CAN STOICISM HELP US LIVE A BETTER LIFE?
I was asked some months ago whether I include the subject of Stoicism, and hence the importance of its teachings, in “The Centre Within” workshop.
We’re not talking about a “toughen up, sunshine” attitude or the proverbial British ‘stiff upper lip’, meaning keeping your composure and not showing emotion in the face of adversity.
The philosophy of Stoicism goes back to ancient Greece and to ancient Rome, and is credited as being the forerunner to today’s CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy).
You would note that I often include quotes from Greek philosophers in my newsletters. I’ve long thought the ancient Greek philosophers seem to have a clear handle on life.
The School of Stoic Philosophy began in the 300s BCE with Greek philosopher Zeno and continued through to the Roman Empire into the second century CE. I am currently reading some of the works of Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius. Interestingly, the principles are very similar to those that “The Centre Within” teaches.
There was a great resurgence of Stoicism in the 1950s led by American psychologist and psychotherapist Albert Ellis who wrote many books on the subject.
If you have done workshops with me you may remember my speaking of Albert Ellis. He says we human beings tragedise things, so when something happens we turn it into a tragedy; and we ‘awfulise’ those things that haven’t happened but just might, as in “Wouldn’t it be awful if this happened….!”
Over the past few years, there has been renewed interest in the Stoic Philosophy and how its principles can be helpful in our living a happier life in modern times. And there are many contemporary books about the ancient Philosophy of Stoicism.
The Stoic Philosophy focuses on living a life of integrity and purpose. At its core are four virtues: Courage, Temperance, Justice and Wisdom.
Courage: Marcus Aurelius says courage is a fundamental quality whatever we are facing in life, ensuring that we have the moral and emotional fortitude to handle life’s challenges.
Temperance: This is the importance of moderation. Courage alone is not enough but finding the balance between lack and excess, in all things.
Justice: Courage and temperance are vital, but the Stoics held justice in the highest regard. Marcus Aurelius saw justice as “the source of all the other virtues”, influencing our actions, decisions and interaction with others.
Wisdom: This is the learning in life, the knowing that we gain from experience. The Stoics emphasised the importance of listening and observing, rather than speaking. (The two ears, one mouth metaphor comes to mind.)
While the Stoics considered these four core principles as a roadmap for living a purposeful life, there are other principles:
- Live in accordance with Nature
- Focus on what we can control
- Embrace the present moment
- Practise Gratitude
- Strive to maintain a calm and balanced mind
- Believe in a unified self, don’t blame others
- Strive for the common good with cooperation and harmony
- Live life as a flow of progression, not perfection
- Find Happiness in the virtues we value
Sounds like a great plan for life.
Happy month. Love and Laughter,
