Lessons in Stoicism – by John Sellars
Recommendation: 8/10. Date read: 10/9/20.

Short guide on Stoicism that can serve either as a good refresher for those familiar with the philosophy or an easy entry point for those looking for a lightweight introduction. Emphasizes living thoughtfully and hits on all the key concepts inherent to stoicism in less than 100 pages—emotion, judgement, adversity, nature, control, and impermanence.

See my notes below or Amazon for details and reviews.

My Notes:

Judgements:
Focus attention on things within our control, forget about those you can’t control. This requires directing all your attention to your judgements. If you stop observing these or relax for even an instant, you run risk of falling into old habits and compromising your peace of mind.

“No thought is wasted on what others may say or think of him or practice against him; two things alone suffice him, justice in his daily dealings and contentment with all fate’s apportioning.” Marcus Aurelius

Anger:
“Seneca likens being angry to having been thrown off the top of a building and hurtling towards the ground, completely out of control. Once anger takes over, it compromises the whole mind.” JS

“Anger, like all emotions, is the product of a judgement made in the mind.” JS

Adversity:
From Seneca: Adversity falls hardest on those who don’t expect it. But it’s much easier to cope with for those prepared for it.