Stop Reacting, Start Living: 9 Ancient Hacks for a Calmer, Stronger You

Imagine this: you’re the most powerful man in the Roman Empire, and a deadly plague is ravaging your people. (easy to relate, I know)

Anxiety, fear, and despair would be natural, right?

But Marcus Aurelius, the emperor in question, chose a different path.

He turned inwards, seeking wisdom and forging principles that not only helped him navigate the crisis, but that have inspired millions for centuries.

These aren’t just dusty old philosophical musings. These are battle-tested tactics for living a better life, no matter what storms you face.

Let’s dive in.

1. You are never stuck. Even in the darkest moments, you have the power to choose your response. Take ownership of your thoughts and actions, and you’ll find the strength to move forward.

2. Take action. Don’t get paralyzed by analysis. Start small, take the first step, and build momentum. Every journey begins with a single step.

3. Know thyself. What truly troubles you? Where does your anxiety stem from? By understanding yourself, you can start to dismantle the negative forces holding you back.

4. Design your day for victory. Start your day with intention. Whether it’s journaling, meditation, or simply setting your priorities, create a morning routine that empowers you to tackle the day.

5. Be your own drill sergeant. Self-discipline is your superpower. Don’t waste energy trying to control others. Focus on mastering yourself, and watch your world transform.

6. People are mirrors. The world can be frustrating, but it’s also an opportunity to practice your stoicism. Use challenging interactions as opportunities to refine your character.

7. Live minimally. Not everything deserves your time and energy. Ruthlessly eliminate activities that don’t add value and focus on what truly matters. Ask yourself:

Is this essential?

8. Embrace what is. You can’t control the world, but you can control your response to it. Learn to accept and even find meaning in the inevitable challenges of life.

9. Remember, you will die. Memento Mori. This isn’t morbid, it’s liberating. By remembering your own mortality, you’re inspired to make the most of every precious moment.

These are just a taste of the wisdom Marcus Aurelius offers. His timeless principles can empower you to live a life of purpose, resilience, and joy, even in the face of adversity.

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