In this article we will consider several inspiring quotes from Stoic philosophers. They are all very insightful and may help you rethink how you view the world and live your life.
Stoic philosophy can teach us many things, including self-control. In their view, the only way to reach true happiness is to pay more attention to our minds. A well-conducted mind is very important for our wellbeing because it represents the core of our worldview.
Without further ado, let’s jump into the pool of knowledge and consider some of the most ingenious Stoic thoughts ever recorded.
1. “The things you think about determine the quality of your mind.”
Marcus Aurelius, Meditations
Let’s start with the basics. The quality of our life depends on the quality of our thoughts. The fact is, our minds are often full of trivial and unimportant things. The Stoics would encourage you to think big instead; focus on things that can make your mind stronger. Think about big questions and share your ideas with others.
2. “It is not the man who has too little that is poor, but the one who hankers after more.”
Lucius Annaeus Seneca, Letters from a Stoic
Our impression of wealth can be misleading. It all starts with a simple desire, but if you constantly crave more, then no number of possessions will satisfy you. It is often the case that we forsake what we already have, and we choose to chase what we don’t yet have. In the long run, this mindset makes us miserable and poor. Perhaps not poor in money or possessions, but poor in mind and soul. Reflect on your belongings and learn to value what you already have.
3. We should always be asking ourselves: “Is this something that is, or is not, in my control?”
Epictetus, the Enchiridion
This quote represents the key principle of Stoicism. You should always have in mind that there are things you can’t control and those you can. All that is in your power are your thoughts, will and actions. There’s no point stressing about what is out of your control in the form of external objects and events. What is important is understanding the distinction between these two options.
4. “Define for me now what the ‘indifferents’ are. Whatever things we cannot control. Tell me the upshot. They are nothing to me.”
Epictetus, the Enchiridion
This expands upon the idea in the previous quote. The things we can’t control should not be considered good or bad; they are best considered as indifferent. We should not give them too much attention because they can’t make our lives better. If trained, it is our thoughts that are the only road to happiness. Instead of focusing on external things around you, learn to treat yourself with more attention.
5. “Fate leads the willing, and drags along the reluctant.”
Seneca, Letters from a Stoic
If something bad happens to you, don’t try to deny it or spend much time lamenting in grief. Perceive it as an event that was destined to happen. Learn from it; fortify yourself with the experience and knowledge that you gained from the event. If you are unwilling to accept this mindset, then fate will drag you through life. Instead, we should smile back at fate and continue bravely on our road of life.
6. “Today I escaped from anxiety. Or no, I discarded it, because it was within me, in my own perceptions — not outside.”
Marcus Aurelius, Meditations
Anxiety is becoming an increasingly apparent pandemic in our world. Most of us will feel a form of anxiety in response to different situations or objects, although some of us experience this more considerably. For example, I used to have anxiety attacks when I had to travel somewhere, but I have realized it is not the act of traveling that made me anxious, but my perception of traveling.
The only way to liberate ourselves from anxiety is by thinking about our perception of it. It is not something outside of ourselves that must be avoided; it is something inside of ourselves that must be confronted and overcome. Meditate longer and more often, and you will feel the relief of that burden dropping from your chest.
7. “Never let the future disturb you. You will meet it, if you have to, with the same weapons of reason which today arm you against the present.”
Marcus Aurelius, Meditations
We are captives of the present at any given moment, yet it is the future that dwells in our minds. It is the frozen picture we choose to keep, whether painful or cheerful. But the future doesn’t truly exist and we shouldn’t spend too much time contemplating it.
The only real time for action is now. What you do now will determine what you become later. Therefore, cherish every moment that is given to you. The present is precious, because you can use it in so many different ways. Consider the popular Latin phrase “carpe diem” and remember to seize your present day.
8. “For I am not everlasting, but a human being, a part of the whole as an hour is a part of the day. Like an hour I must come, and like an hour pass away.”
Epictetus, Discourses
We are all a part of something greater than us, yet we can sometimes behave as if everything revolves around us. However, this way of thinking is highly misguided. Our time is limited and the best way to spend it is participating in the larger world around us. There is no benefit to being burdened with ideas of grandeur and immortality, as this is false and out of our control. So, we should all aim to accomplish something great before our hour is up.
9. “As long as you live, keep learning how to live.”
Seneca, Letters from a Stoic
As you pass through life you will surely encounter difficulties and go through hardships, which makes it easy to fall into states of misery. However, we must remember that living is learning. Life is a lengthy book and you are the author of it. Learn from your mistakes and realize that obstacles are not failures; they are lessons. Every setback is a chance for you to grow.
10. “It never ceases to amaze me: we all love ourselves more than other people, but care more about their opinions than our own.”
Marcus Aurelius, Meditations
If you really love yourself, you should learn to appreciate yourself more. Realize how many times you stood up after you fell down. Nobody can know you as much as you can know yourself. Other people can be great, but you should remember there are no others if “you” aren’t present.
Conclusion
Those are the ten best Stoic quotes, in our humble opinion. Of course, there are countless other quotes on Stoicism that may suit you better,and we encourage you to delve deeper into Stoic philosophy. Improving your mindset is a very valuable gift you can give to yourself.
Treat yourself with respect, dignity and love. Dive into your thoughts and examine your worldview through meditation and philosophical contemplation. You will not only learn something valuable, but you will also grow as a person and become the best version of yourself.
