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

"You have power over your mind – not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength." – Marcus Aurelius Modern Understanding: We can't control everything that happens to us, but we can choose how we react. Focusing on our internal responses gives us power. Current Day Use: Stuck in traffic? Instead of getting angry, use the time to practice mindfulness or listen to something relaxing. This shifts your focus from the external frustration you can't control, to your inner state that you can control. Contemplation: How often do you let external events dictate your happiness? What small steps can you take to focus more on your thoughts and reactions, instead of fixating on what's out of your control? Did you enjoy this post? Check out The Dichotomy of Control in the classroom tab.

Here's a summary of the key differences between a novice Stoic and a master Stoic: Novice: * Focuses on controlling emotions: Struggles with negative emotions and seeks to suppress them entirely. * Rigid adherence to principles: May misinterpret Stoic teachings, leading to inflexibility and judgment. * Limited understanding of core concepts: Still grasping the nuances of Stoic philosophy. Master: * Accepts and manages emotions: Views emotions as natural but chooses not to be controlled by them. * Flexible application of principles: Understands that Stoicism is a guide, not a rulebook, and adapts it to their life. * Deep understanding of core concepts: Has integrated Stoic principles into their worldview and lives authentically. Remember, the journey to Stoic mastery is a lifelong pursuit. Be patient with yourself and celebrate your progress along the way.

The quote "Learn to be indifferent to what makes no difference" by Roman emperor and Stoic philosopher Marcus Aurelius encapsulates a core tenet of Stoicism: focusing your energy on what you can control and letting go of what you cannot. It doesn't imply apathy or emotional detachment, but rather wise discernment about where to invest your mental and emotional resources. Modern-day examples: - Traffic delays: You're running late, but getting worked up won't make the traffic move faster. Accept the situation, focus on what you can control (like using the time productively), and let go of frustration over external factors. - Social media negativity: Engaging in online arguments or fixating on negative comments is emotionally draining. Limit your exposure, prioritize constructive interactions, and remember that you can't control others' opinions. - Minor inconveniences: A spilled coffee, a missed train, a frustrating conversation; these can disrupt your day, but dwelling on them only amplifies negativity. Acknowledge them, adjust as needed, and move on with grace. Contemplation for practicing indifference: Imagine yourself standing in a garden. Beautiful flowers bloom alongside weeds and fallen leaves. How can you apply Marcus Aurelius' advice in this scenario? 1. Identify what truly matters: The vibrant flowers represent things within your control (your thoughts, actions, reactions). The weeds and leaves represent external factors beyond your control (events, other people's behavior). 2. Focus your attention: Spend your energy cultivating the flowers, nurturing your positive qualities and pursuing meaningful goals. Don't get stuck pulling weeds, wasting time and energy on things you can't change. 3. Accept impermanence: Flowers fade, leaves fall, and new ones grow. Life is ever-changing. Learn to accept impermanence in both positive and negative situations, and avoid clinging to fleeting experiences. 4. Practice mindfulness: Be present in the moment, observing your thoughts and emotions without judgment. Notice when you get attached to external events and gently redirect your focus to what truly matters. 5. Remember, indifference is not apathy: It's about choosing your battles wisely and investing your energy in creating a fulfilling life, aligned with your values, regardless of external circumstances.

In Stoicism, the dichotomy of control is a foundational concept that empowers individuals to navigate life's uncertainties with greater peace and clarity. It essentially divides everything into two categories: 1. Things within our control. 2. Things beyond our control.https://www.skool.com/stoicism-convo/classroom/cc5e1452