All The Stoics Were Kings | Following The Doctor’s Orders | The Daily Stoic

Intro

In this episode of “The Daily Stoic,” the hosts discuss the concept that all Stoics were kings, not just Marcus Aurelius. They explore the idea that being a kingly person is more important than holding the title of a king. They also delve into the power of practicing Stoicism through actions and the importance of viewing obstacles as opportunities for growth and improvement.

Main Takeaways

All Stoics were kings

• It didn’t matter what one did for a living, it mattered how they did it
• Being a kingly person was more important than having the job of a king

Practicing Stoicism through actions

• Importance of practicing Stoicism through actions, not just words
• Lives of the Stoics book profiles lesser-known but fascinating examples of Stoicism

Viewing obstacles as opportunities

• Obstacles can be seen as opportunities for growth and improvement
• Stop fighting and pushing against obstacles, see them as a prescription
• View obstacles as part of the process and an assignment given to you
• Choose how you will handle obstacles, be a good patient or a bad patient, a good student or a bad student
• These obstacles were chosen for you, and all you have to do is choose them back.

Summary

All Stoics were kings

The hosts emphasize that all Stoics were kings, not just Marcus Aurelius. They explain that being a kingly person was more important than holding the title of a king. It didn’t matter what one did for a living; what mattered was how they approached their work and their interactions with others. The hosts highlight the idea that anyone can cultivate a kingly mindset and embody the virtues of Stoicism, regardless of their social status or occupation.

Practicing Stoicism through actions

The hosts discuss the importance of practicing Stoicism through actions, not just words. They mention the book “Lives of the Stoics,” which profiles lesser-known but fascinating examples of Stoicism in practice. They emphasize the idea that Stoicism is not merely a philosophy to be studied and understood intellectually, but a way of life to be lived and embodied. The hosts encourage listeners to take action and apply Stoic principles in their daily lives.

Viewing obstacles as opportunities

The hosts explore the concept of viewing obstacles as opportunities for growth and improvement. They discuss the power of reframing challenges as prescriptions for personal development. Instead of fighting against obstacles, they suggest embracing them as part of the natural process and as assignments specifically chosen for one’s growth. The hosts emphasize the importance of choosing how to handle obstacles, whether as a good patient or a bad patient, a good student or a bad student. They remind listeners that these obstacles were chosen for them, and by embracing them, they can reclaim their power and learn valuable lessons.

Conclusion

By understanding that all Stoics were kings and that being a kingly person is more important than holding a royal title, listeners can cultivate a mindset of virtue and resilience. Practicing Stoicism through actions and viewing obstacles as opportunities for growth can lead to personal transformation and a deeper understanding of oneself. Embracing the teachings of Stoicism can empower individuals to navigate life’s challenges with wisdom and grace.