The Daily Stoic

Can You Return With Honor? | Why You Need To Do Something Hard EVERY SINGLE DAY

68 snips
Sep 19, 2025
Explore the concept of returning with honor through the lens of Stoicism. Hear inspiring stories of resilience from POWs, including James Stockdale, and learn how historical figures like Marcus Aurelius embodied this ideal. Delve into why embracing difficulty is vital for personal growth, from cold plunges to rigorous training. Discover how facing hard challenges builds mental toughness and character, encouraging a mindset that thrives in adversity.
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ANECDOTE

Prisoners Who Chose Honor

  • James Stockdale led POWs in North Vietnam who refused special treatment and held themselves to a code of conduct.
  • They resisted torture and cared for each other so they could return home with honor.
ADVICE

Make Honor Your Standard

  • Let returning with honor be your standard for every mission and role you take on.
  • Make choices so you can come back with your character and conscience intact.
ADVICE

Use Physical Hardness To Build Will

  • Do hard physical practices regularly to build a mental muscle for endurance and self-control.
  • Treat the body rigorously so it does not become disobedient to the mind.
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