Practical Stoicism

Living And Thinking Minimally As A Stoic Who Values Simplicity

Apr 2, 2024

The podcast discusses living simply in a Stoic sense by focusing on what truly matters, reducing mental clutter, and embracing essentialism. It challenges modern minimalism, prioritizing virtue over material excess. Exploring Seneca's admiration for simplicity, it invites listeners to embrace true simplicity by making rational choices.

24:33

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Quick takeaways

Living simply as a Stoic involves focusing on essentials, reducing mental clutter, and prioritizing virtue over material excess.

Stoicism advocates for austerity, distinguishing between necessities and desires, guiding individuals to make deliberate, virtuous choices.

Deep dives

Living Simply or Living Minimally

The podcast episode delves into the concept of living simply and how it relates to minimalism. It distinguishes between contemporary minimalism focused on aesthetics and the stoic perspective of simplicity over complexity in life. The episode emphasizes that minimal living isn't merely about material possessions but about decluttering unnecessary thoughts, leading to a simpler way of thinking. By aligning thoughts with fundamental needs and making choices accordingly, individuals can embody true simplicity.

Introduction

2min

Living Minimally as a Stoic

10min

Exploring Stoic Minimalism and Clear Thinking

4min

Exploring the Notion of Perfect Austerity and Sagehood in Stoicism

3min

The Path to Simplification

7min

In today's episode of "Practical Stoicism," I explore the concept of living simply, not in the sense of minimalism as it's often portrayed—with a focus on physical belongings and a Scandinavian design aesthetic—but in the realm of simplifying our thoughts and, by extension, our lives. While Stoicism isn't about adopting an aesthetic of minimalism, it does advocate for simplicity over complexity in many aspects of life. I delve into how living simply, in a Stoic sense, means focusing on what truly matters, reducing unnecessary mental clutter that leads to physical clutter. By reflecting on Seneca's admiration for Scipio Africanus's modest bathhouse, I illustrate the beauty of simplicity and the Stoic pursuit of focusing on essentials. This episode challenges contemporary culture's superficial grasp of ancient philosophies and invites you to embrace true simplicity by prioritizing virtue and rational choices over material excess.

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Podcast Artwork by Randy Johnson: https://originalrandy.com

Letter 86 from Seneca: https://en.wikisource.org/wiki/Moral_letters_to_Lucilius/Letter_86

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