Practical Stoicism

Breaking Bad Habits And Habituating Good Ones

Mar 29, 2024

Delve into forming good habits and breaking bad ones with insights from Stoic philosophers. Learn to distinguish between control and influence, reshape behavior, and cultivate virtuous habits. Explore the power of conscious choices, personal connections, and tactile reminders in transforming ingrained behaviors towards self-discipline.

26:06

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Quick takeaways

Our habits are a reflection of conscious choices we make, emphasizing the importance of character in shaping behavior.

Visual reminders and 'three to one' strategy disrupt habitual patterns, promoting mindful choices and intentional decision-making.

Deep dives

Habits Rooted in Choice

Our habits, whether good or bad, stem from choices we make. The podcast delves into how our character and behaviors are a result of habituated choices. It explores the analogy of shapes like cones and cylinders to illustrate how characters influence behaviors. While habits may seem ingrained, the episode emphasizes that change is possible through conscious choices, albeit requiring significant effort.

Introduction

2min

Exploration of Stoic Philosophy, Self-Improvement, and Habit Formation

5min

Exploring Personal Choice and Behavior Through Stoic Philosophy

4min

Changing Ingrained Behaviors Through Conscious Effort

9min

Empowering Choices Through Tactile Reminders and Mentors

8min

In this practical episode of "Practical Stoicism," I delve into the critical art of forming good habits, a cornerstone of personal growth and self-improvement. Starting with a deep dive into the nature of bad habits—those that are not chemical addictions or compulsions but rather result from habituated choices—I draw from the profound insights of Epictetus on the realms of choice and control.

I emphasize that our actions and behaviors are within our grasp, aiming to guide you through the transformative process of becoming your best self by making deliberate choices. By clearly distinguishing between what is within our control and what is not, I set the stage for overcoming undesirable habits.

With wisdom from Chrysippus and practical strategies for reshaping our behavior, this episode offers a Stoic roadmap to replace chronic behaviors with virtuous habits, guiding you on a transformative journey towards self-discipline and enlightened character development.

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