Modern Stoicism

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Origins
Stoicism is an ancient Greek school of philosophy developed by Zeno of Citium around 300 BC. It's a philosophy based on personal ethics which teaches the development of self control and fortitude as a means of overcoming destructive emotions. The teachings of stoicism have stood the test of time and the stoic mindset still has a practical use in todays society.

 Teachings
Stoicism focuses on controlling our own actions and directing our own thoughts in a world filled with unpredictability. It teaches that we cannot control or change external events that have already happened, all we can do is provide our best response to any situation. Aptly put - "Focus on what you can control, accept what you can't".

 Stoicism also teaches students to live a virtuous, benevolent life. Through 4 cardinal virtues, stoic philosophy teaches us to become our best selves and flourish as human beings. These are:
  • Wisdom
  • Fairness
  • Courage 
  • Self Discipline
Through perpetual practice and study of these virtues, students will find themselves closer towards the ultimate goal in life. This, according to the stoics, is the perfection of reason and living according to virtue. Stoicism has many more teachings and if by now it's something you're interested in then Meditations by Marcus Aurelius is worth the read.

 Applications
  • It can be helpful in accepting death. Stoicism teaches that we are just part of a universal life form that will exist before and after us. Therefore, as we cannot control it, we must be indifferent to its nature.
  • Stoicism severely diminishes anxiety and worry by teaching a practical, logical mindset that can be applicable to any situation. 
  • Stoicism teaches mental toughness by advising us to put ourself through voluntary discomfort so we can become more prepared for the challenges of life. This can be as simple as cold showers in the morning. 



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