How To Make Better Use Of Your Time | Ask Daily Stoic

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Nov 11, 2022

Discover the foundational role of reading in personal growth, illustrated through anecdotes of historical leaders like Harry Truman. Learn to balance being present with future planning while navigating information overload. Explore the interplay between Stoicism and spirituality, highlighting shared virtues and how these philosophies can coexist. This discussion offers practical insights for cultivating effective reading habits and embracing Stoic principles in everyday life.

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ANECDOTE

Truman's Reading List

Harry Truman, a haberdasher, recommended 10 books to a young Albert Ridge.
Ridge became a US Circuit Judge, demonstrating reading's transformative power.

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ANECDOTE

Aurelius's Inspiration

Marcus Aurelius' life transformed after receiving Epictetus' lectures.
This single recommendation propelled him to become a great Roman Emperor.

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ADVICE

Read to Lead

Join the Daily Stoic Read to Lead Challenge to cultivate a reading habit.
It's designed for aspiring leaders who value reading.

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Balancing Present Awareness with Future Preparedness

04:03 • 11min

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Exploring the Intersection of Stoicism and Spirituality

Epictetus's teachings, preserved in the "Enchiridion" and "Discourses," are cornerstones of Stoic philosophy. He emphasized the importance of inner freedom, achieved through self-control and acceptance of what we cannot change. His focus on reason and virtue as paths to happiness continues to resonate with modern readers. Epictetus's work offers practical guidance for navigating life's challenges and finding contentment amidst adversity. His emphasis on living in accordance with nature and focusing on what we can control remains highly relevant today.

The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin

Benjamin Franklin

The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin is a classic and influential work that covers various periods of Franklin's life. It is divided into four parts, written at different times, and includes his childhood, apprenticeship to his brother James, his early methodical plans for 'arriving at moral perfection,' his experiments with electricity, and his political career. The autobiography provides an intimate and honest account of Franklin's life, reflecting his determination, work ethic, and practical wisdom. Despite its tortuous publication history, it remains one of the most famous autobiographies ever written.

Stillness is the Key

Ryan Holiday

In 'Stillness is the Key', Ryan Holiday explores the concept of inner stillness as a universal principle across different philosophical and religious traditions, including Stoicism, Buddhism, Epicureanism, and more. The book is divided into three sections: stillness of the mind, stillness of the spirit, and stillness of the body. Holiday argues that cultivating stillness allows for better decision-making, increased focus, and a more fulfilling life. He uses anecdotes from historical figures and contemporary examples to illustrate the importance of moderation, patience, and self-awareness in achieving this state of stillness.

Meditations

Marcus Aurelius

Meditations is a series of private writings composed by Marcus Aurelius, one of Rome's greatest emperors, as he struggled to understand himself and make sense of the universe. Written between 170 and 180 CE while on military campaigns, this work combines Stoic philosophy with personal observations on leadership, duty, mortality, and human nature. Through twelve books of intimate thoughts never intended for publication, Marcus Aurelius explores themes of self-improvement, resilience in the face of adversity, and living virtuously while accepting what cannot be changed.

Letters from a Stoic

Seneca

Seneca's "Letters from a Stoic" comprises a collection of personal letters offering practical advice on living a virtuous life according to Stoic principles. Written to Lucilius, a friend and student, the letters cover a wide range of topics, including dealing with adversity, managing emotions, and finding inner peace. Seneca's writing style is engaging and relatable, making complex philosophical concepts accessible to a wider audience. The letters offer timeless wisdom on self-improvement and ethical living. They remain a valuable resource for anyone seeking guidance on navigating life's challenges.

Plutarch's Lives

Plutarch

Plutarch's Lives, also known as Parallel Lives, is a collection of 48 biographies of notable men from ancient Greece and Rome. The work is structured in pairs, with one Greek and one Roman figure of similar destiny, such as Alexander the Great and Julius Caesar, or Demosthenes and Cicero. Plutarch's primary concern was not to write strict historical accounts but to explore the moral virtues and failings of his subjects, aiming to provide examples of conduct to imitate or avoid. The biographies are significant not only for their insight into the individuals but also for their historical value, offering a glimpse into the times in which they lived.

Caesar's Commentaries

None

Julius Caesar

Julius Caesar's Commentaries are detailed accounts of his military campaigns in Gaul and the Roman Civil War. They provide valuable historical information about Roman military tactics and strategy. The Commentaries are also significant for their literary style and influence on subsequent military writing. Caesar's clear and concise prose makes the accounts engaging and accessible. The Commentaries remain a crucial source for understanding Roman history and military affairs.

Years before he became president, Harry Truman owned a haberdashery that doubled as a local hang-out. A kid named Albert Ridge would often head there after his shift at the neighborhood grocery store. For the rest of his life, Ridge would tell the story of the time Truman gave him a list of ten books to read. It included books like Plutarch's Lives, Caesar's Commentaries, and Benjamin Franklin's Autobiography.

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