Practical Philosophy: 3 Ancient Lessons For Daily Life
Taking a practical approach to philosophy is about applying wisdom to improve our everyday lives. While philosophy may seem abstract or distant, ancient thinkers like Marcus Aurelius, Epicurus, and Aristotle offered simple, powerful teachings that can help us live more fulfilling and balanced lives. These lessons, though centuries old, remain relevant today. Let’s explore three ancient philosophical teachings that can guide us through daily challenges and enrich our minds.
1. Stoicism: Focus on What You Can Control
The Stoics, especially Marcus Aurelius and Epictetus, taught that peace of mind comes from recognizing what is within our control and what is not. This simple idea lies at the heart of Stoicism. According to this philosophy, most of what happens in life—external events, the opinions of others, the weather, traffic—is beyond our control. What we can control, however, is how we react to these things. By shifting our focus inward, we free ourselves from anxiety and frustration over the uncontrollable.
You may also recognize this lesson in the famed Serenity Prayer which reads:
”God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”
In daily life, this lesson is a game-changer. Take, for instance, a common situation like dealing with a difficult coworker. You cannot control their behavior, but you can control your response. Rather than letting anger or frustration take over, Stoicism teaches you to stay calm and focus on how you can handle the situation constructively. By practicing this mindset, you gain more emotional resilience and reduce stress.
Takeaway: The next time you're in a stressful situation, ask yourself: "Is this something I can control?" If the answer is no, let it go. If the answer is yes, focus your energy on how you can positively respond. This shift in focus is the essence of practical philosophy.
2. Epicureanism: Find Joy in Simple Pleasures
Epicurus, the ancient Greek philosopher, had a surprisingly modern take on happiness. He believed that true contentment comes not from wealth or luxury, but from simple, everyday pleasures. He taught that chasing after material success or status often leads to dissatisfaction because such desires are insatiable. Instead, Epicurus advised seeking joy in life's small, consistent pleasures: good company, meaningful conversation, a quiet moment in nature.
In our modern American culture, driven by consumerism, Epicurus's lesson is a breath of fresh air. Applying this to our lives means appreciating what we already have rather than constantly yearning for more. Whether it's savoring a morning drink, spending time with a friend, or reading a good book, finding joy in small moments can lead to a more balanced and satisfying life.
Takeaway: Make it a daily practice to pause and appreciate the simple pleasures in your life. Gratitude for these moments grounds us and reminds us that happiness doesn’t come from constant achievement, but from living in the present—a key aspect of practical philosophy.
3. Aristotle’s Golden Mean: Balance is Key
Aristotle’s idea of the "Golden Mean" teaches that virtue lies in finding balance between extremes. According to Aristotle, any quality—whether it’s courage, ambition, or generosity—can become a vice if taken to excess or practiced too little. True virtue, and by extension happiness, comes from finding a healthy middle ground.
In today’s fast-paced world, where we often swing between extremes like overwork and burnout, the Golden Mean offers a helpful guide. For example, in your career, working hard is essential, but overworking can lead to exhaustion and stress. On the other hand, avoiding challenges leads to stagnation. Finding balance in work, relationships, and self-care creates a sustainable and fulfilling life.
Takeaway: Reflect on areas of your life where you might be leaning too far toward an extreme. Could you benefit from more balance between work and leisure? Practical philosophy is about living moderately, understanding that fulfillment comes from pursuing the right amount of effort and rest.
In Conclusion
Practical philosophy, rooted in ancient wisdom, offers us valuable tools for navigating modern life. The Stoics remind us to focus on what we can control, freeing ourselves from unnecessary stress. Epicurus teaches us to find joy in the small, everyday moments, shifting our pursuit of happiness away from material desires. Aristotle’s Golden Mean helps us cultivate balance, ensuring that we neither overextend ourselves nor fall into complacency.
These three ancient lessons—control, simplicity, and balance—are as relevant today as they were centuries ago. By integrating them into our daily routines, we can improve our mental well-being, enhance our relationships, and live more fulfilling lives. So the next time life gets overwhelming, take a cue from practical philosophy and apply these timeless teachings to find your path forward.
