Tim LeBon, cognitive-behavioural psychotherapist, discusses the relationship between Stoicism and CBT, recent advances in third-wave CBT, and what he has learned as research director with Modern Stoicism. He also introduces his book '365 Ways to be More Stoic', debunking stoic myths and offering daily readings and success stories for applying stoic principles in modern life.
Stoicism can complement cognitive behavioral therapy as an adjunct measure, particularly for anger management and long-term physical conditions, appealing to populations resistant to traditional therapy.
Research has shown that stoicism enhances resilience, reduces negative emotions, and increases positive emotions, supporting its value in improving mental well-being and personal growth.
Stoicism is not about emotional repression but emphasizes virtues like self-control, courage, and wisdom, offering valuable insights to lead a fulfilling life.
Deep dives
Stoicism and CBT: A Comparison of Philosophical Approaches
Stoicism and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) have several similarities in their approach to mental well-being. Both emphasize the importance of recognizing and challenging negative thoughts and beliefs. The founders of CBT, inspired by Epictetus, valued the view that people are disturbed not by external events, but by how they perceive and interpret them. Stoicism can be seen as a trans-diagnostic approach, providing a philosophical framework for resilience building and everyday life challenges. Stoicism has the potential to complement CBT protocols as an adjunct or preventive measure, particularly for anger management and issues related to long-term physical conditions. Stoicism also appeals to populations that may be resistant to traditional therapy, such as men and individuals in the military or prison. Overall, stoicism offers a unique perspective on mental well-being that is worth exploring as a therapy option.
The Benefits of Stoicism: Research Findings
Research on stoicism has shown that it can have a positive impact on well-being, reducing negative emotions such as anger and sadness while increasing positive emotions like joy. Stoicism has also been found to enhance resilience, helping individuals bounce back from challenging situations. Moreover, stoicism has been associated with increased character strengths, with zest being the virtue most strongly correlated with stoicism. These research findings support the notion that stoicism can be a valuable philosophy for improving mental well-being and personal growth. Additionally, stoicism has been found to effectively address anger and frustration, offering a unique perspective on dealing with these emotions. Overall, stoicism has shown promise in research and has the potential to provide practical and evidence-based strategies for enhancing well-being.
Challenging Misconceptions About Stoicism
Contrary to common misconceptions, stoicism does not advocate emotional repression or a stiff upper lip mentality. Instead, stoicism emphasizes virtues such as self-control, courage, wisdom, and justice. Stoicism is not synonymous with a stoic disposition but offers a philosophy of life that can help individuals flourish. Research has debunked the association of stoicism with toxic masculinity or passive attitudes. In fact, stoicism can be practiced in a compassionate and self-compassionate manner. By reframing stoicism in a more relatable and accessible way, it can appeal to a diverse audience and offer valuable insights into living a fulfilling life.
365 Ways to Be More Stoic: A Unique Stoicism Guide
The book '365 Ways to Be More Stoic' offers a fresh perspective on stoicism, making it relatable and accessible to readers. The book is distilled into daily vignettes, making it ideal for quick and enjoyable reading. It includes over 50 real-life stoic success stories, highlighting how stoicism has positively influenced individuals from diverse backgrounds. The book also integrates insights from positive psychology, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and practical philosophy. Through this integration, the book provides evidence-based strategies for improving well-being and developing virtues. '365 Ways to Be More Stoic' seeks to inspire readers to embrace stoicism, cultivate resilience, and lead a happier and more fulfilling life.
A Stoic Approach to Mental Health and Resilience
Stoicism presents a unique philosophical approach to mental health and resilience. Stoic teachings encourage individuals to focus on what they can control and accept what is beyond their control. By embracing virtues such as wisdom, courage, justice, and self-control, individuals can cultivate resilience and lead a more flourishing life despite challenging circumstances. Stoicism offers a practical framework for recognizing and challenging negative thoughts, improving emotional well-being, and enhancing personal growth. Its emphasis on character strengths and living in accordance with one's values appeals to a wide range of individuals, including those who may be resistant to traditional therapy. Ultimately, stoicism provides valuable tools and perspectives for navigating life's ups and downs, promoting mental well-being, and fostering resilience.
In this episode, I chat with Tim LeBon, cognitive-behavioural psychotherapist, research director for the Modern Stoicism organization, and author of Wise Therapy: Philosophy for Counsellors, Teach Yourself Positive Psychology, and more recently, 365 Ways to be More Stoic, edited by my wife Kasey Pierce.
Topics covered include…
* How Tim first got into philosophical practice and Stoicism
* The relationship between Stoicism and CBT in general
* Stoicism and third-wave CBT — recent advances
* What Tim has learned about Stoicism from his experience as research director with Modern Stoicism
* What's 365 Ways like? How it differs from other Stoicism books
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Tim’s new book, edited by my wife, Kasey Pierce, is now available from all good bookstores.
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