There are several themes that I would like to highlight as we wrap up the re-read of How To Be A Stoic by Massimo Pigliucci. The first and perhaps the most important is the impact of an exceptional bookstore. I picked this book up at Literati Bookstore in Ann Arbor, MI. But for that small bit of serendipity, my life would have been different. Support your local bookstore and if you don’t have one, take an occasional road trip to go and touch, smell, and sample physical books.
The second theme is Epicitetus’s concept of the dichotomy of control. The idea is central to Stoicism. It is so important that the first line in the Enchiridion (The Handbook of Stoicism based on Epictetus’s Discourses) reads: “There are things which are within our power, and there are things which are beyond our power.”
Understanding the difference and putting aside those things that are beyond our control has a huge number of benefits. Just think of the energy you can save by not trying to change things you can’t. This simple concept has had a profound impact on my outlook and behavior. I am still nowhere near perfect making the distinction but working on it.
Third, the idea of practice and feedback. Regardless of whether you are adopting the Stoic, agile, or lean principles; practice until you can apply your chosen set of principles routinely to making life better. The level of fluency reduces the chance of backsliding.
As you practice, words and works need to be aligned. It is important to remember the words of Musonius Rufus (Stoic Philosopher): “Don’t expect to tell others what they should do when they know that you do what you shouldn’t.” When training leaders and practitioners I often use the phrase “you need to walk the talk” to put a more modern spin on the idea. The concept is the same. Pigliucci reinforces an approach for practicing in Chapter 14 (last week) by providing a framework for practicing Stoicism. My mother said practice makes perfect and mothers are always right 🙂
One final theme I’d like to highlight. Stoicism is a philosophy, not a religion. As a guide to behavior, applying the virtues and principles of Stoicism can be extremely useful in leading and guiding change. Whether you are a coach, Scrum Master, team lead, or project manager — your role is to help people make proper choices and lead the best life possible. Pigliucci clearly and pragmatically describes this philosophy so that you, the reader, can decide how it fits your work and world.
It has been approximately a year since I first read How To Be A Stoic. I am now up to 2.5 times and have read several other texts on Stoicism. Am I a Stoic? I am not sure, but I can say confidently that I behave and act differently (albeit inconsistently) and I am a learner.
Next week we begin ….. (still working on it)
Catch on all of the entries in the re-read of How To Be A Stoic by Massimo Pigliucci (buy a copy and read along)
Week 1: Logistics and Opening Thoughts
Week 2: The Unstraightforward Path
Week 3: A Roadmap For The Journey
Week 4: Some Things Are In Our Power, Others Are Not
Week 5: Live According To Nature
Week 6: Playing Ball With Socrates
Week 7: God or Atoms?
Week 8: It’s All About Character
Week 9: A Very Crucial Word
Week 10: The Role of Role Models
Week 11: Disability And Mental Illness
Week 12: On Death And Suicide
Week 13: How To Deal With Anger, Anxiety, And Loneliness
Week 14: Love and Friendship
Week 15: Practical Spiritual Excercise
