What Do You See? | Ask Ds | The Daily Stoic

Intro

In this episode of “The Daily Stoic,” the host explores the concept of perception and how it shapes our reality. Through the lens of Stoicism, he discusses the importance of choosing how we see things and the impact it has on our lives.

Main Takeaways

Perception Shapes Reality

• How we choose to see things determines what they are.
• We can find beauty and peace even in desolate places.

The Challenge of Virtue

• Stoicism is about doing the right thing, but it’s hard to define what virtue is.
• There is a risk of becoming a better sociopath by removing fears and worries.
• Stoicism is not about ignoring praise or jeers to do the wrong thing.
• Stoicism is about not caring about credit or recognition and instead focusing on doing the right thing for the right reasons.

Marcus Aurelius and Service

• Marcus Aurelius focused on the common good, serving people, and being of service.
• Marcus Aurelius spent years of his life in Budapest, where you can visit Roman ruins and thermal underground springs that he may have used.

Learning from Historical Sites

• Seeking out historical sites while traveling can help us imagine what was there and learn from the past.
• Visiting historical sites can be a meditative and humbling experience.

Overcoming Obstacles and Attachment

• Life can be rough, and unexpected things can happen.
• Being too attached to material possessions can lead to vulnerability.
• Every obstacle presents an opportunity to practice a different virtue.
• Toughening yourself up can lead to being stronger and wiser.

Tiz the Grinch Holiday Talk Show

• Tiz the Grinch Holiday Talk Show is a podcast that campaigns against Christmas cheer.
• The show features celebrity guests who are grilled by the Grinch.
• The Grinch is famously great with kids.
• Listeners can join One Re Plus to listen to the show early and for free.
• “Your family will love the show.” – the Grinch

Summary

Perception Shapes Reality

Our perception of the world greatly influences our experience. By choosing to see the beauty and peace even in desolate places, we can transform our reality and find joy in unexpected situations.

The Challenge of Virtue

Stoicism emphasizes doing the right thing, but defining what virtue is can be challenging. While removing fears and worries can lead to personal growth, it’s important not to ignore praise or jeers to do the wrong thing. Instead, Stoicism encourages us to focus on doing the right thing for the right reasons, without seeking credit or recognition.

Marcus Aurelius and Service

Marcus Aurelius, a prominent Stoic philosopher, prioritized the common good and serving others. Exploring historical sites associated with him, such as the Roman ruins and thermal underground springs in Budapest, can provide insights into his life and teachings.

Learning from Historical Sites

Visiting historical sites while traveling allows us to connect with the past and gain a deeper understanding of different cultures and civilizations. It can be a meditative and humbling experience, reminding us of the impermanence of life and the lessons we can learn from those who came before us.

Overcoming Obstacles and Attachment

Life is unpredictable, and obstacles are inevitable. Stoicism teaches us to embrace these challenges as opportunities to practice different virtues and grow stronger and wiser. Being too attached to material possessions can make us vulnerable, so cultivating resilience and detachment can help us navigate the ups and downs of life.

Tiz the Grinch Holiday Talk Show

Tiz the Grinch Holiday Talk Show is a unique podcast that takes a different approach to Christmas cheer. With celebrity guests being grilled by the Grinch, it offers a humorous and entertaining perspective on the holiday season. Listeners can join One Re Plus to enjoy early and free access to the show, making it a fun option for the whole family.

Conclusion

By consciously choosing how we perceive the world, embracing challenges, and focusing on doing the right thing for the right reasons, we can cultivate a Stoic mindset that brings peace, resilience, and personal growth. Exploring historical sites and engaging with unconventional podcasts like Tiz the Grinch Holiday Talk Show can also provide unique insights and entertainment along the way.