Why Stoicism Matters

[@theschooloflifetv]

Thank you for watching. Join the conversation below or we have a discussion going on right now on our app available free here: goo.gl/2juQTR

[@Vivi-xq1gg]

The School of Life Make it available in India

[@knv1979]

Thanks for this video. I've always questioned why people try to convince others to not commit suicide. The "it gets better" narrative is so detrimental to someone who has been constantly suffering, and has had enough to end it all. A person doesn't wake up one day and say "oh... I have a hangnail so I'm going to off myself today". I'm so glad to hear your POV from the video and down in the comments. None of my peers IRL agree. It makes me feel like my critical thinking is not all that foreign.

[@lights473]

The School of Life - make it available for Android.

[@lights473]

knv1979 - it's only foreign to those incapable of critical thinking themselves.

[@aljpelayo2120]

Awesome. Simple and we'll explained

[@reybladen3068]

"The literal meaning of life is whatever that prevents you from killing yourself." -Albert Camus

[@lovepeaceisneverguaranteed7385]

Aka money

[@AJ-nd4nk]

AKA Pussy

[@ajsjdhdh1170]

So the fear of feeling physical pain is life?

[@professionalribokuapologis6340]

aka we gotta keep this going or fake talker will kill themselves

[@scottsterling8378]

AKA this video

[@N0rt3x]

I began to study stoicism 1 year ago. I'm an anxious guy, always overthinking things, it has done wonders for me. Seneca helped me alot, but the one I owe it to is Marcus Aurelius, whose writings helped me decatastrophize situations and learn to care about what is in my reach and nothing else. I'm far from mastering it, but it has helped alot til now.

[@hugmonger]

I've not read or heard much by Marcus, but what I hear from Seneca always helps when I am feeling down. A reminder that life sucks, and will always suck is refreshing compared to this overly happy world we live in.

[@ZeriocTheTank]

N0rt3x I'm the same as you my friend. I started looking into Stoicism over a year ago myself & helped me out as well. I'm not the ideal stoic, but I try to remember the ideals of one & to strive for it each day.

[@matthew_thefallen]

I am starting to practice some of the thoughts and it is really mind blowing! I always thought many of the ideas that Seneca or Marcus Aurelius though, but never really embraced them.

[@romanfonseca7309]

Decatastrophize situations

[@StratosFear1992]

Having struggled with anxiety for a long time, I’ve found mindfulness to be also extremely practical. While Stoicism helps me to shift my perspective, mindfulness exercises help me to actively put it into practice by facing my anxious thoughts head on until I realise how inconsequential they are. Do try it out. There’s a wonderful app called Headspace that I found really useful. Cheers, and good luck.

[@zakarianadir4938]

Stoicism makes sense in so far as you come to realize that facing a trouble is itself fulfilling. It makes you handle it calmly because you know you're offered an opportunity to grow.

[@carrot92]

I’ve followed the lessons of stoicism for about a year now and it’s helped me overcome depression and build a stronger, healthier body. There is no perfect philosophy of life but it is far better to adopt one than to go on aimlessly.

[@Concatenate]

Awesome, I love seeing these types of success stories. I want to spread Stoic wisdom as much as possible to the people around me in the hopes they have a similar experience.

[@cinderelly00]

@@Concatenate me too, starting with myself.

[@CygnusViol]

I had depression in the past (I'm ok now). I've just read Marcus Aurelius meditations and I can see so many of the helpful things my psychiatrist had said in this book. Yes, it's not perfect, but those points did help me back then, and still do.

[@Whimsy3692]

This is actually my mindset about everything. The trick is to know what to do when those things do go wrong. That's why I rarely worry.

[@ramanman9792]

What should you do if a big day is coming and you are worried

[@JohnDoe-bt4ps]

@@ramanman9792 Take whatever you worry about to the most extreme and accept that it is a possibility and you will survive it.

[@addidas3167]

What about people who have severe anxity?

[@ramanman9792]

AddiDAS I’m not a professional or anything so don’t take my advice but just consider it. You can do things such as practicing diaphramic breathing or blowing on your thumb when nervous. Those two things really help.

[@drewdee7420]

@@ramanman9792 thumb blowing does sound quite childish

[@samuelshin4746]

I think you undermine Stoicism by ignoring a Stoic's greatest goal. A life of virtue. Stoics seek the ultimate hapiness through virtue and not simply a defense mechanism. You may deal with the world and ignore negative emotions but without virtue, hapiness will not come.

[@jilliansmith7123]

Sangwoo Shin: I don't know...I am virtue-free and am quite happy.

[@lights473]

Jillian Smith - then you're wrong. You're happy because you're taking virtuous actions. Do you know what virtue ethics is?

[@AceAsh7]

Sangwoo Shin exactly what i think too

[@cannancursed820]

Sangwoo Shin not if your virtue is gained by virtue signaling on a comment section though... like some of these baffoons... not you though you're good. and quite correct

[@sunilrampuria7906]

The problem with virtue lies on the basis of it's use. One may say that living life understanding that the worst is endurable is itself a virtue.

[@noelsphinx3968]

Stoicism saved my life.

[@kushaanchoksi2095]

NoelSphinx I'd love to know how

[@tavsultra9458]

I also wish to know

[@haydengreenwood508]

Same. Severe depression - Sertraline didn't help, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy helped a little but Stoicism stopped me killing myself. Taught me how to control my emotions by changing the way i look at the world. The biggest and best thing i took from Stoicism is that nothing is inherently good or bad, there is only good and bad in my reaction to it. Once you realise this, you realise that feeling down is a choice.

[@TheChurchHistoryChannel]

Me too. That and Jordan Peterson. It's like applied knowledge. So many books tell you about studies. Peterson, the Bible and the old philosophers tell you how to live. Right or wrong they plant the facts of human nature firmly in the here and now and tell you to do something about it. That's what I'm beginning to see what wisdom literature is and the difference between mere facts about human nature.

[@roberthardy5171]

Jimminy Cricket "feeling down is a choice". One of the myths about depression people who've never experienced it hold.

[@NeroLightningLynx777]

This is all perfect. This is what I told a suicidal friend. He's still alive. It's absurd how many people are arguing against this. Choosing death is a human right.

[@yuushi_jin]

It's weird, but hearing an argument in favor of suicide actually makes me feel better. I don't intend to kill myself, but I've dealt with depression and suicidal thoughts for two decades. Everyone always says it gets better so I stuck it out expecting that my life would eventually improve. After 20 years I can comfortably say it doesn't always get better and oftentimes it gets worse.

[@Concatenate]

I strongly recommend you pick up a copy of The Daily Stoic. It will help you balance the the ups and downs. It has helped me significantly. Peace.

[@vsssa1845]

I know right. I felt the same way :-)

[@VixXstazosJOB]

Same.... but to be fair - and this may sound rude - you may also be part fo the problem, so try analizing that for your sake and the sake of your happiness, also you were more likely victim of the Common Cliche Advise - the exact reason why i don't talk with my loving family as they're inmersed in a culture that would clash with my problem, so they will just DRAG ME BACK -, try harder going to a Pshycologist as it's being proved that chemicals in the brain - they will give you medicine - are objetively part of your Emotional State - so yeah...

[@vincaso]

@@VixXstazosJOB you recommend psychiatrists?

[@Cyrus_II]

I've always thought so as well. Somehow when you tell people that they can always kill themselves has the opposite effect that you would expect it to have. Knowing that you're not trapped here and you're truly free is strangely comforting and makes it more likely that you stay and endure in difficult circumstances. Epictetus who is another Stoic philosopher, spoke of this very phenomenon.

[@Mienarrr]

As another person here who‘s struggled with depression anxiety and suicidal thoughts for a long time, this outlook helped me greatly. Not under the name of philosophy or stoicism. I didn‘t know what that was until now, honestly. But I realized that whenever I was vehemently denying what was happening or what my situation was. (Being bullied, being scared, feeling humiliated) or when I tried to tell myself it will all get better, I got into this passive state of mind that dragged me down into my darkest moments. The nights where I truly wanted to end it, because what I clung to was this mindset of let it get better by itself or i‘m going to end it. Let them be nice to me or i won‘t put up with this anymore. Never did it occur to me to actually change my situation, get active, cut off unhealthy people from my life, change myself and my surroundings to what I want it to be like. And also not look away once I realize something isn‘t working. It‘s a more realistic approach to life than constantly hoping for the best, it will truly make you a nervous wreck like I was. Maybe that can help some others on here as well. I honestly wish it did. 🐯

[@ziggy8253]

Stoicism is the only way to exist in this world. We have no control over politics, misfortune, health, death, and the fate of the universe. We are never on the driver’s seat. So, just sit back.

[@dcad6934]

So we should just let the politicians do as they will? because we cannot control politics? and those who can influence politics with money to their own personal gain should be left alone? Stoicism is not passivity as you described it, but rather how to self regulate your emotions by recognizing internal and external forces. We can influence many of external things, such as health and politics with our actions. Our actions is what is under our control, and how we use them is what matters.

[@-funmemes-9759]

Well great but its all Down to our Consioness this world does not exists without our understanding of it to be honest with u man

[@-funmemes-9759]

@@dcad6934 who are u

[@VixXstazosJOB]

but then again lol... say that to Presidents, Governors, BusinessMen, Doctors, Researchers who got to clean clear Objectivity in discoveries or products in life - the very same Screen Protector possibly in your monitor for the HEALTH of your eyes, Medicine -... only thing you're certain about is Death and the Fate of The Universe that are GOD Tier matters - as in not even he could do something unless he likes chaos... so much less us - Sorry but Lazy reasoning Paul sir

[@robt3407]

dc ad true that, it also has to be remembered that Seneca and Aurelius were also NOT poor working class men.

[@dudanunesbleff]

Allow me to quote Epictetus: “Freedom is the only worthy goal in life. It is won by disregarding things that lie beyond our control.” And then be virtuous for Logos' sake. Stoicism is the only ethic!

[@VixXstazosJOB]

Except that the Problem is that, we live in a time now in which Things Beyond Your Control simply either come to you or you can't just escape that easily - other people's souls irl that often clash, which makes it kinda hard to make friends and socialize in jobs or family regardless of personal formation.... You, The Internet as a passtime, Words and Peoples Oppinions which are difficult to adapt to or shake... -

[@hugmonger]

Thank you so much Alain. I actually really needed this right now. Recently unemployed and may soon become homeless. Its been a horrible source of agony and anxiety for me, but then I see this and am reminded that I can probably survive homelessness, and that its not that bad.

[@prataps2341]

Hey buddy, don't get disheartened. Just keep trying. You will definitely get a job and Everything Will be fine. Lots of love and good wishes!

[@hugmonger]

I find this level of cheerfulness gauling as it is genuinely unhelpful unless you are offering to pay me. I apologize for being so.... I dont know what the words is, maybe just blunt, but optimism and hope are really quite cruel to someone in a bad situation.

[@natashamudford4011]

Mr No Buddies Offering to pay you? Rumor has it that many homeless holding signs on the street corners ("will work for food," etc.) actually make a very comfy living doing just that. But it might be a false rumor. I used to tell people that they needed to make sure they were right with God, because one never knows when an airplane might crash into the building one is in. Then 9/11 happened, which kinda proved my point.

[@AR-dr1sb]

Start researching how to survive and overcome being homeless or become a nomad, nomadic lifestyle is better cuz u can say 2 ure friends u travelling and they should be jealous hehe

[@horstsachband6531]

Its really nice to see that school of life provides a source for exacly those cases. I wish you the best and I hope you keep on fighting

[@SH-hl3ce]

Stoicism like other Greco-Roman schools is primarily about how to live a good life, and the good life is a life of happiness (eudamonia). The Stoics reason that if we stake our happiness on fleeting things that are ultimately out of our control (health, riches, longevity, and what others may think of us) we will always be frustrated by nature's comings and goings. Therefore our happiness can only come from what is in our own control: to be satisfied with one's own action. I am satisfied with my actions only when i act in a way that is proper and desirable (i.e. virtuous). The Stoics 4 cardinal virtues are: Wisdom (acting to the best of our knowledge and critical thinking) Courage (dont be a coward) Justice (treat all souls kindly and fairly. If others do wrong and think ill, that's their problem, but i myself will not be found doing anything despicable) Temperance (self control and detachment) The Stoic abandons anxious consideration of the past and the future and others opinions. If something seems good and just and true after your most consideration, then do it, mo matter what others think. To live fully in the present moment, master of your own action, practicing wisdom, courage justice and self-control. That's virtuous living, thats the stoic path. Read the 'Meditations' by Marcus Aurelius.

[@TeKeyaKrystal]

I can work closer towards this

[@mightquinnable]

S H very interesting

[@VictorLepanto]

Instead of sending his sick friend a "Get well soon" card, he sends him a "Maybe you'll get better, maybe you'll die; so think about dying card" card

[@mjj7781]

Just send a book about stoicism

Just be honest We are going to die

[@maryanne5077]

@ And we have considerable choice in the matter, until we are dead.

[@philbertchow5425]

Couldn’t he have just sent weed?

[@VictorLepanto]

@@philbertchow5425 NO! That's not Stoic, that's Epicurean. The Epicureans thought life was only about pleasure. There motto was, "Eat, Drink & be Merry For Tomorrow We Die." Stoicism isn't about escaping the unpleasantness of life but looking at it squarely accepting it soberly. The Stoics thougt that it's okay if you're miserable so long as you're honest about it.

[@PracticalInspiration]

I started writing this in reply to one comment and then realised there's so many that are similar, so thought I'd share it generally. I really hope people reconsider the possibility of suicide... The video discusses a philosophical idea, but be careful in your interpretation of what's said. It doesn't simply accept suicide as an answer to escape or out of fear, but rather to accept death as a facet of life itself. The message is that you need to live life without fearing death and with a view of making the most of your life. For those considering suicide, understand that the world gains nothing from losing you, we all simply lose. The probability of you being born is so low that it's a miracle you're here to begin with and so as the video says live life and act towards satisfaction and value before accepting death. This is my interpretation of the point made. I focus heavily on this on my channel, as I know in my experience how challenging things can get. However, I also believe that as long as I live, I can exact change for the better and so it's my duty to live, not for myself, but for others and will only accept death at the point when I have nothing left to offer, until that point, I don't concern myself with it, as I would rather focus on life.

[@shizzle1903]

Practical Inspiration Great comment

[@Hashemechad]

Up to this point I agreed with you but not with: ..."will only accept death at the point when I have nothing left to offer"... you have no idea at which point you "have nothing left to offer"; you may be bed bound, incontinent, unable to see, hear, communicate, yet offer others great service by the test your life presents to you & them.Your life is truly not your own but a challenge/chore you & humanity are presented with. Your task is to serve the creator & perform your work to the best of your ability & understanding. As our Jewish sages said: "Know that everything is according to a reckoning: Let not your heart convince you that the grave is an escape for you; for against your will you are formed, against your will you are born, against your will you live, against your will you die, and against your will you are destined to give a judgenent and accounting before the king of kings, the Holy One blessed be He."

[@maryanne5077]

What I didn't like in the video was that it seemed a judgement was made about how one dies, and with that I disagree. Perhaps as toward grief, judgment does not belong there. We do have a choice and best not to pretend otherwise. It matters that we choose well and to live well, and also to realize we need our friends. The philosophy of stoicism seems to have come out of an exchange, out of conversation, out of relationships and in response to experience. I don't think it deserves to be reduced to the common idea of it as pulling up your own boot straps. Strength and courage are many layered. We can also befriend a conversation with suicide, in order to learn and be informed by something that wishes for death. That may lead to a better outcome than to ignore it or reject it.

[@boddurahulroy6888]

👍

[@Raygo.]

I wonder if suicide was easier for ancient Romans than it is for us. Life was tougher then right? Just to survive infancy and early childhood meant being pretty hardy. And folks were I guess generally much more familiar with death than most moderns, in the western world at least. I guess I'm trying to say I get Seneca, and I like the idea of stoicism, it seems like a reasonable response to the awfulness of life. But I can't get that suicide is always there waiting when the going gets too much to bear. I think most people rightly fear the suffering it would bring, not just to themselves, but to others left behind.

[@williamgrand9724]

They definitely had more reasons to commit suicide back then. I still think that a wise man should chose his fate. That sentiment alone doesn't make me want to just commit suicide because I feel a little down, but it makes life feel like less of a trap and generally more pleasant.

[@Xellos357]

I can guarantee you that people who commit suicide do not think of the others that they leave behind a great deal. I mean, they may have a thought of them, but clearly those people that they're leaving behind aren't that important to them at that time, otherwise they wouldn't be leaving this world.

[@Raygo.]

@@Xellos357 I'm not so sure, although I agree that does seem like a reasonable assumption. I have counselled people who have told me they were so miserable that life was simply a torture to them, something they longed to end, but what stopped them most of all was the thought of the pain they would leave others with, especially their children. One person even told me he hated the thought of the trouble he would cause to whoever had to "clean up afterwards".

[@Xellos357]

@@Raygo. oh right. I was commenting regarding the people who had fully committed to it. Though I could be entirely wrong, that is the assumption that I would make.

[@paloma4444]

@@Xellos357 Most people who commit suicide feel like a burden to their loved ones and that is part of why they do it. So it is not a wholy selflish thing. I know if I ever kill myself it will partly be because I feel like I am burdening those arround me

[@gdrummer494]

Honestly Stoicism was never meant to be mastered, just practiced daily. I apologize for interrupting.

[@Undesignedd]

I love you

[@mariewilliams194]

We all die it doesn't even matter what happens in the end. Be nice and humble. Be the best person you can be

[@nh4ci295]

In times of trouble approaching I always told myself "If I'm still breathing, I'm fine". Never knew this approach was called stoicism

[@TeKeyaKrystal]

yep , ppl marvel that I say "all my days are good" & I genuinely mean it . I'm here , I'm alive , no matter what happened , I am okay and no matter what will happen , I will be okay . all my days are good

[@lilybird1462]

I had a similar realization when I started college, I would stress and panic over my classes and doing well, but it just brought me suffering, and made me a less happy person in general. one day it just clicked that I really didn't have to worry or be stressed out. Now I just do my best and accept that if I fail that will be alright. Sometimes I do get overwhelmed with work, but I am not stressed or worried about failing or not getting it all done, I just do what I can. Now I am a much more calm and happier person.

[@asthapahwa7001]

"You say, you didn't think it would happen, do you think that there is anything that will not happen, when you know that it is possible to happen" truth of life

[@Crushenator500]

I like Meditations by Marcus Aurelius.

[@Concatenate]

Me too, I much prefer Marcus and Epictetus to Seneca.

[@mael-strom9707]

I prefer the Zen teachings of Bodhidharma.

[@bonkahermitakaintjudge9228]

Nice to see virtue presented as a noble characteristic rather than a sign of weakness. Courage, is not an act of foolhardiness, patience is not a weakness, loyalty is not an indication it submissiveness, and honour is always something to be proud of as it is always bestowed on people our societies deemed worthy of the honorarium. Thanks

[@gooney2846]

I'm quite mind blown considering my journey through depression led me to live this way before watching this video. In the years after high school I setup a moral code/law for myself that I never wish to break. I went from high middle class to homeless within a day, by choice, but in said society doing such a thing is difficult. Everyone around me worried yet I simply trusted my path. I was basically forced back into a "normal life" yet I always wish to go back. I've been realizing how carelessly I live recently (compared to others in my life) and attempting to justify these things but ultimately it always comes back to the thought "this is me". I even remember on a phone call with a friend I said I think of both negative and positive outcomes to prepare myself for anything. Yet doing so makes you a strange person.

[@nathandestaart]

This is such a breath of fresh air! Little bit of personal experience: I have been raised by optimists. I was raised to believe God is good, and God wanted me to be healed, that I would be a great father, I would have a loving wife, I would have a good education, and I would be a healer for Jesus. I had a bright future, a bright career ahead of me, and that I was meant for great things. I was bullied throughout primary school, my childhood religious beliefs fell apart at first glance, I became depressed, I became fraught with anxiety, I spend years upon years in therapy while receiving only disability benefits (that only barely allow me to live). I was frequently misdiagnosed, I failed to complete 3 different studies and numerous jobs because of my health. I have chronic pain. I am gay. I have been severely mistreated by well-meaning but very misguided Christians. I struggle on a daily basis with my physical health, my joblessness, my lack of a relationship, and my finances. On top of that I have acute and often very dark intuitions about things, that (because of the optimistic culture I've been brought up in) I've been ashamed of, and are often correct (combine that with my ability to sense bad events - regardless if you regard that as paranormal or a great subconscious sense of what is likely to happen), and it's a rather unpleasant combo, especially when you're trying to remain hopeful. It definitely has only lead to more anxiety, which has lead to more dispair, more anger, and more dissociation, which has lead me to more 'seeking to turn the tide'. And every single time, hope has only given me more anxiety. This is the first thing that actually helps. What if I remain unemployed, chronically in pain, and socially awkward, and relatively alone for the rest of my life and I end up being abandoned by everyone I hold dear? I'll survive. To me, knowing my strength in spite of all that life could throw at me and most likely will, is more helpful than all of the well-wishes in the world combined. Ironically, this has made me more hopeful than ever. Not in the sense that I believe things will get better, but in the sense that I'll be able to deal with it. Thank you!

[@whartanto2]

Funny that I learned this myself 9 years ago when I faced panic attacks. Think of the worst possible outcome; and accept (and truly believe) that it will happen. The second I accept that, all my fear disappeared.

[@AFMTAG]

I like that comment about dying as a way of escape. I personally don't believe it means killing yourself, but rather killing your mind as it currently is. The reason things aren't working out is because of how you're thinking at the time. I like to think by killing your current mindset, you make room for another, one that's better at handling your situation.

[@Concatenate]

You totally understand it. Well done. It's difficult to control your thoughts and to change the way you think. Most of us are never really taught how to think, we learn by observation and mimicking others. Unfortunately, we're surrounded by people who complain about everything outside of their control and are consumed with desires outside of their reach.

[@leoreodcinn9153]

Suicide doesn't mean termination of one's self, but simply the death of one's self. It's unreasonable to say something cannot become anew of suicide, a rebirth of sorts, unlike in termination.

[@IonelG56]

I have never had suicidal thoughts. But I feel that in the moment I decide I have nothing to live for I will be truly free, because nothing is holding me back I can do whatever I want. I will be able to do any thing I wanted to do but was stopped by fear. Since I no longer fear death, but welcome it, I will be able to jump from an airplane, bungee jump, I will tell that annoying neighbor what I always thought of him. If I lost all fear of loosing my life I will be able to save someones life by risking my own, I will donate everything I have without the fear of loosing all my things. Finally, I will be able to act as I see is just and fair, without the fear of what people think about me, without the need to make sure I have what to eat tomorrow, or where to sleep. I think that point is truly remarkable.

[@kirtreeves7777]

Well said,

[@johntaylor9381]

I love stoicism. It’s helped me a lot lately. It’s just such an immensely practical philosophy that is easily adopted into ones life. Now more than ever the world needs more stoics.

[@yetanotheryoutuber4271]

Recently I asked a girl out on a date, which she not-so politely declined. I was heart broken. I was heart broken because I was absolutely sure she would say yes and never even contemplated otherwise. After some time of heart wrench I remembered the Stoics. Oh, if only I had considered the worst I wouldn't be feeling so bad now. Even that thought made me feel better. :) Reality is what it is.. what we think it is is all in our minds.

[@leetlbt]

Watch (alpha male strategies)

[@bullseye6969]

I just got introduced to the idea of stoicism but many times I used to think as stoic like thinking the worst case scenario then hammer out the best solution and many people said your thinking is flawed (which is possible) but now I think there are ways I can improve by learning stoicism.

[@natalianat9105]

Stoicism helps me to get back in line after bad depression and prevent panic attacks Even though its still far from perfection, but when i started to apply this little by little, my life is getting better. Learn stoicism is really good for inner peace and self upgrade - hence to be a better human and a better woman ❤️❤️

[@alecknathan2357]

some of the most important Stoic philosophers were slaves, such as Epictetus who had no control over his own body and life; Others were emperors, such as Marcus Aurelius, who faced the setbacks of ruling an empire where too much was beyond his control and terrible could be the consequences of his deeds. Yet, both were serene, virtuous and successful people, great teachers and lived a correct life for the greater good of humankind, worrying only about what was according the decisions that they could actually control in accordance with their own nature, always trying to do what was the correct and more virtuous role for the greater good. Live every day as if it were your last. Death doesn't make life pointless. Death makes life worth living.Worry only about what is good for you and discard what is not good and superfluous. Do not worry about what others think and do but with what you think and you do best. Test your self control and temperance every day. Using food as an example, eat to live rather than live to eat. Practice self-control with all your pleasures.Don't think about what a person said, but how a person behaved and do the same teaching and learning by example. Do not worry about the imponderable beyond your control but with what is in your hands to control, to do it better and where you can improve. Care only what is your reach and nothing else. Failure is natural; regret is foolish! Marcus Aurelius said: "The impediment to action advances action what stands in the way becomes the way". Failure is out of our control but regret not. If you chose regret about failure you are acting against something which you cannot control this is the path to frustration. Focus on "insignificant" small things of life, small things done consistently is the path to great success. Throw away all vanity: leave your ego aside periodically to learn new things. Embrace your ignorance to open space to learn the wisdom of the others and though the wisdom of nature presented to you. If you have a role or an obligation to do, always do your best, for you and the others in your community, according to what is most virtuous and be courageous: "Cowards die many times before their deaths; The valiant never taste of death but once." and never..., never complain! With a life of virtue we achieve happiness. Understand the pillars of Stoicism is very easy. Living a stoic life is a matter of being vigilant and practicing these simple fundamentals every day.

[@isiluysal]

Thank you very much for your thoughts.

[@Lina-ps5hi]

I am constantly thinking this way - seeing the bigger picture rather than becoming upset or anxious about menial things, which is why I face the issue of not being able to regard anything seriously at all. I am constantly missing deadlines and spending my time watching tv shows or doing things that give me immediate satisfaction, despite liking my coarse and not minding the work, I cant sit down and do it because I keep thinking "but what the point?". I've been told a lot that I don't stress enough, and yes I think it is a negative, because when I don't worry at all, I don't make any effort to do things, i.e; pursue my passions and interests, because what is the point?

[@brittanyclarke6287]

This is in alignment with Sam Harris' Guided Meditation I listened to last night. Meditation is preparation for the worst day in your life, to be simply consciousness aware of our surroundings, being disconnected to the thoughts in your head. This video should be a series, for I feel that Stoicism could take a dive further into the wonderful words of Epictetus.

[@LuluuBueno]

Avoid suffering and you'll have a tough life, learn how to deal with that and you'll have a happy existence.

[@stevec.8196]

I once read an article that described how each person only has control over about 4% of everything they worry about. Since that day I have come to terms with my life and my surroundings and I chose not to worry about anything anymore. Not even the 4%. I try to do well in everything that I undertake through research and well thought out decisions. I pay attention to the outside world and what is going on, but I don't worry about it, because I have very little control over those things. I act on the things I am capable of acting on. I plan for the worst and hope for the best. I live a (nearly) stress-free lifestyle (to the chagrin of many others). I am very happy most of the time. When I am unhappy, I think about why that is and it usually comes down to things that I have no control over and then I am happy again. After stumbling onto some Stoicism videos and subsequently, some articles and onto philosophies, I realized that I (think I) have been living stoically for nearly two thirds of my life (Currently 34). If you want a quick and easy way to improve your happiness; "compare yourself to who you were yesterday and not to someone else today" (Jordan B. Peterson). Or you could compare yourself to someone living in Rural China, or India, or possibly in North Korea or War-Torn Congo. This bout of happiness will be temporary, but you will begin to appreciate the little things that you take for granted each day.

[@stonedape8437]

When you really go into the question of weather life is worth living you receive a much greater appreciation for the things that make the game worth the candle.

[@mrtrick83]

I've struggled with the motives behind the suicide of a family member for years. This summation revealed to me in 7 minutes more than I'd uncovered in a decade of pondering. I love this channel.

[@HumanbeingonfloatingEarth]

I come back again and again to these clips. .such comfort and assurance. Always Thank u School of Life. U really make a huge difference Literally affect your listeners fate by bringing us back from despair to rationality and realism and resilience. Ever thankful

[@mauriciomazzucca1358]

Thank you for setting me free of my mind. I know It"s kinda of cliche to say It, but this simple words made me feel more reliefed than all the self-improvement books, theraphy sessions and anti-depressives that i been trough on the last 5 years. This video, my friend, was the initial spark to an inner peace that i had long forgotten. Thank you for that.

[@stewartann816]

I was practicing stoicism before I even knew what it was. I strive to keep these principles in mind every day and I have noticed a significant change in my attitude

[@goodshepherd3508]

Great to hear that and also I was practicing stoicism even though not knowing what it actually was. I will also continue on this path.

[@shanerowen4986]

It is better to conquer our grief than to deceive it.”- Seneca

[@pedrostormrage]

5:18 "Would Marcia choose to step into such a world? Her existence suggested her answer" Not at all, and that's the problem. Who's to say she was given a *choice* between life and "unlife" to begin with? And even if she's alive now, it doesn't mean she's actually "choosing" life (how could she make a choice if she doesn't even know what the alternatives are, what they mean, and what consequences they bring about?).

[@zmcg17]

"but did you die?" is just stoicism for millennials

[@henric.6159]

It seems to me that this video advocates suicide? maybe that explains the 715 thumbs down?

[@ScottyPeabody]

As a newcomer it’s hard to wrap my head around this philosophy even though I know it represents what’s best for me now. I’ve spent my entire life trying to find peace thru prosperity, cramming my head full of positive affirmations in dreams they will come true only to find out the greatest results were but a fleeting joy. Now my health is failing and I’m powerless over the outcome as much as I pretend I can change it.

[@conversationcorner1837]

Did the affirmations fail ?

[@toratheexplora9207]

I NEED SUBTITLES!!! It's too precious, I need to understand all of it!

[@smadhavirathi6923]

I have always been a follower of this theory. Until now, I wanted to give up this idea because people around me told I 'think' too much negative things than usual, but it always gave me peace to prepare for it despite the outcomes, so I stuck by it. This video gave a even better reason to hold on to this theory.

[@dj_bae]

I found out that an acquaintance of mine had been murdered yesterday and my first instinct was practice Stoicism and to think that these things sometimes happen and that nothing in life is guaranteed. Death will always be inevitable and to allow it to disrupt our tranquility because it didn’t happen exactly the way we wanted it to is willfully torturing ourselves for no good reason.

[@crestaljean824]

This is re-assuring, that choosing to end my life at a certain age is valid. That I am not being unfair to myself, rather than I am giving myself a chance to die when and how I want to.

[@ErwinSchrodinger64]

Stoicism.... oh yes, professor Snape. At the very end of Harry Potter, he was ridiculed, hated, and brutally murdered. Never once complaining or feeling sorry for himself. In the end, remembered as a man who truly sacrificed for the greater good.

[@MaggotDiggo1]

ErwinSchrodinger64 Thanks for ruining Harry Potter for me.

[@ErwinSchrodinger64]

MaggotDiggo1, watch the series. I promise you... you will hate him till the end. Only finally realizing, how the story magnificently shows his sacrifice and makes sense of why he even murdered.

[@ErwinSchrodinger64]

J.S, sorry, bro. I only watched the movies and it's been a long time.

[@alakuay9525]

great stuff.

[@VixXstazosJOB]

Well, He was hated cause he - betrayed - Dumbledore, he also was victim of classic bullying - The Irony - ... not cause he used Stioicism as a way of life. Idk, about this comment lol, it reads as if people will end that way if they ever use Stoicism, maybe it coouuld happen but irl it depends on many things, basically the country or place you live in - LatinAmerica is so simple minded for these non that deep things is just disgusting... the bane of all my life, how my people thing about this kind of attitude and phylosophic stuff -

[@Soapandwater6]

I guess I didn't know I was a stoic. I agree with so much in the video. There are no guarantees in life. None. Where did we get the idea that bad things would never happen to us personally? Nobody escapes pain, sickness, grief, and heartache for too long. I have already dared to imagine all the possible worst scenarios of life and therefore feel more prepared to face them if or when they befall me. But in the meantime while things are going well, I appreciate it all so much more.

[@tuts351]

Millennials need some stoic teachings right now

[@mywifesboyfriendisfire]

Perhaps, due to the collosal and persistent screwups of the baby boomers.

[@chicagoboy279]

We need to delete our phones

[@MegaJiffyman]

I heard recently from a relative in florida who is in highschool right now that they are actually teaching stoicism is a negative male trait in psychology. Blew me away that a teacher would actually say that

[@SurgeonSilver]

@@MegaJiffyman The stoicism they may be referring to is that of a lower case s, meaning to bottle up ones emotions and not show them. The Stoicism with an upper case S, refers to the philosophy of Stoicism. Andrew Kirby a Stoic you-tuber has a video on that very subject!

[@MegaJiffyman]

Crimson Productions thanks for the info i didn’t know about that ill check out his video

[@emilyandrews6688]

I also like how death is seen casually so that you can have one less thing to worry about. (: By giving you the permission to the ultimate decision, it gives you more lasting courage to keep away from impulsive decisions (that you might regret later on or, if you made the ultimate decision, might hurt others).

[@Byakkun06]

It would be difficult to imagine the worst sometimes, for example KZbin witout The School of Life...

[@oxiigen]

eww, cheesy one

[@jilliansmith7123]

Nidhal HAMZA: KZbin without the ability to post comments...

[@freshprince9382]

You can find a better channel

[@Byakkun06]

Fred Aboli That would be quite difficult, maybe impossible ... Each channel is kinda unique I believe

[@MrKongatthegates]

Life without youtube

[@jilliansmith7123]

I do all that so much! I've been called "so negative" by some whom I consider to be feckless, unwilling to prepare for reality...I didn't realize there was a whole philosophy approving being ready to contemplate all the worst possible things that can happen, and getting ready for those that I can. When you are aware of all that and they aren't happening to you, wow, what a feeling of freedom and gladness just to blink your own eyes! Almost nothing in my life is too trivial or commonplace to be grateful for. I don't need so many things now, amusements, expensive items, meals out...I'm so grateful and enjoy so much what I already have. Didn't know I was a stoic. I'll have to learn more about this.

[@lhylliannacrotford]

These thoughts on death, and suicide, are quite close to my own. I'm not suicidal myself, although I am prey to bouts of depression, and have friends who feel that way. It's painful to know that they suffer enough that sometimes the truly good things about them and our friendships may not be enough. My brother passed away when I was young, and it was all very strange. I don't remember much and it hasn't really hit me how much it affected my life until recently. I feel less bereavement for his death, the result of two strokes just days apart due to a missing artery in his neck, than I do for the recent death of my cat, due to neglect and possible ill treatment from my -father- during my parents' painstaking settlement. When my mother moved out, my siblings and I went with her, but into a rental, which meant leaving the cats in his care. After a time I was having doubts; on visits, I noticed they grew skinnier and their coats became ragged and rough to the touch, and they were far more clingy than they had ever been, and still are. He assured me they were fine. Due to his actions throughout the divorce and some beforehand, I cut off contact, and didn't find out about the cat's passing until my sibling noticed him missing on a visit. It tore me apart. The most heartbroken I've ever been. It's so strange to think how different my reactions were. I'm mostly okay with the idea of death, but the ease of avoidance for Nimbus' passing is what made it so heartrending. I feel like I should have made more of an effort to care for him, and our other cats, but I also know I shouldn't have had to. I do not understand my -father-'s thoughts, and I'm quite glad of that. He shows distinct signs of mental and emotional unease, which have led to abusive behaviours. It was foolish of me to trust him so implicitly with something that could cause so much pain. It has given me the strength to be more vulnerable and show those I treasure that I feel that way. It is so important. I love Nimbus so dearly even now. It has been over a year but still chokes me. I even wrote myself a little will, after pondering my own mortality. I'd rather be prepared than not. Death is inevitable, which makes preparing for it, while treasuring the waking moments, the most important task in and throughout all our lives.

[@clare2385]

I've been reading the Consolations of Philosophy some months ago. This is the advice that helps me the most since then. I use that method about weekly and it's awesome.

[@BULLTRONHERO]

A few years ago, I was wondering exactly why all our problems are actually problems. Looking at them from a historic anthropological perspective, every issue would likely lead to death for a primitive human: losing friends/romantic partnerships leads to isolation (almost certain death), public humiliation threatens the same, and anything else that is a source of worry for us. So I started dealing with problems by first reminding myself that "You either deal with it or you die." Then I assess whether or not I am currently dead. So far the answer has consistently been "no," which then leads me to "Well then, I must be dealing with it. Good job, me, I hadn't even realized! So, what's next?"

[@goodshepherd3508]

Very good my friend you have chosen very option. Actually I was travelling in a train and before boarding there was a lot of rush and I was alone and hat 6 bags with me and I had travelled 5 years ago and I had to stand for 10 hours and I thought the same is going to happen or what I was thinking of cancelling the journey but one thought said no there is no going back so l boarded the train and got a good seat and relaxed and chill.

[@goodshepherd3508]

We can conquer our fears.

[@emilyandrews6688]

This is a good philosophy to follow. I like how it gives you the courage to persevere and be in control of your life. Stoicism is a necessity when so many people (sometimes including myself) lack the grit and ambition to follow through with tough challenges. This was very helpful. Thanks, School of Life!

[@goodshepherd3508]

Good, please continue to work with it.

[@ZasraFREE]

This channel is absolutely brilliant, thank you School of Life!!!!

[@DroolingLizard]

Personally, the writings of Seneca have helped me through difficult personal times. When nothing else seems to cheer me up, I pick the Stoic letters back up and they bring me great peace.

[@nulpukka7388]

These were the exact thoughts I needed to be reminded of right at this moment. Thank you.

[@RecreationalUseOnly]

I must learn how much stoicism I should actually adhered to in my life, especially personal and relationship life. I realize that in all three of my long-term relationships and I put up with a lot of physical and mental abuse by what I have learned to be three narcissistic women through seeing amazing psychotherapists. Part of the reason I tolerated that abuse from them was because I was adhering to principles such as "it could always be worse", so I compartmentalized my emotions instead of standing up for myself. Now I know that there are certain things that I should never tolerate or endure.

[@cycnus]

Stoicism attempts to give you some perspective on why you should not needlessly worry or fight against what you can't control; things like disease, calamities, accidents, decisions made outside your sphere of influence, misfortunes from a chaotic universe that affect you. Stoicism isn't about enduring any situation at all costs. In your case, after recognising you were in an unhappy and abusing relationship, you still had the option to leave: however hard that would be, that decision is still somehow yours to make. Stoicism is about trying to get some measure of control over what affects your life to find some peace and contentment. It's about trying to have a more realistic outlook while preparing yourself for what could go wrong so you can better realise what should be important (for instance thinking about what would happen when your friends/partner/family will no longer be there; anticipating the void and the regrets you would have and turning that into something positive now so you will have some measure of closure when the inevitable happens).

[@lydia061871]

Echoing "Stoicism is not about enduring" its more of expecting the worst case scenario calmly and planning accordingly your next steps, not settling for it and calm yourself by "it could have been worse.

[@Deepak-yb2wy]

This video is so well made, the animations and the depictions are perfect!

[@cpt.dr.hawkeye1740]

TDLR: Stoicism is about making peace with the worst possible outcome

[@MrEvanston]

EXCELLENT!! I received more wisdom from this youtube video than I ever received from religion/going to church/bible study.

[@Heywolffee]

I have always told myself ending my life is an option. It has always claimed my anxiety. It's really interesting that stoics also feel that way. I always get backlash when i express this outwardly. It's like those who understand their mortality are less afraid of death.

[@CidGuerreiro1234]

"Guess I'll die" - Seneca, probably.

[@henric.6159]

Perhaps it means work towards building life worth living?

[@CidGuerreiro1234]

@@henric.6159 Or that. It's either one or the other.

[@TrangDB9]

The letter from Seneca to Paulinus is really nice and easy to understand.

[@ju5tinr4y]

never have i ever found anything that so accurately describes the way i look at life intil now.

[@eladiomontero]

Thank you, really, thank you for what you do. I'm really grateful for all the knowledge you transmit every week. You truly have a video for everything. A big hug!

[@shashankm14]

5:28 - "If things were truly unendurable" is such a vague term. I'm afraid that the most mentally vulnerable among us would not be in a state of mind to decide whether their current trouble is "truly unendurable". I sure hope that this video doesn't serve as a catalyst for them to do something which wasn't intended at all.... :(

[@mongoahuman9087]

I think the point is that "unendurable" is subjective, while the possible responses to such an event are not; there are only these few regardless of morals, creed, or culture, and that's an objective reality check that needs to be invoked much more often during the decisions that we make as a people. Cold comfort, but there truly is no other sort that touches us all

[@balthiertsk8596]

Life in its essence is meaningless. This is what existensialism taught people. Stoicism see it that, What actually matters really? Does death mean anything? True, it bring perhaps great sadness, but, what does it mean is what trully matters. I could fail and get consecutive 0 at school, but what does that mean to me? For someone who seek a life of achievement by score, it means their life. But for someone who seek to save lives, what does numbers on a paper really mean? What drives people is what matter. If you live only to suffer without meaning, then why live? But, know this. Even suffering brings meaning. But for you suicidals who read this. It is not about worth. It is not about how much sadness you will create. It is about how much meaning your death have. Think deeply, and perhaps seek a dialogue with a close friend, relative, or psychiatrist. Is it truly your final choice? Does your life have no other meaning? But will death bring resolution? Escape is also a resolution. But is it simply a lazy way out or is it trully the only remaining meaning you have?

[@sammycromey5765]

It literally said in the videa that Seneca was not promoting willie nillie suicide.

[@darrenpellichino2923]

Life is a cycle of death and one day you will die. It 100% truly doesn't matter how you die. It even goes against the basic principles of the stoic philosophy and yet it is part of the philosophy. Because it is one of your choices to take your own life, you are free to choose it if you want.

[@darrenpellichino2923]

@@balthiertsk8596 Thanks so much, I enjoyed reading your comment. Once I was able to open my mind enough to grasp the larger picture of existence I understood human existence as meaningless. To explain...Our planet is rotating around the sun, and no matter what every human does or doesn't do we have no ability whatsoever to even slightly affect the rotation of earth. And Earth is a tiny insignificant speck. Our lives are not that big a deal, which is what relives you of all the stress that come from thinking your little existence is somehow this huge event.

[@randyfiore1311]

What's the worst that could happen. dieing well is better than living ill. Love this

[@IExpectedBSJustNotThisMuchBS]

Had no idea I was a stoic. Have never said, "Why me?" It's always "Why not me?" Because anything that can happen to anyone can happen to me.

[@DarylZamora]

Certainly there are many good realizations we can get from Stoicism. First of all, it helps us become more objective, getting a more godlike point of view on things (unfortunately we don't have thunderbolts). But it lacks one crucial idea that can also make us "live well" -- hope. While we can expect the worst in life, as Stoicism teaches, it pays to also make room for the hope that good things can happen -- because they have always happened and can happen again. Marzia, then, would do well to ALSO consider deeply those beautiful mountains that Seneca made her see, not just the horrors of the world. It seems that Stoicism is a great first-aid kit: once we've stemmed the bleeding of a wound, it's time to see the fact that indeed wounds do heal.

[@isaac8228]

“Can you no longer see a road to freedom? It's right in front of you. You need only turn over your wrists.” ― Seneca

[@maxmg5660]

I have lived this way withoht knowing anything about this being a philosophy, its comforting to know others think the same

[@-funmemes-9759]

Ah what others lol

[@guilhermegc4854]

Stoicism is wonderful, and had opened my horizons about life!

[@aoyenngoc502]

This is so so great!! I could never thank you enough for your hard and great work to help open my eyes!

[@chaitanyadeshmane6924]

This philosophy has worked for me ; whereas Psychiatric medicine did'nt. Thanks Seneca, Marcus and Epictetus.

[@kingsanalytics2193]

I am starting off newly in this teachings and i choose to remain consistent by nullifying trouble at all times.

[@VixXstazosJOB]

GUTS Physlosophy Ladies and Gents... for those who know him - sorry for bringing manga into this but suddenly it flashed in my mind this is exactly how Guts thinks to stay calm after all the things that happened to him and that will happen to him- this is also why i won't ever hear it or recognize it as being defensive and will try to pacifically bash that statement whenever i can, cause that statement ruins this way of thinking, as if people using Stoicism were childs or something unable to face the world - cause you know... Defense - even regardless of arguments Stoicism isn't really being defensive, is being calm and strong willed, things that will help you achieve goals, stay consistantly capable, and surpass troubles in a cleaner way.... this is also the thing that Capricorns know to do best so let's not ruin what they do best with calling it a Defensive Attitude - maybe technicaly it is i guess, but people see it as something childilish ad that's when it's wrong though -

[@andrewcam7668]

I love stoicism, it has had my life a little better. I suffer from autism, anxiety and depression. and many of the ancient philosophy are brilliant and practical. there is one thing through. there isn't much mention of Marcus Aurelius.

[@St4rstriker]

I have respect for people who can choose their end

[@rozanguyen30yearsand96]

I like to mind battle myself. See through outcomes. Which seems fit to the situation or person. What’s the trend for today’s weather. Relax and be comfortable. Be in the right mindset for a particular state. Should I react to this misbehavior? My eyes are quiet but dirty... Something is going to happen today. How should I think of this? Let’s not waste time so we may have our own accustomed moment to our selves!

[@musfiqurrahman4576]

Why doesn't KZbin have a 'Love' button?? Hehehehe... I feel like just a 'thumb's up' is not enough. I'm indebted to you, The School of Life.

[@-funmemes-9759]

Love button is that even a thing

[@osamaghaedy1869]

Still haven’t found any advice more effective than stoicism

[@Soytu19]

"Hope can drive a man insane"

[@OMAR-vq3yb]

Came here to learn how to be calmer. Leaving with the lesson that suicide is always an option, and a 'noble path', if things become unbearable. Thanks School of Life!!!!!

[@rebeccabode8764]

What a wonderful public service. We should teach this in schools. Thankyou :)

[@jovanyagathe2299]

We underestimate our capabilities just as much and just as dangerously as we overestimate other abilities. Cultivate the ability to judge yourself accurately and honestly.

[@mathiaslaurence1006]

Dying well means to escape from Living ill. So realistic.

[@sirturd2954]

I think the reason I’m drawn towards this philosophy is that while there are those that always see things positively, I’ve never been able to do so and I think that since I already have a shitty outlook being able to spin that by picturing the worst and thinking of negative outcomes it really prepares you.

[@Ifyoufeelike]

Victor Frankl’s Man’s Search For Meaning is one of the most influencial books ı ve ever read. It dwells on the ideas of Stoics ı believe. I find the idea of logothreaphy and his observations on prisoners pscyhology very close to the stoic ideas Even in the sense of virtue. If you suffer from thoughts of depression and death please give this book a try. It certainly helps

[@rjscat4235]

I have been a Stoic since I was in seventh grade. Those who do not embrace this philosophy have a much greater risk of committing unnecessary suicide over trivial or ephemeral issues. Most of the unpleasant things that come along in life are temporary, like kidney stones, and one's attitude should be, "And this too shall pass."

[@pepehorhae]

This is the ultimate question in which i advocate in the affirmative: could stoicism cure depression? Your thoughts or discussions in this comment would be appreciated by me and everyone in the community thanks for sharing pañeros!

[@goodshepherd3508]

Yes, I can say stoicism can really heal all forms of pain and suffering and all forms of trauma and PTSD and depression. Because in Bible we see in the life of Naomi she lost her husband and sons but still after some years she healed from the trauma because believed in God and also Joseph and Job and Daniel are the best examples of patience and stoicism.

[@steves3422]

Well Done! A very good summary of Stoic philosophy. I have a daily stoic email received; it aids in re-enforcing to take each day as it comes with a rational outlook.