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Ancient Strategies For Managing Stress And Anxiety | Ryan Holiday

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Apr 15, 2024

Guest

Ryan Holiday

In this enlightening discussion, Ryan Holiday, a prolific author known for works like "The Obstacle Is the Way" and host of the Daily Stoic Podcast, explores the ancient philosophy of Stoicism and its modern applications. He delves into key concepts such as premeditatio malorum, memento mori, and amor fati, revealing how they aid in managing stress and anxiety. Holiday emphasizes the value of journaling for self-reflection and discusses the importance of recognizing what is within our control, helping listeners embrace life's unpredictability with resilience.

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ANECDOTE

From Marketing to Stoicism

Ryan Holiday transitioned to Stoicism after a stressful marketing career.
He was drawn to ancient wisdom for managing stress and difficult situations.

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ANECDOTE

Zeno's Shipwreck

Zeno, a merchant, found Stoicism after a shipwreck led him to a bookstore.
There he discovered Socrates' work, leading him to establish Stoicism in the Athenian Agora.

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INSIGHT

Key Figures in Stoicism

Stoicism's core figures include Zeno, Cato, Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius.
Admiral James Stockdale, a Vietnam POW, applied Stoicism during his captivity and advocated it later.

Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode

Stoicism and Stress Management

02:06 • 6min

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Stoicism: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Woes

08:26 • 11min

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Finding Control in Chaos

19:19 • 15min

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Exploring Stoic Principles for Modern Stress Management

34:29 • 4min

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Embracing Mortality: Stoic Reflections

38:22 • 26min

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Exploring Ancient Wisdom for Modern Ethical Living

01:04:20 • 5min

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Stoicism and Social Responsibility

01:09:03 • 10min

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Exploring Stoicism and the Power of Philosophy

In *Ego Is the Enemy*, Ryan Holiday delves into the concept of ego and its detrimental effects on personal and professional success. The book is divided into three sections: Aspiration, Success, and Failure, each offering valuable lessons and perspectives. Holiday draws on a vast array of stories and examples from literature, philosophy, and history, featuring figures such as George Marshall, Jackie Robinson, Katharine Graham, Bill Belichick, and Eleanor Roosevelt. These individuals achieved great success by conquering their own egos, and their strategies and tactics are presented as models for readers. The book emphasizes the importance of staying grounded, continually learning, and embracing a mindset of growth rather than letting ego hinder development.

Right Thing, Right Now

Justice in an Unjust World

Ryan Holiday

In 'Right Thing, Right Now', Ryan Holiday argues for the necessity of doing what’s right, even when it isn’t easy. He draws on stories of historical figures such as Marcus Aurelius, Florence Nightingale, Jimmy Carter, Gandhi, and Frederick Douglass to illustrate the importance of justice, kindness, honesty, integrity, and loyalty. The book emphasizes that justice is not an abstract concept but a daily practice that shapes one’s character and impacts those around us. Holiday challenges readers to develop their own moral code and uphold it consistently, providing concrete steps and exercises to help incorporate these values into their lives.

The obstacle is the way

Ryan Holiday

In 'The Obstacle Is the Way', Ryan Holiday presents a framework for turning obstacles into successes. Drawing from the philosophy of Stoicism and the writings of Marcus Aurelius, Holiday outlines three disciplines: perception, action, and will. He illustrates these principles with historical anecdotes from figures such as John D. Rockefeller, Amelia Earhart, Ulysses S. Grant, and Steve Jobs. The book emphasizes the importance of perception in shaping one's response to obstacles, the need for intentional and creative action, and the cultivation of will to persist through challenges. Holiday argues that by adopting these Stoic principles, individuals can transform their obstacles into opportunities for growth and success.

Discipline is Destiny

The Power of Self-Control

Ryan Holiday

In 'Discipline is Destiny', Ryan Holiday explores the Stoic virtue of self-discipline, drawing on historical figures and contemporary examples to illustrate its transformative power. The book emphasizes that discipline is the foundation upon which other virtues such as courage, justice, and wisdom depend. Holiday argues that self-control is essential for personal triumph and fulfillment, and he provides engaging stories and practical advice on how to cultivate discipline in a world filled with distractions and temptations. The book also cautions against the perils of extravagance and hedonism, stressing the importance of balance and self-mastery in achieving success and happiness.

The Enchiridion

Epictetus

Tony Darnell

Thomas Wentworth Higginson

The Enchiridion is a concise summary of the basic ideas of Stoic philosophy and provides techniques for transforming these principles into a way of life. It was compiled by Arrian from the teachings of Epictetus and is notable for its practical advice on moral conduct in various life situations. Unlike the Discourses, which present Epictetus' teachings in a more dynamic and situational context, the Enchiridion is a more structured and concise guide to Stoic living.

Meditations

Marcus Aurelius

Meditations is a series of private writings composed by Marcus Aurelius, one of Rome's greatest emperors, as he struggled to understand himself and make sense of the universe. Written between 170 and 180 CE while on military campaigns, this work combines Stoic philosophy with personal observations on leadership, duty, mortality, and human nature. Through twelve books of intimate thoughts never intended for publication, Marcus Aurelius explores themes of self-improvement, resilience in the face of adversity, and living virtuously while accepting what cannot be changed.

Letters from a Stoic

Seneca

Seneca's "Letters from a Stoic" comprises a collection of personal letters offering practical advice on living a virtuous life according to Stoic principles. Written to Lucilius, a friend and student, the letters cover a wide range of topics, including dealing with adversity, managing emotions, and finding inner peace. Seneca's writing style is engaging and relatable, making complex philosophical concepts accessible to a wider audience. The letters offer timeless wisdom on self-improvement and ethical living. They remain a valuable resource for anyone seeking guidance on navigating life's challenges.

Devil Makes Three

Ben Fountain

Devil Makes Three is a propulsive novel that delves into the tumultuous world of Haiti following the 1991 coup that ousted President Jean-Bertrand Aristide. The story follows a diverse cast of characters, including American expats and Haitian nationals, as they navigate the treacherous landscape of political upheaval and personal survival. The novel explores themes of power, greed, and the complex interplay of international politics.

New episodes come out every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday for free, with 1-week early access for Wondery+ subscribers.

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Digging into the nuts and bolts of Stoicism with one of its best-known modern proponents.

Ryan Holiday is a prolific author, whose books include The Obstacle Is the Way, Ego Is the Enemy, and Discipline is Destiny. His newest book, Right Thing, Right Now, comes out in June, and is available for pre-order now. Ryan is also the host of the Daily Stoic Podcast.

In this episode we talk about:

The history and theory of Stoicism, and some of its big names (including a former Vice Presidential candidate)
Premeditatio Melorem, or thinking ahead to the worst possible outcome in order to avoid it
Memento Mori, or being aware of the inevitability of one’s own death
Amor Fati, or “loving one’s fate” as a path to acceptance of reality
Journaling as a key Stoic practice, of talking to oneself on the page
The four Stoic values: Courage, Temperance, Justice, Wisdom
How Stoicism and Buddhism overlap – and how they don’t

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The Dharma of Artificial Intelligence (AI) | Jasmine Wang & Iain S. Thomas

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