The Daily Stoic – What Stoic Rules Make Life Less Erratic? | A Cure For Procrastination

Intro

In this episode of “The Daily Stoic,” the host explores the Stoic philosophy as a guide for living. Stoicism provides practical rules to stay on the right path and maintain high standards. The episode delves into the concept of procrastination and how it is viewed by Stoics. By following the Stoic rules, we can overcome procrastination and lead a more focused and purposeful life.

Main Takeaways

Stoic Rules for Living

• Philosophy was not just a subject to write or argue about, but a set of rules to live by.
• Stoicism is a design for living, providing rules to stay on the right path.
• Marcus Aurelius had rules such as being tolerant with others, limiting oneself to the present, and choosing not to be harmed.
• Following rules won’t solve all problems, but it will help maintain high standards.

Procrastination and Stoicism

• Procrastination is seen as a form of delusion and entitlement by Stoics, and important tasks should be done now as we don’t know what the future holds.
• Procrastination leads to a low-grade, non-state of anxiety.
• Seneca says anything that must be done can be done with courage and promptness.
• Marcus Aurelius believes spending each day as if it were your last is the mark of perfection of character.
• Procrastination is a form of arrogance, as we don’t know what the future holds.

Overcoming Procrastination

• Momentum is important; anything that can be done today must be done today.
• Habits are the foundation of success (James Clear).
• Consistency is key in forming habits (James Clear).
• The 2-minute rule: start with a small action to build momentum (James Clear).
• The power of language: use “I don’t” instead of “I can’t” (Vanessa Van Edwards).
• Embrace failure as a learning opportunity (Sara Blakely).

Summary

Stoic Rules for Living

The Stoics believed that philosophy was not just an intellectual pursuit but a practical guide for living. They emphasized the importance of following rules to stay on the right path and maintain high standards. Marcus Aurelius, one of the prominent Stoic philosophers, had specific rules such as being tolerant with others, focusing on the present moment, and choosing not to be harmed. While following these rules won’t solve all problems, they help individuals lead a more virtuous and purposeful life.

Procrastination and Stoicism

Stoics view procrastination as a form of delusion and entitlement. They believe that important tasks should be done promptly, as the future is uncertain. Procrastination leads to a state of anxiety and prevents individuals from fully engaging with the present moment. Seneca suggests that anything that must be done can be accomplished with courage and promptness. Marcus Aurelius emphasizes the importance of living each day as if it were the last, as it signifies the perfection of character. By recognizing the arrogance inherent in procrastination, individuals can overcome this habit and live a more intentional life.

Overcoming Procrastination

To overcome procrastination, it is essential to prioritize momentum and action. Building positive habits is the foundation of success, as highlighted by James Clear. Consistency is key in forming these habits, ensuring that they become ingrained in daily life. The 2-minute rule, advocated by Clear, suggests starting with a small action to build momentum and overcome inertia. Language also plays a significant role in overcoming procrastination. Using phrases like “I don’t” instead of “I can’t,” as suggested by Vanessa Van Edwards, empowers individuals to take ownership of their choices. Embracing failure as a learning opportunity, as emphasized by Sara Blakely, allows individuals to move forward and grow from setbacks.

Conclusion

By embracing the Stoic philosophy and following practical rules for living, individuals can overcome procrastination and lead a more focused and purposeful life. Recognizing the delusion and entitlement inherent in procrastination, prioritizing momentum and action, and adopting empowering language are key strategies to overcome this habit. Embracing failure as a learning opportunity further fuels personal growth. By incorporating these principles into daily life, individuals can cultivate resilience, discipline, and a sense of purpose.