Practice selfcontrol and emotional resilience from "summary" of How to Be a Stoic by Massimo Pigliucci
The Stoics were particularly interested in the concept of self-control and emotional resilience. They believed that our emotions are within our control, and that we have the power to choose how we react to external events. This doesn't mean that we should suppress our emotions or deny them; rather, we should acknowledge them and then choose how to respond in a rational and constructive way. One of the key exercises that the Stoics recommended in order to practice self-control and emotional resilience is negative visualization. This involves imagining the worst-case scenario in a given situation, in order to mentally prepare ourselves for it. By doing this, we can reduce our fear of negative outcomes and better handle adversity when it does occur. Another important aspect of self-control and emotional resilience is the practice of mindfulness. This involves being present in the moment and fully aware of our thoughts and emotions. By cultivating mindfulness, we can better understand our reactions and choose how to respond to them in a more intentional way. The Stoics also emphasized the importance of reason in guiding our actions and responses. They believed that by using our rational faculty, we can better evaluate situations and make decisions that are in line with our values and goals. This requires self-awareness and the ability to reflect on our emotions without being consumed by them.- Practicing self-control and emotional resilience is a lifelong journey that requires dedication and effort. By cultivating these virtues, we can become more resilient in the face of adversity and lead a more balanced and fulfilling life.
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