Weekly Stoic Lessons

WEEK 7: INNER VALUE
“Look within. Within is the fountain of good, and it will ever bubble up, if thou wilt ever dig.” (Marcus Aurelius) The Essence True happiness and inner peace do not come from external goods (money, status), but from character and virtue (wisdom, justice, courage). This source is always within. Your value is based on your character, which is inviolable as long as you work on it (“dig”). TAKEAWAY Stop looking for happiness outside yourself. True, inviolable values arise only from within—through the constant cultivation of character and virtue. Application in... Read more...
Week 6: THE JUDGMENT
External things have no inherent meaning; they are neutral. They simply are. They only acquire meaning through your judgment. Judgment is subjective. What is good for one person may be bad for another. What is bad for you today may be good for you tomorrow. Read more...
Week 5: The Two Types of Fear
Anger is a self-chosen reaction that we can actively avoid by pausing. Read more...
Week 4: The Wealth of Frugality
Controlling your wants creates true freedom and independence. Read more...
Week 3: The Trap of Expectation
Do not make today to a period of waiting for tomorrow.  Read more...
Week 2: Self-Determination and Action
You are the architect of your own character. Read more...
Week 1: Kindness as Strength
To be kind is a decision and a proactive virtue that you can control, regardless of external circumstances. Read more...