7 Stoic Pillars: Shielding Yourself from Life's Impact, Epictetus Style
Hello everyone and welcome back to our journey of wisdom. Today we delve into the profound teachings of the Stoic philosopher Epictetus, focusing on seven principles that can empower you to cultivate unyielding inner peace. If you're new here, don't forget to subscribe to Stoicism Insights so you can embark on this enlightening path with us.
Now let's dive into the timeless wisdom of Epictetus and discover how these principles can shield you from the impact of external judgments.
Number one: Understanding Control. To begin, Epictetus teaches us that there are aspects of life within our control and others beyond it. Our actions, opinions, preferences, and desires—these are under our command. However, the body, wealth, reputation, and external opinions lie beyond our control. It's crucial to recognize this dichotomy to live a fulfilling life free from unnecessary afflictions.
Number two: Insults and Offenses. The second Stoic principle centers around insults and offenses. Epictetus wisely reminds us that when someone insults or strikes us, it's not the action itself that harms us, but our own judgment of it. By understanding that emotional discomfort arises from how we process insults, we gain the power to choose our response. The key is not to be swayed by appearances and to control ourselves with patience and resilience.
Number three: Maintain Firm Purposes. The third principle encourages us to maintain firm purposes in the face of external opinions. Whether pursuing philosophy or any other life endeavor, Epictetus advises us to expect ridicule and mockery. Staying steadfast in our principles, regardless of external judgments, leads to admiration from those who once ridiculed us. It's a reminder to prioritize our well-being over the fleeting opinions of others.
Number four: Living Without Dishonor. Epictetus's fourth principle urges us not to worry about what others think or speak about us. Living without dishonor requires recognizing that our true worth is derived from things under our control. In a world where social validation can be like poison, this principle challenges us to question the worth of changing who we are for the sake of others' opinions.
Number five: Exercise High Control. The fifth principle emphasizes the importance of exercising high control over our minds. Just as we wouldn't allow a stranger into our home, we shouldn't permit insults to become offenses and linger in our minds. Discipline and self-control are the keys to transforming an insult into an opportunity for personal growth and resilience.
Number six: Act According to Your Best Judgment. Moving on, the sixth principle encourages us not to fear the wrong judgments of others. Acting according to our principles, even if misunderstood by others, is a source of strength and authenticity. This principle is particularly relevant in today's era of social media, where the quest for external validation can lead us astray from our true path.
Number seven: No One Can Hurt You. The final principle reinforces the idea that no one can truly hurt us without our consent. By understanding the motivations behind insults and realizing that not everyone shares our worldview, we gain the power to rise above external judgments. Epictetus encourages us to focus on self-knowledge, ask ourselves if we acted wrongly, and find contentment in our own truth.
Conclusion: As we conclude this exploration of Epictetus's Stoic principles, remember that the path to inner peace lies in recognizing what is within our control and what is not. By implementing these principles in our daily lives, we can cultivate a mindset that remains unshaken by external judgments. How long will you delay becoming worthy of the highest progress? Take these teachings to heart and let the wisdom of Epictetus guide you on your journey. Share your thoughts in the comments, and until next time, stay wise.