The Stoic Handbook by Jon Brooks

The Paradox of The Dichotomy of Control and the Trap of Feeling Good

Jun 16, 2023

Explore the challenges of practicing the dichotomy of control in the face of uncertainty and external events. Learn how to manage stress and anxiety through cognitive behavioral therapy. Discover how the dichotomy of control applies to uncertain situations and the importance of differentiating between what is within one's control and what is not. Delve into the concept of personal agency and the paradox of needing the dichotomy of control to work.

09:19

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Quick takeaways

Understanding the dichotomy of control requires embodying and practicing it in daily life, not just cognitive understanding.

Practicing the dichotomy of control on multiple levels (events, emotions, and judgments) deepens its effectiveness.

Deep dives

The principle of no-self and the dichotomy of control

The podcast explores the idea that understanding concepts like the dichotomy of control or the principle of no-self is not enough to experience emotional relief or freedom from suffering. The speaker emphasizes that the cognitive understanding of these principles should be embodied and practiced in daily life. They give the example of the self as a fluctuation of energy and experience, similar to how a watch is made up of different components. While we can intellectually grasp these concepts, actually living them requires ongoing work and practice.

Introduction

2min

Challenges of Practicing the Dichotomy of Control in the Face of Uncertainty

2min

The Dichotomy of Control and its Application to Stress and Negative Emotions

3min

The Paradox of The Dichotomy of Control and the Trap of Feeling Good

2min

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"The more we value things outside our control, the less control we have."
— Epictetus

In today's episode, we delve into the practice of the dichotomy of control, a fundamental principle in Stoic philosophy.

While many people intellectually understand the concept of differentiating between things within their control and things outside their control, they often struggle to find genuine emotional relief. I explore the paradoxical nature of the dichotomy of control and provide insights on how to deepen the practice for maximum benefit.

In today's episode, we cover:

The Dichotomy of Control: Understanding what we can and can't control.
Multi-Level Application: Applying the concept across events, emotions, and judgments.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Using CBT as a tool for Stoic practice.
Accepting Emotional States: Embracing emotions, even if unwanted.
Overcoming Self-Criticism: Letting go of self-judgment in Stoic practice.
The Paradox of Control: Finding true effectiveness by relinquishing the need for control.

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