This profound quote from Roman emperor and Stoic philosopher Marcus Aurelius is as relevant today as ever. In our fast-paced world filled with negativity and distractions, it's easy to let our thoughts spiral and impact our happiness. But here's the good news: we have the power to control our thoughts. By consciously choosing to focus on the positive, we can cultivate greater happiness and well-being. Here are some tips to put Aurelius' quote into practice: * Challenge negative thoughts: When a negative thought arises, question its validity. Is it helpful or based on reality? Reframe negative thoughts into more positive and realistic ones. * Practice gratitude: Take time each day to appreciate the good things in your life, big or small. Gratitude fosters a positive outlook and boosts happiness. * Focus on what you can control: Don't dwell on things outside your control, like past events or other people's actions. Instead, channel your energy into what you can influence, like your own thoughts, actions, and reactions. * Mindfulness: Practice mindfulness exercises like meditation or deep breathing to become more aware of your thoughts and feelings. This allows you to observe them without judgment and choose how to respond. By taking charge of your thoughts, you can unlock greater happiness and, you can unlock greater happiness and live a more fulfilling life, inspired by the wisdom of Marcus Aurelius. Stoicism Convo

How do I share/invite others to this community?

This morning I went in search of a quote, something I recall hearing Jim Rohn talk about, and found Letters to a Young Poet by Mr. Rainer Maria Rilke, born in 1975 and published this book in 1929. “dear Sir, love your solitude and try to sing out with the pain it causes you. For those who are near you are far away... and this shows that the space around you is beginning to grow vast.... be happy about your growth, in which of course you can't take anyone with you, and be gentle with those who stay behind; be confident and calm in front of them and don't torment them with your doubts and don't frighten them with your faith or joy, which they wouldn't be able to comprehend. Seek out some simple and true feeling of what you have in common with them, which doesn't necessarily have to alter when you yourself change again and again; when you see them, love life in a form that is not your own and be indulgent toward those who are growing old, who are afraid of the aloneness that you trust.... and don't expect any understanding; but believe in a love that is being stored up for you like an inheritance, and have faith that in this love there is a strength and a blessing so large that you can travel as far as you wish without having to step outside it. Rainer Maria Rilke, Letters to a Young Poet

Today I would like to share something which has been challenging for me throughout my Stoic journey. Often times, we find ourselves entangled in our own thoughts and beliefs that we unknowingly ignite our preaching mode. Life will always pitch you curve balls to either dodge or get carried along. Stoicism offers advice to handle similar situations. However I wanted to share with you my thoughts on this topic and would love to hear from you: - Focus on practical solutions rather than idealistic ideologies. - Acknowledge differing perspectives without imposing personal beliefs. - Encourage open dialogue and respect for diverse opinions. - Avoid imposing moral judgments and allow room for individual choices. - Emphasize understanding and empathy rather than persuasion. - Respect boundaries and autonomy of others. - Provide support and resources for informed decision-making. Has anyone of you experienced similar situations? Have a great day.

I am a huge fan of Sun Tzu's work titled "The Art of War". This is not a treatise on Stoicism, but it contains many life truths and wisdom also proclaimed by Stoics. In fact, it was the first "philosophical" work I ever read, and it ultimately pushed me towards stoicism. Have you read this book and do you have any thoughts about it? Maybe you know other non-Stoic works that in some way inspired you to follow the path of stoicism? Please share your own experiences.