Consistent Stoic Practice Prevents Habitual Drift and Fosters Growth

Key Quotes

"Marcus Aurelius in Meditations calls it madness to keep being the same person mauled and degraded by the life we don't enjoy the one that doesn't give us what we want."

The author argues that continuing to live a life that brings dissatisfaction and unhappiness, without making any changes, is a form of madness. This quote highlights the Stoic perspective that self-awareness of one's discontent is the first step toward seeking a better way of living.

"One thing the Stoics can say for sure is that no one becomes this way by chance and if you want to end up there this year i'd like to invite you to do something that i do myself with my team with my family with my friends every single year and that is the daily stoic new year new you challenge."

The author explains that achieving personal growth or significant life changes is not accidental but requires deliberate effort. He introduces the "Daily Stoic New Year New You" challenge as a structured opportunity to actively pursue self-improvement, emphasizing that intentionality is key to transformation.

"Walk the long gallery of the past of empires of kingdoms succeeding each other without number and you can also see the future for surely it will be exactly the same unable to deviate from the present rhythm it's all one whether we've experienced 40 years or an eon what more is there to see."

This quote from Marcus Aurelius suggests a cyclical view of history and existence, implying that patterns repeat and the fundamental nature of life remains constant across vast stretches of time. The author uses this to illustrate that understanding this rhythm can provide perspective on our present experiences.

"When forced as it seems by circumstances into utter confusion get a hold of yourself quickly don't be locked out of the rhythm any longer than necessary you'll be able to keep the beat if you are constantly returning to it."

The author relays Epictetus's advice on maintaining composure during chaotic or confusing times. This quote emphasizes the Stoic practice of self-discipline and the importance of quickly re-centering oneself to stay aligned with one's principles and purpose, rather than succumbing to external disturbances.

"The busier we get, the more we work and learn and read, the further we drift. We get in a rhythm we're making money, being creative, we're stimulated and busy and it seems like everything is going well but we drift further and further from philosophy."

The author reflects on how increased activity and apparent success can paradoxically lead to a detachment from core philosophical principles. He points out that even when engaged in productive pursuits, one can unconsciously move away from the foundational wisdom that guides a meaningful life.

"We should seek to do the same there is no excuse for being too busy or too distracted nor is there any alternative so anyways if you feel like you're slipping a little bit know that i do that too and i have now for well over a decade and a half and uh you just pick yourself back up you go back to the rhythm as marcus aurelius says you pick up your philosophy you return to it and uh you keep going."

The author shares a personal anecdote about his own struggles with maintaining focus and discipline, acknowledging that even those who advocate for Stoicism experience lapses. He concludes by reinforcing the Stoic practice of self-correction, encouraging listeners to return to their philosophical grounding and persevere.