Practical Stoicism

Good morning, Prokoptôn. In today's episode, I'm responding to a question from a Spotify listener named Blarka. The question is about how to think of or celebrate a birthday that coincides with the death of a brother or sister.This is a thoughtful question with a sad context, but it's an important topic. While Stoicism views death as an indifferent in terms of developing Virtue, it acknowledges the emotional impact it has on us. It's essential to remember that Stoics are allowed to have emotions.First, I discuss the Stoic perspective on death. For Stoics, death doesn't signify the end of everything. Instead, it's part of a continuous cycle of endings and beginnings. The "spark of divine reason" within us doesn't cease to exist when our bodies expire.Next, I address the specific issue of feeling conflicted when trying to celebrate on a day also marked by loss. It's natural to feel this way, but it's crucial to examine what our actions on these days say about our character. Celebrating and mourning simultaneously doesn't inherently make either action inappropriate. The appropriateness of our behavior depends on the logic and reasoning behind it.In conclusion, I suggest finding a balanced approach to marking the day of a great loss. This might involve spending time remembering the lost loved one and then allowing yourself to celebrate with friends and family. The key is to ensure that your actions align with reasoned and virtuous thinking.Thank you for listening, and I hope this discussion provides some intellectual value and practical guidance.--Become a Patron : https://stoicismpod.com/membersDownload the daily app : https://stoicism260.comSubscribe to the Newsletter : https://practicalstoicism.netEnroll in the course : https://understandingstoicism.comOrder my book : https://stoicismpod.com/bookJoin the Society of Stoics : https://societyofstoics.org Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Delving into the aspirational nature of the Stoic Sage, the podcast explores the motivation behind striving for personal perfection despite its impossibility. Drawing parallels to excellence in various fields, it emphasizes the value of continuous improvement over unattainable perfection. The episode challenges the notion that the unattainable nature of sagehood undermines the value of Stoicism, highlighting the importance of embracing the journey towards virtue and self-improvement.

The podcast discusses the Stoic approach to career selection, emphasizing assessment of roles, ethical considerations, and personal motivations. Practical advice is given on salary negotiation, benefits evaluation, and company research. The importance of fulfilling duties in service to broader concerns and integrating Stoic principles into the job search process is highlighted.

Personal Announcement and Podcast Update Following Paternity Leave: Speaker announces son's birth and podcast hiatus. Teases potential changes, expresses gratitude to listeners. Take care until May 6th, Prokoptôn!

Anya Leonard, creator of Classical Wisdom and Classical Wisdom for kids, discusses the naturalistic approach of the First Philosophers, Pythagoras's beliefs on numerology and communal living, and the contributions of ancient philosophers like Heraclitus and Democritus in shaping modern thinking.

Topics discussed include embracing self-approval, prioritizing self-approval over external validation in Stoic philosophy, embracing self-improvement and personal choices, and reframing beauty with a focus on inner qualities over appearance.

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.

Who is the current Roman Emperor? Okay, so the Roman Empire no longer exists -- but if it did, who would have rightful claim to the throne? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Delve into forming good habits and breaking bad ones with insights from Stoic philosophers. Learn to distinguish between control and influence, reshape behavior, and cultivate virtuous habits. Explore the power of conscious choices, personal connections, and tactile reminders in transforming ingrained behaviors towards self-discipline.

In this enlightening episode of "Practical Stoicism," I delve into the profound realization that the search for purpose and meaning in life becomes increasingly urgent as we age. I explore the journey from the invincibility felt in youth to the mature quest for fulfillment, highlighting the importance of discovering a purpose that transcends the expectations of others. Drawing on the wisdom of Stoic philosophy and the teachings of Epictetus and Agrippinus, I've come to understand that true purpose is a deeply personal voyage towards enlightenment, free from the constraints of conformity and rebellion. Join me as I navigate the path to uncovering our individual essence through the lens of Stoicism, offering insights into how to lead a life marked by virtue and excellence.--Become a Patron: https://stoicismpod.com/membersSubscribe to the weekly newsletter: https://practicalstoicism.net/subscribePre-order my book: https://stoicismpod.com/bookDownload Stoicism260: https://stoicismpod.com/appPodcast Artwork by Randy Johnson: https://originalrandy.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices