Stoicism: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Times

Written by Amani Rizwan

Thumbnail & Banner Photo by Brandon Kralik

Stoicism, the ancient Greco-Roman philosophy that captivated the minds of luminaries like Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and even Albert Camus, has experienced a resurgence in today's world. In an age where anxiety and uncertainty loom large, I believe that its timeless principles offer a refreshing antidote to the stresses of daily life. At the heart of Stoicism lies the notion that we cannot control the external world, but can only control our own thoughts, emotions, and actions. By creating an unshakable inner calm and focusing on what is within their power, Stoics learned to navigate the mess of existence with a sense of equanimity and purpose. Like a sturdy ship weathering a storm, we can find stability and meaning amidst the chaos through  Stoicism, which reminds us that true freedom lies in the mastery of our own minds. It beckons us to reclaim our autonomy, and embrace the power of our own resilience.

The idea of stoicism originated in ancient Greece around the 3rd century BCE, and at its core stood the likes of Zeno of Citium, the visionary who first laid the foundations of this philosophy. He established the pillars of Stoicism that would later influence Seneca, the philosopher-playwright, who wove those principles into his own renowned works like Letters to Lucilius, and Six Tragedies. And then there was Epictetus, the former slave who rose to become a revered teacher, imparting the Stoic way of life with an unparalleled wisdom born of his own experiences. One of these experiences involved his sadistic and depraved master twisting his leg, to which Epictetus only calmly warned him about taking it too far. And when his leg did snap in half, he shed no tears, and instead smiled saying, “Didn’t I warn you?” These titans of Stoicism, each with their unique perspectives, collectively carved out a philosophy that continues to resonate with the masses, offering a steadfast guide to navigating the absurdities and uncertainties of human existence. Their teachings, rooted in the pursuit of virtue, self-control, and the acceptance of one's circumstances, have the power to transform not just how we think, but how we live – with a quiet dignity, and an unwavering resilience in the face of fear.

But one can not think of Stoicism without thinking of the reputable Marcus Aurelius, perhaps as the biggest and most famous pioneer of the doctrine. As the Roman Emperor from 161 to 180 CE, Marcus Aurelius was no ordinary ruler. While he commanded legions and navigated everything from wars against the Parthian Empire, to the rise of Christianity, barbarian tribes, and the Antonine plague, Aurelius’ true passion lay in the realm of philosophy - specifically, the enduring teachings of Stoicism. A devoted practitioner of this ancient Greek school of thought, he penned his famous work "Meditations," a collection of personal reflections that have inspired generations of readers long after his reign. Written between 170 and 180 CE, the journals of Aurelius were never intended for public view, and perhaps that’s what makes them so special. Within its pages, we glimpse the mind of a man grappling with the challenges of power, the fragility of life, and the search for inner peace. He wrote about a variety of topics, like the importance of self-reflection, the foolishness of fame, and the clarity that comes with accepting death and living life to the fullest. He argued that one doesn’t “lose more life” by dying early — everyone’s going to die at some point, so the only thing one is losing is the present moment, because that’s really the only thing guaranteed in life. If anything, Aurelius' Stoic wisdom reminds us that true strength lies not in the trappings of authority, but in the cultivation of virtues like temperance, courage, and self-control. His words urge us to embrace the absurdities of existence, to find solace in the present moment, and to meet adversity with a resolute spirit. 

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Incorporating Stoicism into one’s life can be extremely beneficial, especially as a student juggling the pressures of academic and personal responsibilities. One of the easiest and most practical ways to do so is through regular reflections, akin to Marcus Aurelius’ journaling in “Meditations.” Spending a couple minutes everyday writing about one’s thoughts and challenges, can help one gain clarity and a sense of control over one’s emotions. Additionally, practising mindfulness and grounding oneself in the present moment can help one detach from stress about things like future exams or assignments. By understanding and fully accepting what one cannot control in their environment, one can reduce anxiety and focus on the things one can control — study habits, time management, attitudes, etc. Embracing these principles can create a more cohesive, balanced, and purposeful life with tools to navigate any challenge.

All in all, there’s no denying that Stoicism stands as a beacon of steadfast wisdom and resilience. Thanks to its founders, we can strive to be the best versions of ourselves through simple, yet profound, acts of good. Whether navigating the stresses of the corporate world or the tumultuous seas that are personal relationships, the lessons of Stoicism are applicable in almost any situation, reminding us that true fulfilment lies not in the pursuit of material wealth or fleeting accolades, but in the cultivation of inner strength, discipline, and a profound appreciation for the present moment. In an era where anxiety and burnout have become all too common, consider Stoicism as a prescription for instant inner peace, and face life's inevitable challenges with a rebellious spirit.