Live Stoic: Aurelius' 9 Life Rules

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Post on Oct 30, 2024

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Live Stoic: Aurelius' 9 Life Rules for a Better Life

We all want a better life, right? A life where we're happier, more resilient, and less stressed. Well, buckle up, because Marcus Aurelius , a Roman emperor and philosopher, might have the answer you're looking for. He's got 9 life rules straight outta Stoicism that could change your game, and we're going to break them down for you.

You've probably heard of Stoicism, that philosophy thing where you're supposed to be chill about everything. Like, "it is what it is, man." But it's more than just being a zen master. Stoicism is about focusing on what you can control and letting go of the rest. Aurelius basically invented the whole "inner peace" thing , and his ideas are just as relevant today as they were back in the day.

Aurelius' 9 Life Rules:

1. Control What You Can Control

This is the foundation of Stoicism. You can't control the weather, the traffic, or what other people think. What you can control is how you react to these things. Think of it like this: You can't stop a bad day, but you can choose to have a good attitude about it.

2. Focus on the Present

Don't dwell on the past or worry about the future. The only time you have is right now. This is where you find true happiness and fulfillment. Think about it this way: You're on a road trip. The only thing you have to focus on is the road ahead, not the places you've already been or the places you're going to.

3. Practice Gratitude

Gratitude is a powerful tool for happiness . Take some time every day to appreciate the good things in your life, no matter how small. Seriously, like, even a decent cup of coffee. It can make all the difference.

4. Embrace Challenges

Obstacles are not meant to stop you, but to help you grow. See setbacks as opportunities to learn and become stronger. Every time you overcome a challenge, you become a little bit more resilient.

5. Be Kind to Yourself

Self-compassion is crucial. Everyone makes mistakes. Don't beat yourself up over them. Forgive yourself, learn from your errors, and move on.

6. Live a Virtuous Life

A life of virtue is a life of purpose . Be honest, just, courageous, and wise. These qualities will lead to a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

7. Be Present in Your Relationships

Connect with others authentically. Be a good listener, offer support, and cherish the people in your life. Think about your friends, family, and even coworkers. A strong support system can make a world of difference.

8. Don't Seek Approval

Don't let the opinions of others define you. Live your life according to your own values and standards. You don't need everyone's approval to be happy.

9. Accept What You Cannot Change

Sometimes, things just happen . You can't always control the situation, but you can control your reaction to it. Accept what you cannot change and focus your energy on what you can.

How to Apply Aurelius' Life Rules to Your Life

It's not just about reading these rules, but integrating them into your daily life. Here are some simple tips:

• Start a gratitude journal: Write down at least 3 things you're grateful for every day.
• Practice mindfulness meditation: This helps you focus on the present moment.
• Challenge yourself to do something new: It can be as simple as taking a different route to work.
• Be kind to yourself: Remember, you are not perfect, and that's okay.
• Help someone in need: Acts of kindness make you feel good and improve your relationships.
• Read Aurelius' Meditations: This book is a treasure trove of wisdom, advice, and life lessons. You can even get an audiobook!

You don't have to be a philosopher to live a better life. Just take a few moments each day to reflect on these rules and apply them to your own life. You might just be surprised at how much better you feel. Seriously, give it a shot!

Disclaimer: This article is for entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice.