12 (Stoic) Rules For Life

Summary

In this video, the speaker shares 12 Stoic rules for life that offer practical wisdom for daily living. The rules emphasize the importance of self-discipline, being present, and focusing on what’s within our control. Key principles include owning the morning, making beautiful choices, cultivating wisdom daily, and turning obstacles into opportunities. The Stoics stress the need for simplicity, kindness, and perseverance, advocating for constant self-improvement while embracing life's challenges. By following these principles, one can lead a purposeful, resilient, and virtuous life.

Takeaways

• 😀 Win the morning: Start your day with intention by getting up early and focusing on what matters most. This sets a productive tone for the rest of the day.
• 😀 Focus on what’s in your control: Don't waste energy on things beyond your control. Focus on your actions, emotions, and responses to the present moment.
• 😀 Be present: Stop worrying about the future or dwelling on the past. Deal with what's in front of you and embrace the moment.
• 😀 Learn something new every day: Stoicism is a daily practice of growth. Commit to acquiring new knowledge or insights that strengthen your mindset and resilience.
• 😀 Do one good thing every day: Make it a habit to perform a small act of kindness or integrity each day. It strengthens your character and contributes positively to the world.
• 😀 Eliminate the inessential: Simplify your life by asking yourself, 'Is this essential?' Cut out distractions to focus on what truly matters.
• 😀 Converse with the dead: Read the works of great thinkers from the past. Engage with their wisdom as if you're having a conversation, learning from their experiences.
• 😀 Be tough on yourself, tolerant of others: Hold yourself to high standards while being compassionate and understanding toward others' flaws and mistakes.
• 😀 Make beautiful choices: Choose the right path even when it’s difficult. Stoics believe in making choices that reflect virtue, which leads to a life of integrity.
• 😀 Turn obstacles into opportunities: Every challenge is an opportunity for growth. Use obstacles as fuel to practice resilience, adaptability, and virtue.
• 😀 Remember memento mori: Life is short. Live each day as if it's your last, making every moment count with purpose and intention.

Q & A

What is the main idea behind the Stoic practice of 'owning the morning'?

The practice of 'owning the morning' involves rising early, being intentional with your time, and engaging in activities that set a positive tone for the day. By focusing on what’s important—like journaling, exercising, or deep work—Stoics aim to start the day with purpose and control, avoiding distractions like phones.

How does Stoicism teach us to handle things beyond our control?

Stoicism emphasizes focusing only on what we can control, such as our emotions, actions, and opinions. It teaches us to let go of worries about things beyond our control, like others' actions or future events, to avoid wasting energy on things that cannot be changed.

What is the significance of 'memento mori' in Stoic philosophy?

'Memento mori' is the practice of remembering our mortality. Stoics believe that recognizing life’s impermanence helps us to live each moment intentionally, avoid procrastination, and focus on what truly matters. It encourages us to treat every day as a gift and live with purpose.

Why is it important to be present and avoid suffering from imagined troubles, according to Stoicism?

Stoicism teaches that most of our suffering arises from imagining future troubles or regretting past events, which are often beyond our control. By staying present and focusing on the current moment, we can avoid unnecessary anxiety and respond to challenges with clarity and calm.

What does the Stoic rule 'do one thing every day' mean?

This rule encourages daily personal growth by learning something new or gaining a new insight each day. It’s not about achieving grand breakthroughs, but about making consistent, small improvements—whether through reading, reflection, or action.

How does the Stoic practice of 'doing one good deed every day' relate to virtue?

Stoicism emphasizes virtue, particularly justice and kindness. By performing one good deed each day—whether big or small—Stoics aim to strengthen their character and practice moral excellence, which aligns with their philosophical commitment to doing what is right.

What is the importance of asking 'is this essential?' in Stoic philosophy?

The question 'Is this essential?' helps Stoics simplify their lives by focusing on what truly matters. It encourages them to eliminate distractions, avoid unnecessary actions, and make decisions based on what contributes to their goals and values.

How does reading contribute to the Stoic practice of 'speaking with the dead'?

The concept of 'speaking with the dead' refers to engaging with the works of past philosophers and thinkers. By reading their writings, Stoics believe they can converse with the wisdom of those who came before them, gaining insights that help them navigate life more wisely.

What does it mean to be tough on yourself but tolerant of others in Stoic practice?

Stoics hold themselves to high standards, practicing self-discipline and personal accountability. However, they are tolerant of others, understanding that everyone has their own struggles, limitations, and circumstances. This balance promotes empathy, while still maintaining personal integrity.

How do Stoics make 'beautiful choices' in their daily lives?

Stoics strive to make choices that align with virtue, even when these choices are difficult. This involves choosing the right thing over the easy thing, such as practicing kindness, self-discipline, and perseverance, which ultimately leads to personal pride and growth.

What does the Stoic rule 'turn every obstacle into an opportunity' teach us?

This rule encourages Stoics to view challenges not as setbacks but as opportunities to practice virtue, such as resilience, patience, and perseverance. By adapting to obstacles, Stoics use them to become stronger and more virtuous individuals.