Stoicism teaches the value of selfdiscipline from "summary" of Lessons in Stoicism by John Sellars
The Stoics believed that self-discipline was essential for living a good life. They saw self-discipline as a virtue that enabled individuals to overcome their desires and emotions, allowing them to act in accordance with reason. By cultivating self-discipline, one could resist the temptations of pleasure, avoid the pitfalls of anger, and make rational decisions based on wisdom. Self-discipline, for the Stoics, was not about denying oneself pleasure or living a life of austerity. Instead, it was about mastering one's desires and emotions, so that one could live in harmony with nature and achieve eudaimonia - a state of flourishing and well-being. Self-discipline was seen as a means of achieving inner freedom and independence, enabling individuals to live in accordance with their true nature and values. The Stoics believed that self-discipline was a skill that could be developed through practice and training. By engaging in exercises such as negative visualization, where one imagines losing the things they value most, individuals could learn to appreciate what they have and not be controlled by their desires. Through self-examination and reflection, one could identify their weaknesses and work towards overcoming them, thereby strengthening their self-discipline. Self-discipline was also seen as a way of cultivating resilience and fortitude in the face of adversity. By learning to endure hardship and suffering with patience and equanimity, individuals could develop the strength and courage to face life's challenges with grace and dignity. Self-discipline allowed one to maintain their composure in difficult situations and respond to adversity with wisdom and self-control.- Self-discipline was seen as a means of achieving inner peace and tranquility, regardless of external circumstances. By mastering their desires and emotions, individuals could free themselves from the tyranny of pleasure and pain, and find contentment in living a life guided by reason and virtue. Self-discipline was thus at the heart of Stoic ethics, providing a foundation for living a good and meaningful life.
