Tag Archives: life

Criticism with a Stoic Mindset: Embracing Individuality and Purpose

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Recently, someone asked me for a date. When I declined the invitation, the tone shifted, and a barrage of criticism ensued over the phone. In about five minutes, the caller questioned my intentions and choices, particularly regarding my website. He implied that my creation of tarot cards and sharing my life story was an attempt to portray myself as someone else.

In such moments, Stoic philosophy becomes a guiding light, offering principles to help me navigate criticism and stay true to my path.

1. Understanding the Source of Criticism

Instead of letting criticism fester, I took a moment to consider the source. Understanding that everyone has their perspective and biases allowed me to approach the criticism with a level-headed mindset.

2. Separating Opinions from Self-Worth

Stoicism encourages us to detach our self-worth from external opinions. Rather than internalizing the critique as a judgment of my value, I chose to separate my identity from the opinions of others.

3. Focusing on What’s Within My Control

Stoics emphasize directing energy toward factors within our control. I reflected on the aspects of my website that align with my vision and purpose, rather than dwelling on opinions beyond my influence.

4. Turning Criticism into an Opportunity for Growth

Stoicism encourages us to view challenges as opportunities for growth. Instead of seeing criticism as a setback, I considered it a chance to refine and clarify my intentions, making my website a more authentic representation of my journey.

5. Accepting Impermanence

Stoic philosophy teaches us to accept the impermanence of external circumstances. Realizing that criticism, – like praise, is temporary, helped me maintain a sense of tranquility amid the storm of opinions.

6. Choosing Virtue Over Reputation

Stoics prioritize virtue over reputation. In the face of criticism, I focused on upholding the values and principles that matter to me, recognizing that the opinions of others don’t define my character.

7. Continuing the Pursuit of Passion

Stoicism advocates for staying true to our passions despite external judgment. With renewed determination, As I planned, I am bringing back the original concept of my website, acknowledging that my journey is a unique and evolving process.

In embracing these Stoic principles, I found solace and strength to pursue my path with authenticity and resilience. Critics may come and go, but the steadfast commitment to my purpose and individuality remains unwavering. Stoicism, with its practical wisdom, provides a timeless guide to weathering the storms of criticism and staying true to oneself.

Free Will; Life’s Painful Choice

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For the past two days, I’ve been grappling with a stubborn headache. I tried the classic remedy of popping pills, hoping for that sweet relief. Strangely enough, yesterday, I decided to take a different route – no medications, just a good old rest. Spoiler alert: it didn’t work. The pain escalated until I gave in and grabbed the pain reliever. Miraculously, the pain started to bid adieu.

In the midst of this headache saga, I found myself pondering a question that’s been debated for centuries: do we really have free will, or are we just swimming in a sea of choices? It’s a bit like my headache dilemma – to take or not to take the meds.

Enter the intriguing world of free will. Picture it as this cosmic remote control that lets us decide our actions, like choosing whether or not to endure the throbbing pain in our heads. Some folks argue that our choices are predetermined, like following a script. Others say we’re the authors of our destinies, flipping through the pages as we please.

Now, imagine you’re in a cozy bookstore, browsing the philosophy section. You stumble upon a book called “Freedom Evolves” by Daniel Dennett. This guy dives deep into the free will debate, suggesting that our freedom to choose evolves over time. It’s not a static trait but a dynamic dance between our biology and the environment.

Dennett compares our evolving freedom to a game of chess. In the beginning, the moves are limited, but as the game progresses, more options open up. Similarly, as we navigate life, our choices become more nuanced and complex. It’s like upgrading from a basic chess set to a three-dimensional holographic version.

So, back to my headache-induced musings. Maybe our free will is a bit like choosing whether or not to medicate a headache. We might not control every twist and turn, but in those moments of choice, we get to play a hand in the unfolding story of our lives.

In the end, whether it’s battling headaches or contemplating the mysteries of free will, the journey is often more interesting than the destination. After all, life’s choices are the colors that paint the canvas of our existence, headache and all.