Big Three
All you need are these: certainty of judgement in the present moment; action for the common good in the present moment; and an attitude of gratitude in the present moment for anything that comes your way.
Marcus Aurelius, Meditations, 9.6
• Perception
• Action
• Will
The three most essential parts of Stoic philosophy.
• Control your perceptions
• Direct your actions properly
• Willingly accept what’s outside your control
That’s all we need to do.
The rest is up to the universe.
Perception
Realize that you should not let yourself become upset by bad luck, ot by other people’s words and actions. This will mostly make you unhappy. Train yourself to step back and view things with a calm and cool mind.
Watch your thoughts like a hawk, notice when they start to spin out of control. Remind yourself that these are only impressions in your mind, not the reality outside.
Action
The way to live is to do good for others. There is no point in accumulating wealth or fame, these things do not bring happiness.
Focus on helping those around you. Help your friends and your family first, but also have a heart for strangers when they need it. Do all of this without expecting anything in return.
Will
Everything in life is determined by fate. Whatever will be will be. You don’t even need to believe in fate. All you need to know, is that you have no control over everything that will happen. There is no point trying to change the world or to make it better. Instead, focus on your own thoughts and actions, which are under your control.
Accept whatever happens to you with equanimity, whether good or bad. Know that if you do this consistently, you will become strong enough to face anything that comes your way
Practicing the big three
You can practice the big three at any time. It doesn’t matter where you are or what you are doing. You can practice the big three while you are working, while you are eating, or while you are taking a walk.
Perception
When you find yourself in a situation where you are feeling negative emotions, take a step back and try to see things from a different perspective. Ask yourself if what you are thinking is really true. Try to see the situation from the other person’s perspective. Try to see the situation from the perspective of someone who doesn’t know you.
Action
You need to be able to recognize when you are feeling negative emotions, so that you can take a step back and try to see things from a different perspective.
Will
Start by identifying your core values and setting clear intentions that align with them. Then, take consistent steps towards your intentions, making necessary changes and overcoming obstacles along the way. Stay motivated by reminding yourself of your why, seeking support from others, and celebrating your progress.
Other factors to consider
- Desire: Do not desire anything that is outside your control. Instead desire to be a good person, to help those around you, to be honest, and to do your duty. Things that are within your control.
- Duty: Do your duty. Whatever your role in life is, do it to the best of your abilities. Do not complain about it, do not try to change it. Just do it
- Death: Remember that you will die. Do not be afraid of death. It is the natural end of life. You do not need to worry about it, because it will happen to you whether you like it or not. Instead focus on living your life to the fullest.