Daily decisions often focus on doing what is personally convenient rather than what is right, illustrated by actions like abrupt lane changes in traffic. The key is to consciously consider the impact of one's actions on others, reflecting on how the world would be if everyone followed the same behavior. This mindset shift prompts individuals to choose actions that benefit the collective good over personal ease, akin to Antoninus, the Roman emperor, who avoided inconveniencing others by limiting his travels. By pondering the ripple effect of their choices, individuals can cultivate a habit of making decisions that prioritize the common good and minimize unintended consequences.
A Note from James:
Today, we've got a returning guest, a fan favorite, and someone whose work has consistently left a mark on this podcast—Ryan Holiday. We've talked about many of his books, from "Trust Me, I'm Lying" to his series on stoicism, including "The Obstacle is the Way". His latest work, "Right Thing Right Now: Good Values, Good Character, Good Deeds", is part of his Stoic Virtue series and is packed with insightful stories and practical advice on how to live a virtuous life. Ryan always brings fascinating examples and compelling narratives that not only entertain but also offer deep, actionable insights. So, let's jump right into it with Ryan Holiday.
Episode Description:
In this episode, James Altucher sits down with Ryan Holiday, a prolific author and modern stoic philosopher, to discuss his latest book, "Right Thing Right Now". This book is a profound exploration of the virtues of good values, good character, and good deeds, and how these principles can be applied to everyday life to achieve peak performance and personal growth. Ryan shares powerful stories and historical examples that highlight the importance of doing the right thing, even when it's difficult. Listeners will gain unique perspectives on how to navigate challenges and make ethical decisions that benefit both themselves and society.
What You’ll Learn:
- The Real Benefits of Virtue: Discover how practicing good values and character can lead to a more fulfilling and successful life.
- Historical Lessons: Learn from historical figures who embodied stoic principles and made significant impacts on society.
- Practical Stoicism: Get actionable advice on how to incorporate stoic virtues into your daily routine.
- Overcoming Modern Challenges: Understand how ancient wisdom can be applied to solve contemporary problems and improve personal resilience.
Chapters:
- [01:30] – Introduction and Background on Ryan Holiday
- [03:15] – The Unique Dimensions of "Right Thing Right Now"
- [07:00] – The Evolution of Ryan’s Stoic Journey
- [14:26] – Thomas Clarkson and the Abolition of the Slave Trade
- [20:00] – Historical Parallels and Modern Applications
- [25:01] – The Importance of Community in Practicing Virtue
- [33:45] – Learning from Past Leaders: LBJ, Malcolm X, and More
- [45:13] – The Role of Storytelling in Spreading Wisdom
- [51:46] – Personal Reflections on Changing One’s Mind
- [01:03:00] – Concluding Thoughts and Future Projects
Additional Resources:
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