The What Is Stoicism? Podcast How to Get Out of Your Own Way
May 28, 2025
Delve into the art of perception and how it influences our emotional landscape. Discover the profound insights of Epictetus and the wisdom of Nan Shepherd as they reveal how reclaiming control over our judgments can liberate us from unnecessary suffering. Journey from childhood envy to a richer, grounded existence by shifting focus from external validation to internal awareness. This insightful discussion encourages embracing the beauty of life beyond societal pressures.
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Stories of Judgment-Driven Desire
- A child suddenly desires a toy only when another child has it, driven by judgment, not the toy itself.
- Epaphroditus treats Felicio better only after status changes, showing how judgments shift with appearances.
Control Judgments to Free Emotions
- Our emotional suffering is caused by our judgments on events, not the events themselves.
- Reclaiming control over our judgments allows us to free ourselves from needless suffering.
Nan Shepherd's Mindful Mountain View
- Nan Shepherd finds peace by truly looking at mountains, seeing beauty beyond rough shapes.
- Her perception, like Stoic thought, places beauty in mind's interpretation rather than external dominance.
