
The Stoic Handbook by Jon Brooks
The Marcus Aurelius Morning Meditation That Prepared His Mind for Adversity
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Quick takeaways
- Premeditation of adversity involves calmly exploring possible setbacks and mentally preparing for them to navigate with wisdom.
- Marcus Aurelius demonstrated self-control and virtuous behavior in exercising power, serving as an example of maintaining integrity and virtues while in immense authority.
Deep dives
Premeditation of adversity: Marcus Aurelius' morning meditation
Marcus Aurelius, the Stoic philosopher king, used premeditation of adversity as a technique to prepare his mind for difficult encounters. Despite being Emperor of Rome and facing constant challenges, he practiced self-control, virtue, and integrity. Premeditation of adversity involves calmly exploring the possible setbacks and obstacles one might face to psychologically prepare for them. It is not about negative thinking or manifesting negativity, but rather accepting the reality and mentally preparing for it. By practicing premeditation of adversity, one can navigate setbacks with wisdom, make logistical preparations, and cultivate gratitude for the present moment. Marcus Aurelius found tolerance, acceptance, and compassion in his adversity, and others can discover their own strengths and virtues through this practice.