These 6 Stoic Quotes Changed My Life
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Think stoicism is about being silent and boring? Think again — stoic wisdom may just change your life forever.
As the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic reached the United States, my wife and I had just moved from Kansas City, MO, to Indianapolis, IN, to take a new job.
With no friends, a small apartment, and our second tiny baby on the way, I was quickly feeling the pressures of self-isolation and social distancing.
The year before, I had stumbled onto Marcus Aurelius’ Meditations and found great comfort and guidance in his stoic philosophy.
So, when things started to unravel around me, I turned back to Stoicism for strength and comfort.
It wasn’t long before I found myself diving deep into the Stoic writings of Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius. I was surprised how much their 2,000-year-old words resonated with me and provided clarity during such a chaotic time.
The world of 2022 is no less uncertain than it was in 2020.
But, these six Stoic quotes have changed my life and continue to provide guidance during difficult times. Let these words from the Stoics be your light in the darkness.
“You have power over your mind — not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.” — Marcus Aurelius
When things are tough, it’s easy to give in to feelings of powerlessness. It can feel like the whole world is against you and that there’s nothing you can do.
However, Marcus Aurelius reminds us that we always have power over our own minds. No matter what happens, we can control how we react and what we think.
This quote is a great reminder that we are never powerless. We always have the ability to control our thoughts and reactions, no matter what life throws at us.
“The happy life is one inspired by love and guided by knowledge.” — Seneca
Have you ever felt like you’re just going through the motions, existing but not really living?
Seneca reminds us that a happy life is one inspired by love and guided by knowledge. In…
