Find Your Path and Live a Meaningful Life: 12 Questions Inspired by Stoicism

Have you ever felt lost or unsure of what direction to take in life? (what about last Monday, for example?)

You’re not alone.

Many of us struggle with the same questions, yearning for a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

In the video that inspired this blog post the creator, Ryan Holiday, offers 12 powerful questions inspired by Stoic philosophy that can help you find your path and live a meaningful life.

Let’s dive in.

1. Who are you spending time with?

The people you surround yourself with significantly impact your life. Are they lifting you up and inspiring you to be your best self, or are they dragging you down? Surround yourself with people who share your values and who will support you on your journey.

2. Is this in my control?

Epictetus, a famous Stoic philosopher, emphasized the importance of distinguishing between things within our control (our thoughts, actions, and choices) and things outside our control (external events and other people’s behavior). Focusing on what you can control empowers you and reduces unnecessary stress.

3. What does your ideal day look like?

If you don’t have a clear vision of your ideal life, it’s easy to get caught up in chasing external validation and societal expectations. Take time to envision your perfect day and use it as a guiding light for your decisions.

4. To be or to do?

This question challenges you to reflect on your motivations. Are you driven by a desire for external recognition and achievement, or are you more focused on personal growth and making a positive impact?

5. How are you measuring your life?

True success is not defined by external measures like wealth or fame. It’s about living a life that aligns with your values and makes a meaningful contribution to the world.

6. What am I missing by choosing to worry or be afraid?

Worry and fear can be paralyzing, preventing you from taking action and living your life to the fullest. When faced with these emotions, ask yourself what you’re choosing to miss out on by giving in to them.

7. Are you doing your job?

This seemingly simple question can be surprisingly profound. It encourages you to be present, accountable, and committed to fulfilling your responsibilities, big or small.

8. What is the most important thing to you?

Knowing your core values is crucial for making aligned decisions and living a life of integrity. Once you identify what truly matters to you, everything else becomes easier to prioritize.

9. Who is this for?

As a creator or entrepreneur, understanding your audience is essential. This question encourages you to consider who you’re serving and tailor your actions to meet their needs and interests.

10. Is this essential?

Marcus Aurelius, a Roman emperor and Stoic philosopher, urged us to focus on what truly matters and eliminate the inessential. This question helps you declutter your life and prioritize what truly deserves your time and energy.

11. Will this be a live time or a dead time?

This question, posed by Robert Greene, challenges you to be intentional with your time. Are you actively using each moment to grow and move forward, or are you passively letting time slip away?

12. Is this who I want to be?

Ultimately, the choices you make each day shape who you become.

Ask yourself if your actions are aligned with the person you aspire to be and the values you hold dear.

By reflecting on these thought-provoking questions, you can gain clarity, purpose, and direction in your life.

Remember, the answers lie within you. You have the power to create a meaningful life that aligns with your values and aspirations.

Here’s the video (by Ryan Holiday) that inspired me to create this blog post: