Exploring Stoic Discipline to Maintain Serenity Amidst Contemporary World Turmoil
In a tumultuous world, the wisdom of the ancient Stoics emerges as a beacon of clarity. This ancient philosophical school, born in Greece and Rome over two thousand years ago, provides valuable tools to face the challenges of the modern era. At the core of its teachings lies the principle of self-control: mastering emotions through reason.
This article will reveal how Stoic self-control can help us navigate the uncertainties of our time and how to apply it in our daily lives.
Self-Control in Stoicism
The Stoics believed that emotions are often irrational responses to our perceptions of the world. We allow ourselves to be disturbed by things beyond our control, leading to anxiety, fear, anger, and sadness. The Stoics, however, aimed for a state of apatheia, or emotional peace, achieved by accepting things as they are, rather than how we wish them to be.
Self-control, then, is the ability to observe our emotions, understand their origin, and then decide whether to act on them or not. It’s not a denial of emotions, but a process of discernment that allows us to respond to them more consciously.
The Relevance of Self-Control in the Modern Era
Our era is defined by its speed and uncertainty. Technological, political, and social changes occur at a dizzying pace, and information overload can be overwhelming. In this context, self-control becomes an essential skill. It allows us to maintain calm and mental clarity amid chaos and make informed decisions rather than impulsive reactions.
Moreover, our era is riddled with distractions. Social media, digital entertainment, constant advertising… all these draw us away from our true goals and values. Stoic self-control helps us stay focused and resist fleeting temptations in favor of what truly matters.
Practicing Self-Control in Everyday Life
So, how can we cultivate this Stoic skill in our daily lives? Here are some practical suggestions.
1. Practice of Mindfulness
Mindfulness involves being fully present in the here and now, aware of our thoughts, feelings, and actions. This practice allows us to observe our emotions without judging or being swept away by them. When we feel an intense emotion arising, we can take a moment to breathe, observe it, understand it, and then decide how we want to respond.
2. Distinguishing Between What We Can Control and What We Can’t
This is essential in Stoic philosophy. We must remember that we can’t control external events, only our reaction to them. When faced with a frustrating situation, instead of succumbing to anger, we can remember that our mental peace depends on how we choose to react.
3. Reflection and Self-Examination
The Stoics were strong advocates of reflection and self-examination. At the end of each day, we can take a moment to reflect on our thoughts, emotions, and actions. Have we responded with serenity and reason, or have we been carried away by intense emotions? This practice helps us better understand our reactions and cultivate self-control.
