Daily Stoic: Why Ancient Philosophy Is Essential for Modern Life

Daily Stoic: Why Ancient Philosophy Is Essential for Modern Life

Philosophy is often dismissed as abstract or irrelevant, something that has little to do with the practical realities of modern life. However, this view overlooks the enduring value of philosophy, especially when it is applied to solve real-world problems and achieve personal and professional success. Philosophy has historically been used not just by scholars, but by men and women of action—soldiers, leaders, and everyday people—seeking wisdom to navigate life’s challenges. One of the most practical schools of ancient philosophy, Stoicism, has proven especially relevant throughout the ages.

Stoicism, founded by Zeno of Citium in the 3rd century BC, was famously practiced by figures like Epictetus, Cato, Seneca, and the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius. The core of Stoic philosophy emphasizes virtue as the path to happiness, defining virtue through qualities such as courage, temperance, justice, and wisdom. Stoicism teaches that we cannot control external events, but we can control how we respond to them. This focus on personal responsibility and inner peace is encapsulated in Epictetus’ central idea: “In life, our first job is to divide things into two categories—externals we cannot control, and our choices regarding them, which we do control.”

This is also reflected in the words of Marcus Aurelius, who wrote, “You have power over your mind, not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.” The Stoics taught that by focusing on our own thoughts and actions, we can maintain peace and resilience regardless of external circumstances.

Stoicism in Practice: Turning Life’s Challenges into Opportunities

What sets Stoicism apart from other philosophies is its simplicity and practicality. The Stoics believe that life’s obstacles are not to be avoided, but rather embraced as opportunities for growth. They argue that by controlling what is within our power and accepting what is not, we can find tranquility and purpose. Seneca, in his letters, famously said, “We suffer more often in imagination than in reality,” reminding us that our fears and anxieties often arise from our own perceptions, not the reality of the situation. This practical approach has been exemplified by those who lived and embodied Stoic principles, rather than merely studying them.

Many of the greatest Stoics did not intend to write philosophical treatises. Marcus Aurelius’ Meditations was a private journal, Seneca’s letters were personal correspondences, and Epictetus’ teachings were recorded by his student. These works, along with the Stoic example of action over theory, show that philosophy can be a powerful tool in the hands of those who live by it.

Throughout history, the influence of Stoicism has been far-reaching. Figures like Frederick the Great, who carried Stoic works in his saddlebags, and George Washington, who used Stoic principles to inspire his soldiers during the harsh winter at Valley Forge, turned to Stoicism to help them lead effectively in times of crisis. Similarly, thinkers such as Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and even the Haitian revolutionary Toussaint Louverture, all found wisdom and strength in Stoic philosophy.

Stoicism Today: A Timeless Guide for Leaders and Thinkers

In modern times, Stoicism continues to guide leaders and thinkers. Former Secretary of Defense James Mattis carried Marcus Aurelius’ Meditations with him during his deployments, while Chinese Prime Minister Wen Jiabao read the work over 100 times. Bestselling author Tim Ferriss, a vocal proponent of Stoicism, has written and spoken extensively on its relevance today. These modern-day leaders and thinkers are proof that Stoicism is not merely an ancient philosophy, but a timeless framework for action and resilience.

Stoicism shows that philosophy is not the domain of idle professors, but of men and women who strive to overcome adversity, make better decisions, and lead lives of purpose. As Zeno of Citium, the founder of Stoicism, once said, “Man is not worried by real problems so much as by his imagined anxieties about real problems.” By transforming challenges into opportunities for growth, Stoicism offers timeless wisdom for navigating both personal and professional life in the modern world.