The Ana Edit Issue #5: Stoicism
My New Philosophy and How I Am Taking Control Of My Life (P.S. You Can Too!)
Ana's Corner
Nothing too substantial happened in my life this week, albeit it seldom does. To be candid, I have been struggling lately. Quarantine has never been easy or pleasant for me, but even as restrictions are incrementally loosening up I still have the same mentality and distress that persisted during the crux of the storm. To add insult to injury, I start school next week. Usually, I look forward to the start of school. As much as many hate to admit it, school is one of the highlights of our adolescent hood. Sure, tests are stressful, teachers at times unrealistic, and petty drama is well.....petty. Irrespective of these drawbacks, school is a time for socialization and expanding horizons. It has equipped students with the ability to not only live but to thrive. With that being said, there are so many unknown variables this year due to social distancing protocols, poor communication, and upset teachers who are contemplating going on strike. I have done my best to reach out to faculty and staff, but they are just as in the dark as I am. The overwhelming stress and uncertainty would be unbearable were it not for my newfound philosophy of Stoicism. What is stoicism, one may ask? Keep reading to find out.
What is Stoicism?
In colloquial speech, people use the adjective stoic as being emotionless. "Nancy, why are you so stoic? Don't you care?" While I have found myself guilty of using the term this way in the past, the fact of the matter is stoicism is not merely the act of not caring. Instead, it is the act of not concerning oneself with matters one cannot control. Stoicism is the art of focusing on oneself and bettering oneself while letting, in a sense, the chips fall where they may. The four virtues of Stoicism are wisdom, temperance, courage, and justice. By domesticating these skills and focusing on what one can change, one is always better off. For a problem is never the problem, it is how one responds to the problem that is the crux of the issue. This stipulation makes perfect sense when one thinks about it. Many will tout that the power of positive thinking is real; to which, others often roll their eyes. However, is this not one of the few universal truths in life? What benefit does negativity have? Having a pessimistic outlook only serves to upset and leads to one wallowing in a pit of despair whereas positivity or simply indifference can lead one to look objectively at the facts. "Sure, I got fired at my job and that means I will be tight on money this month. However, now I have time to work on that passion project I have been perpetually postponing. Additionally, I can spend more time with my kids, because I miss their soccer games frequently and they will be gone in the blink of an eye. When the time comes, I will apply for a new job and use my experience to portray myself as a wonderful candidate". There is always a silver lining, and if there is not one, it is up to oneself to make it.
How Does One Begin to Practice or Learn About Stoicism?
There are innumerable wonderful materials for learning Stoic philosophy, but the following are some of my favorite resources and tips for implementing stoicism in one's life.
My Favorite Videos For Learning The Basics of Stoicism
My Favorite Youtube Channel for Stoicism
Daily Stoic
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkUaT0T03TJvafYkfATM2Ag
Miscellaneous
The channel above, the "Daily Stoic", has an accompanying website for Stoic fundamentals. On their website, one can find compilations of the best stoic quotes, the basics of Stoicism, recommended readings, and a shop in case one truly wants to be immersed in the world of the Stoics. Furthermore, the website has a Newsletter which I have profusely enjoyed for daily Stoic wisdom.
https://dailystoic.com/
Conclusion
Stoicism is one of the most, in my humble opinion, liberating philosophies that was practiced by inspirational figures from Roman Senators like Marcus Aurelius to Theodore Roosevelt. I beseech everyone to give Stoicism a chance and at the very least respect the ideology. In the future, I will implement a few of my favorite Stoic quotes for some motivation and aphorisms from the most accomplished people in the Stoic faith, so stay tuned!
