Stoic Snippets: When Times Are Tough

One universal truth is that we will all go through hardships. What is far less universal is successfully navigating those hardships. This is what the Stoics excelled at, taking harships and turning them into blessings. Find out how in this short and sweet stoic snippet.

Transcript

Welcome to Stoic Snippets, The philosophy track that is short in length but not in depth. Today we're talking about when times are tough. While I'm recording this in the UK it's fast becoming gloomy and cold as we approach winter. It's always a shock to my African blood. To add to this the Act of Strike is into its 104th day meaning there has been very little work on the stunt front. Oh and of course one of my cars has broken down. Now I'm sure you can relate in some way. If not these exact hardships then something like it. It's easy to wish that these things never happened to us. That life would be easy breezy. Well here's the news. That's not the Stoic way. Seneca shocks us all with this beautiful quote. No man is more unhappy than when he never faces adversity. For he is not permitted to prove himself. You see the Stoics saw hardship as an opportunity to put their philosophy and themselves to the test. It's easy to be kind and patient when things are great. But what about when you are in amongst it? When you are deep in the depths of adversity? He goes on. I judge you unfortunate because you have never lived through misfortune. You have passed through life without an opponent. No one can ever know what you are capable of. Not even you. So as hardships befall you and as you go through them. Instead of lamenting on the fact that it's happening to you. See yourself as a fighter and the hardship as a challenger stepping into the ring. Challenging you to go toe-to-toe with them. I have no doubt that you are stronger than them. So rejoice in the opportunity to exhibit your strength. And as you imagine yourself in this ring of adversity. Look back into your corner and see Seneca as he says these final words of wisdom to you. To bear trials with a calm mind robs misfortune of its strength and burden. So now go be calm and go be victorious. No matter what hardship comes your way. Now if you enjoyed that you are gonna love my courses on stoicism. Go check them out. I got a brand new one out called seven days of stoic strength. It's actually got three parts to it making it 21 days in total. A real challenge for those that are up for a challenge. Hopefully I'll see you in there. Take care.

Reviews

This is inspiring to me. Listening from time to time when I feel overwhelmed. Thank you Doug! 🙏🤍