other people, but care more about their opinion than our own.” — Marcus Aurelius
I had always been plagued by the opinions of others, with every decision tainted by external thoughts.
Gradually, I shifted my mindset.
Instead of seeking validation externally, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery and self-compassion.
Are the opinions of others preventing you from progressing?
Embracing these 5 mindset shifts helped guide me through a traumatic period in my life.
But 10 years later, they continue to shape the trajectory of my life.
As you embark on your own journey of self-discovery, consider adopting these Stoic principles.
In these shifts, you may find the key to unlocking a transformative and fulfilling life.
Which Stoic mindset resonates with you the most? How do you integrate it into your life? I’d love it if you could let me know in the comments.
About the Author
My name is Dave 👋
I’m always on the hunt for strategies to unlock high performance and dedicated to assisting others in their journey towards self-improvement.
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