Don’t Be “Distracted by Their Darkness” | Marcus Aurelius on Success

What can Marcus Aurelius teach us about being successful?
Cuts, voice, footage, script by Einzelgänger. I also used Creative Commons (links below) licensed material from Storyblocks (links available upon request).
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I Think I Can Help You - The Ten Names
ELPHNT - Adrift
Doug Maxwell/Media Right Productions - Cantus Firmus Monks
Creative commons:
Epictetus: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epictet...
Hermes: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of...
Jesus: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jesus#/...
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Lao Tzu: commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Ca...
Greek hall: pixabay.com/nl/photos/kolomme...
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#stoicism #marcusaurelius #success

Check out Einzelgänger's book 'Stoicism for Inner Peace' here: einzelganger.co/innerpeace

[@sunlion8866]

''You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.'' - Marcus Aurelius

[@seyproductions]

1. Create your teachers. 2. Stop caring about them. 3. Do what is essential. 4. Change your perception. 5. Follow nature's way.

[@alanhowitzer]

Why number 2. Stop caring about them?

[@orangewarm1]

@@alanhowitzer stop caring what they think.

[@carlbowles1808]

Intuition is my ultimate trusted guide. I've lost relationships because I obeyed intuition. Intuition is never wrong it is God's app for our best good 🙏😇🌅.

[@kamogelomashabela2524]

Thank you

[@olliefoxx7165]

Either you didn't mean #2 as its stated or you meant stop caring for your teachers. You shouldn't stop caring for those that have been a positive influence. Even negative teachers have a place, not near the heart but as lessons learned. Very odd your # 2.

[@yowhattupitzbigchungus4971]

“ Choose not to be harmed “ love that!

[@james9277]

A lesson many need to learn today

[@live2raid]

I feel like this concept can only be used in certain situations if someone was to stab you clearly you would be physically harmed and just thinking this wouldn’t stop you from bleeding. Maybe might heal your recovery faster idk

[@yowhattupitzbigchungus4971]

Live2raid lmao well.....maybe choose not to be harmed when its in your power to do so. I scream like a little girl if i get so much as a paper cut.

[@russell1841]

@@live2raid He is talking about the mental aspect of harm here. Of course, you would be injured when stabbed. You could try to not get stabbed, but sometimes it is not possible. The idea is to defend yourself mentally even if you were to be stabbed. If you are in recovery, don't blame yourself and think about what you could have done instead. Accept that it is now outside of your control and focus on what you could do to improve your circumstances. "“Let the body avoid discomfort (if it can), and if it feels it, say so. But the soul is what feels fear and pain, and what conceives of them in the first place, and it suffers nothing. Because it will never conclude that it has.” Excerpt From: Marcus Aurelius. “Meditations”.

[@jimfaun7915]

It’s literally impossible to not be harmed.

[@uchicha666]

You can learn something from toxic people. For example, how not to behave.

[@cheeseburgerinparadise7124]

Marcus Aurelius is the main man!!

[@manufacturedreality8706]

Well said.

[@vernonhedge4530]

You could also admire their curious attractiveness.

[@4Mikes4Mindset4]

@@vernonhedge4530 dangerous

[@youdeservetobehappynow7584]

I don't get it.

[@Calidore1]

“Choose not to be harmed.“ that’s good. There is no need to be outraged or to hurt anybody.

[@jeziscricket4448]

Or you can turn the other cheek, walk away and never lay a hand on someone

[@sadokaguel1854]

Check Eckhart Tolle, He goes more in depth into that and It’s really helpful. Good luck!

[@kissarococo2459]

"not to trust schools but to hire private tutors" so wise, I worked in many public schools and the history teaching is so subpar I cannot tolerate being present there. Kids are just contained.

[@melaniechouette2445]

Kissa Rococo May I ask which country you are teaching in? I believe I’ve seen worse history text books--I’m from China😂

[@parrotshootist3004]

@@melaniechouette2445 UK here. Dunno about there, but there are those that say, what amounts to, that if weren't for lies, mistruths, half truths and misunderstandings our texts in schools might be entirely blank. I'm not sure any sincere investigation as to how true that is, would, be hope inducing.

[@LoveJaeger]

Parrotshootist why haven’t schools fought for the right for our children to learn the truth if they are aware of the lies being taught. I mean, how does a Teacher teach against his own knowledge learned from University as most teachers have to be a master in their field, have the teachers been taught this same false curriculum or are they taught the real truth. Or are some aware of the real truth and some not aware? I just think if you don’t fight for the children as a teacher, teaching poison to young minds, weather that he teachers refusing to abide along with head teachers, or fight for s change of law. But I guess the question is, what is THE TRUTH. Sorry for rambling I have many questions, I’m a curious human being, thank you.

[@David-eu1ms]

Public schools are indoctrination centers, not educational institutions.

[@osse1n]

What we think of life is a perception, a judgement. We need to become observers, not reactors.

[@nameisrango]

*Bold your comment*

[@DarkAngelEU]

Yeah, just observe and let politics take everything over. It's not like the end of the world is gonna happen lmao

[@osse1n]

@Admiral BLOODFIRE I salute you sir. Exactly how it is. Join me.

[@sandrajovic9304]

@@DarkAngelEU let the world end, I'm still laughing my ass off

[@damariuswingfield2144]

Fact

[@PandaRehab]

Thank you for sharing. I am in the process of removing "I don't care" from my experience to avoid apathetic perspective. I am replacing it with "I am not concerned". It has been good to me, especially in social interactions.

[@kissarococo2459]

I used to be angry at politics and world until I learned this almost buddhist monk-like detachment from it. Now I am better mentally and have energy for important things. It´s not that I don´t care but I have accepted I have non control over it and to just live as I want the world to be.

[@taniachara77]

Shiva I’m going to start using that🤗

[@manufacturedreality8706]

@@kissarococo2459 Same here! :)

[@caleb1031]

"I am not concerned with your paltry actions human" I can't get it to work. :(

[@angelaloveandstars]

I do pray by now you have achieved your goal in ridding your thoughts of any harmful perspective, I personally use “ I am untroubled ( by this thing I cannot control) “and it gives me much peace in my heart and soul! Have a wonderful day and blessings!😊💜🎀

[@Eternalised]

“A blazing fire makes flame and brightness out of everything that is thrown into it.”

[@michellepanelo3843]

SIMPLICITY IS BEAUTIFUL IN NATURE! INTELLIGENTLY EXECUTED OF ENLIGHTENMENT. MEDITATION 🧘‍♀️ AND FOCUS 🧘‍♀️ CAN FREE US FROM ENTRAPMENT . 🙏

[@dvdv8197]

I'm glad you started this channel, man. The hard part is recognizing the good advice and the people who mean well with you, from the malevolent people and those who wish your demise. Sometimes they're very well at hiding their true colors.

[@pinecone3870]

I appreciate this video and channel as well. It’s always reassuring to hear that what glitters isn’t always gold and just take your time , mannnn . You don’t have to chose to be a victim nor feel the pain , easier said than done but, you know. Also nice to hear that you don’t have to worry about weeding out those people who would love to watch you burn if you follow simple steps , one being listen to yourself before you consider everyone else’s babble.

[@josephantony8420]

I'm not very vocal on any particular KZbin channel but without a shadow of doubt , I'm grateful for this channel and we need more of this. ❤️

[@CryptoBellwether]

Always consider your source when getting advice..Never ask a poor man about investing..etc.

[@animelvr99]

But you can ask him how he is able to survive on so little

[@alexmonfis9305]

Love u man You have helped me a lot in my life

[@kevinsu5182]

iIf

[@katherinelydon7306]

Same here!

[@user-oi3yb7mm7h]

Blessings come from a generous heart. Those who give are the most blessed.

[@veganrican606]

This channel has helped me a lot, my days are filled with anxiety and stress, this channel has helped me understand some root causes.

[@derealratos6332]

me too. i feel my anxiety leave listening to these teachings

[@mrmonk90]

Cognitive therapy actually cured me from depression...It was all in my perception of the world. Change your thoughts and you will change your mood.

[@Katyperryspenis]

I had the same experience, i tell people that and they just say thanks im cured lol if only they could HEAR me.

[@LetsTalkPhilosophy]

As a creator I appreciate your words. Stoicism has helped me take from others valuable lessons; however at the same time not letting the malevolent individuals impede my progress.

[@LetsTalkPhilosophy]

@Time to Reason I hope your new path brings you happiness my friend!

[@sidshinde9907]

This is like learning skills from different people and creating an OP player character in video games

[@LAST-KNIGHTS-888]

"Choose not to be harmed " for me easier said than done🤷🏻‍♂️. I really admire people I know getting offended by others (narcissists😈)and not Do or Say anything afterward.

[@AgeofMachines]

This is some valuable info. Lot of stress comes from looking at events catastrophically.. Amplifies pain 1000 fold.

[@maerree3664]

When I feel like I need to escape my anxiety and chaos within myself. I found this channel. So much love and food for thought and soul all the time. Keep blessing others ❤️🙏 Stay safe.

[@yahnoa]

Einzelgänger, I say from my whole being that you've truly helped me. Shared profound philosophies with me and helped me to refresh my perspective. I appreciate you thank you for doing what you do, everytime a new video from you appears I get excited. Much Aloha

[@caribbeanqueen1389]

I love this channel. I listen to your words of wisdom before I meditate every morning. It helps gives me clarity and work out some complex stuff in my life. Keep doing what you do. You're helping people all over the world. I'm from Trinidad and Tobago in the Caribbean.

[@Alex-pq1sj]

I can imagine just how sturdy Marcus Aurelius stood in the face of ultimate hardship. I can only admire him more

[@beatsonfire4998]

Always something so profound about these videos. Thank you for everything you do for your viewers.

[@marianovallejos9861]

Oohhh maaan, i just found that "meditations" in my school's library and i read it, you aport me a lot of tranquility and now i feel my trail

[@rhettvaughan1937]

Aport? Qué formal :)

[@drhmufti]

Unconditional positive regard.

[@nightrider6136]

Thank you for making this video! I learn a lot. Your calm, rational and educated manner of presenting complex philosophical issues comes as a favourite break during the day.

[@tracywilliamsliterature]

It is a good thing that you did not heed the skeptics about your channel... because your channel is wonderful! This video really helped me today, when I needed to hear what was said at a crucial moment... thank you!

[@Lion.555]

Your voice has a healing power! ❤

[@verav3420]

I am very grateful for you for this channel! One of the most difficult times of my life became a turning point, and i used this calamity as an improvement.

[@loganlaj]

Human beings are more similar than they are different!

[@GamerSix66]

Glad you decided to go through with your plans. Your videos are very informative and I'm sure you've helped saved some peoples sanity

[@Liz-pc3dc]

In French, there's a saying (I try to translate) ''those who gives you an advice aren't those who will pay''. So when I'm asked for an advice, I always start with that and explain it's only my opinion, with my personality and knowledge. And I always try to remember that when I'm given an advice too. It works both ways.

[@philmessina476]

As a teen and in my early 20s, I was most drawn to existentialism, especially Nietzsche. Then, I was drawn most to Buddhism, particularly the teachings of Zen Master Thich Nhat Hahn at Plum Village Monastery. Now, in my 40s, I find the teachings of Marcus Aurelius most relevant---Meditations---as well as that of other Stoics. Keep up the good work, Einzelgänger. I've seen some of your videos before; but now I'm subscribing. Cheers.

[@Comuzzy]

Im 18 and I've created a combination between Nietszche and Stoicism that's leading my life to, at least, personal success.

[@AbdulSamad-dz4vw]

I'm 17, will be writing my own philosophy soon but before that I must live that and test it against circumstances.. let's see how far I will go

[@AbdulSamad-dz4vw]

@KILLERZEN noice

[@sfyn3496]

@@Comuzzy Can you explain your version please.

[@Comuzzy]

@@sfyn3496 that was two years ago, sadly I don’t remember what I did really. I ended up following Christ again, it’s the easiest way for a fulfilling and happy life. I do remember I used to meditate, nofap, and a few things more. My routine consisted on exercising in the early morning (light work, in my room before high school), going to the gym and avoiding social media. I don’t remember much because my grandma, who I lived with and raised me and taught me values, died at the end of that year. Sorry I couldn’t help, but I’m pretty sure if you read two or three Nietzsche books and get into stoic philosophy you’ll end up reaching the same conclusions as I did.

[@RenegadeFem]

Ive recommened your channel to so many people, and it calms my soul 🌻. You are a blessing in my life, thank you.

[@ngacong4384]

This is one of the great channel for self-development. I'm very grateful for having it in my life. May God bless you!

[@luvmichellele]

So glad you didn't let the skeptics get to you, these videos are incredibly helpful to me whenever I need them. Thank you so much for your insightful videos!

[@kinngrimm]

I read Aurelius "Introspections" and acknowledge a lot of the wisdom presented in there. Not all can be taken 1:1 into modern times with lots of knew knowledge, but there are gems to be found.

[@jonneee11]

Thank you Einzelgänger. This really helped me a lot during my first day back from the Christmas break in school. I was really full of fear and anxiety and because of that, I kept self-depricating myself. Therefore, leading me to be absent minded and zone out. But then suddenly I asked myself the same question from the video, "is this necessary?" And then I finally removed the mindset and continued what I was meant to do for school. Thanks again Einzelgänger!

[@cornelbacauanu1544]

Do what is important and matters. This is the philosophy.

[@middleofnowhere1313]

Toxic ppl teach you what not to do.

[@mcorleone77]

Chinese adage - "There must be at least one teacher in a group of three people."

[@countchaca2158]

Sam Gria “三人行必我有师”

[@mcorleone77]

@@countchaca2158 yea, there's always something you can learn from the people around you , 驕兵必敗

[@rickjohnson9191]

See one, do one, teach one. ~ African Proverb

[@peterballauthor]

Great. Clear and concise. a great philosophy for our own times too.

[@marisfenix]

I am so happy you follow your vision and share it with us !

[@christopherwood3793]

Maaan Marcus Aurelious was some character. No wonder his name and writings are still used today

[@sandrajovic9304]

Thank you Mr. Einzelgänger for your inspiring classes. (Teachers seem to be the theme of the day for me) All my best teachers weren't from (a) school. The school of life, where would I be without those teachers,, and some play a small part of my life but helped my recovery big. Every person I've ever met taught me something. I'm better for all of it. And very grateful♥

[@johnmantikas]

Einzelgänger, thank you very much for another fantastic video. I loved your book and I appreciate your contributions to my life immensely. Going through difficult times but your videos are a steady reminder of how I should handle it all. It’s benefitted me a lot. Keep doing great work.

[@Drenoxian]

powerful, well-written and, immensely important words that many around the world should listen to

[@vibes3626]

Exactly

[@theonethatprotectsyoufromt9271]

thanks for the videos man, Marcus Aurelius is truly badass

[@JorgeRodriguez-kn4gw]

Just got your ebook. Your channel is helping improve and reflect every day. Getting into a stoic mindset takes time, but I will get there.

Thank you very much for purchasing my book :) And for the compliment!

[@ash8207]

Very inspiring & sincere advice! This is a healthy & positive way to look at success. In today's modern society, we are all bombarded by the toxic consumerist propaganda that tries to condition us to think that "success" is about how much $ we make, what fancy car we drive, what big house we buy, what fancy title we acquired, what expensive clothes we wear, what shiny jewelry we wear, what great job we got, etc. All of it being shallow, unnecessary & superficial, in the grand scheme of things. All the while ignoring or downplaying all the wonderful, hard-working people, the ones that are truly successful in making their families, communities & the world a better place. As a US Army veteran, I know from personal experience that true success comes not in the form of wealth or fancy titles, but from the selfless service & sacrifice you make for your brothers-in-arms. I remember how my parents were strongly opposed to my enlistment as well. I know their concerns were genuinely well-meaning, but I'm glad I didn't heed their advice & chose my own path. I would have missed out on many incredible experiences & things that benefited my life & the life of others. Everytime someone doubts me or tries to tell me what I can't do, it only fires me up & motivates me to continue with my plan of action. What could be more stoic than that?

[@maximelagace]

Love this: 6:56: "Develop a neutrality towards to thing we perceive as undesirable." Makes me think to Marcus Aurelius "The first step: Don’t be anxious. Nature controls it all."

[@edp5226]

you took my thoughts and put them into words. thanks for.

[@isaaccabuto6685]

when i feel conflicted or distraught i come to this channel, thank you for giving peace of mind. cheers m8

[@camronmayon8122]

We are a circle within a circle with no begining and no ending

[@TGREAT1]

3:25 this is so important for high value men to know I went through this avoid their sight or view too! Be careful with what you share and whom you share it with

[@oscarrosado6440]

Wonder why we can’t have more content like this on youtube 😦

[@thisisaname1013]

@Nick Taylor what do you mean with "the library"?:) Would love to look into it online?

[@quasimobius]

It is lovely content.

[@TheSololobo]

Because believe it or not we are other interests, its not like this is the only video of its kind on youtube.

[@provokingtruth7117]

Alan Watts

[@Curiousnessify]

open ur eyes they're everywhere

[@GrowthMindsetProductions]

This is one of my greatest impacts from studying stoicism: *Do* *what* *makes* *you* *happy* - *Life* *is* *too* *short* *to* *not* *enjoy* *it* =)

[@charlieamabile1360]

It's hard 2 believe that anyone back then lived long enough to see their great grandchildren

[@johntaylor8463]

The unimaginably wealthy have always lived well and long. It's not like he was desperately scrounging for food like all the people he ruled over.

[@SCHMALLZZZ]

Many people lived long long lives back then. Most people died as infants or young children so the average lifespan is skewed and makes it seem like people didn't grow old back then. Which is ridiculous.

[@musicalintentions]

These videos are greatly appreciated. Thank you for your work.

[@tayodeniro6669]

I start my day off with this every morning...

[@DonnaSnyder]

I needed this so much tonight. Thank you for the comfort you bring me, as well as the wisdom.

[@yahyaimperial]

Thank you for the powerful video!

[@oneilone7921]

Brilliant Video

[@joisea9509]

Well said, well put together. Amazing! Thank you.

[@jenuinejoneszenproductions8355]

This came to me when I needed it most. Thank you.

[@davidsaarelajr.5986]

Your videos are some of the best on KZbin in regards to this subject matter. Thank you!

[@DaveTheRonin]

These videos have been a tremendous help for me lately. Thank you 🙏🏾

[@queerchoreography54]

Thank you, I appreciate your work and help.

[@jameswhite937]

Thank you. Well done !

[@ayisha782]

don’t know what I’d do without your channel, thank you so much.

[@bennevis3275]

One of the best channels on KZbin. Thank you for what you do 👍

[@pufelmulticolorido]

Thank you! You have been changing my life, sir!

[@vincentleeadams]

Greetings from Austin Texas! Thank you for following your hearts desire, it has benefited both you and me.😊

[@Balancinglife]

I choose the qualities from people I meet. Then I obtain them.

[@jondecarbonel8158]

The qualities or the people? 😎 some collect "people"

[@ishax7597]

Always enjoy your uploads. Keep up the wonderful work!

[@hillogf]

what a beautiful narration. Thanks for the content and sharing your insights with us!

[@cat_purrs_in_graphite]

Thank you! Great video for starting the new decade

[@devshah1751]

So amazing video sir, thank you very much and please keep posting!!

[@missinformed4269]

Given here the pith instruction. Nothing superfluous. Inspiring. Thank you.

[@poojamitra3990]

Thank you… your content gives me a lot of hope and confidence

[@dxdx5638]

Thank you for your work.

[@ashleyboolell5784]

This might well be the most important video of your channel. The message is very clear and eminently applicable to various situations in life. Keep up the great work.

[@oliverclark8319]

I watch so many of your views of the world...thank you for the constant inspiration!

[@armanhadi777]

Thank God you overcame the resistance of advice, your channel is one of the best content on KZbin.

[@DrFlankinstien]

Excellent!!! As always. I really enjoy your videos. Look forward to the next one.

[@anishthomas13]

Thank you for going on your own path and listening to yourself to know what's best for you

[@lovealways2609]

You have chosen a nice path. Touching others with real wisdom and your unique angle of sharing. Thank you. Shalom.

[@yagoPK2]

Amazing! thank you for share

[@conradjane8659]

A Beautiful video. I just wrote tomorrow’s task list. Thank you for the reminder.

[@MrNoufa10]

That is the best video of the channel, for me (from my perspective, lol). I loved it so much. We really need that kind of wisdom in our daily life, in a world full of noise, distraction, lack of clarity, and doubts..

[@yrhghnss1934]

Bro your channel is the truth. I devour your videos with great attention. Respect to you💪🏾

[@djalexander2545]

You're doing great work on here bro! I just finished your book and I must say it has helped me a lot. Thank you

[@nicositio54]

With each video I watch, I like your channel more and more. Kudos!

[@maxamedsanweyne2599]

This is fulll mediation and advice liked your videos. Thank you so much

[@nikiv116893]

What a great video to start the year off!

[@Roz390]

Fantastic as always. Great work!!

[@EliEli-xf5vz]

Thank you! words fall short to express how amazing this insightful video is! This is what happens when determination meets personal experience and wisdom! All benefit :), pain and confusion are lessened