Chapter 1: Understanding Stoicism

This morning, I noticed an intriguing question on my feed that compelled me to shift my planned content. It asked:

"What routines in Stoicism can help one embody the Stoic mindset?"

This is a fascinating subject and clearly something you're curious about, or you wouldn't be diving into the reflections of a seasoned Stoic practitioner seeking to uncover the answer.

Greetings, I'm The Wayward Stoic, and today we will delve into the practices and rituals associated with Stoic philosophy.

Before we proceed, it's essential to clarify a common misconception. Stoicism is not a religion, nor does it aim to replace one's spiritual beliefs. Instead, it seeks to distinguish itself from the dogmas of organized faith.

That said, many Stoics do engage with organized religion, acknowledging the valuable insights and morals it offers. This is where confusion often arises. Many outsiders view Stoicism similarly to a religion, perceiving it as a belief system with moral guidelines that adherents follow.

However, Stoicism, often referred to in the Western context, is fundamentally a philosophy—not a religion. It was never designed to supplant faith but serves as a standalone framework that can coexist harmoniously with religious beliefs.

The essence of Stoic philosophy lies in its ability to help shape you into the individual you aspire to be—calm and balanced. This is achieved through a steadfast commitment to the Four Cardinal Virtues and the Seven Threads of Stoicism.

But this doesn't quite answer your question, does it? You're correct.

We need a relevant starting point, and this serves as a solid foundation.

So, if you're looking to embrace Stoicism or deepen your understanding of this philosophy but feel uncertain about how to proceed, you're in the right place.

It's important to note that there’s no secret formula. While having mentors and peers can be beneficial for guidance, they are merely influences.

A Stoic's stance on external influence is clear: we strive to resist those that are beyond our control or comprehension. Every action is measured against the Stoic Virtues, and that's your starting point for establishing a routine.

Each Stoic philosopher has unique rituals and habits that inspire reflection and action. Among the most effective tools at your disposal are meditation and contemplation. Taking a moment to pause and reflect is invaluable. There is no right or wrong way to practice Stoicism, as long as it aligns with the Cardinal Virtues: Wisdom, Justice, Courage, and Temperance.

Once these virtues form your foundation, you can explore more complex ideas, such as the Seven Threads of Stoicism, which integrate "Spirit, Mind, and Body" with the Cardinal Virtues. Always remember that no virtue is superior; they must all function in harmony.

If you’re new to this journey, begin with small, manageable steps. Use the Cardinal Virtues as your anchor and reflect on your daily experiences. Detach yourself from the influence of ego to perceive what you may have overlooked.

Seek to understand how your words and actions influence the world and those around you. Assess whether these actions align with the Cardinal Virtues.

You’ll soon recognize that all lives are interconnected, forming a web of shared consciousness. Each person's existence resonates with another's.

As you grasp this interconnectedness, weigh your thoughts and actions against the Cardinal Virtues. This self-assessment may be uncomfortable, as acknowledging faults is never easy.

Yet, if you find mistakes, take ownership with integrity. Learn from these experiences—they are just as crucial as those that lead to success.

Pay attention to how specific emotions and triggers affect you and those around you differently. Cultivating empathy for others is a cornerstone of Stoic practice. This is where I recommend you begin.

Once you feel you've achieved a degree of self-mastery, revisit your thoughts, words, or experiences. You may find that the teachings of Stoicism are layered, with insights from yesterday bearing relevance for tomorrow.

In the video "Routines are Fragile... Try These 10 Stoic Practices Instead," you'll discover practical Stoic practices that can help you establish a resilient routine.

The second video, "10 Stoic Habits To Practice In 2024," outlines essential habits to incorporate into your daily life to enhance your Stoic journey.