What we can learn from the Stoics
Sometimes we need to change our situation. I'm 100% here for this. But sometimes it's more about changing our mindset. Maybe you have tried thinking of what you are grateful for every day and felt the powerful effect of this simple practice? This year I’ve been trying out some new tools to build my appreciation muscle. And seeing how these help me and my clients. Which led me to the Stoics...
Back in ancient Greece, the Stoics saw that happiness is not always about getting what you want. It’s more about wanting the things you already have. And spending your effort on the latter, rather than the former.
These 3 tools above can help us reframe our thoughts and accept, appreciate (and even savour) what we have in life. See how they work for you. They take seconds and can create powerful changes, especially if we use them daily.
The Last Time
As you go through your day, each time you do something, imagine this is the last time you do it. See how this shifts your experience and makes you savour things.
Negative Visualisation
Think about what in life you may take for granted. For a moment, imagine life without this thing or person. What would be missing? Do this consciously for a few minutes every day.
Dream Life
No matter how much more you want in life, you are living the dream life of someone else. Look at your life from this perspective for a moment. See what you have here, now.
Want to know more? Read The Stoic Challenge William B. Irvine.
