“Whatever fate one man can strike can come to all of us alike.”
Publius, from Seneca’s Consolation to Marcia, 9
When life delivers a heavy blow, it often feels personal, as if the universe has singled us out. But this quote, cited by Seneca, reminds us that fate is not exclusive. It is indifferent, unpredictable, and universal. What happens to one can happen to any of us.
This is the foundation of the Stoic view on fate.
The Stoics didn’t teach us to deny pain. They taught us to expect it. Not in a pessimistic sense, but with clarity. To believe that hardship won’t happen to us is to set ourselves up for despair. Instead, they invite us to look at life as it is, and to meet it with a mind prepared.
Understanding that fate strikes us all does something subtle but powerful: it takes away the feeling of being cursed. It reminds us that even the wise, the kind, and the careful are touched by misfortune.
We Are Not the Victims of Fate
We are not the victims of fate, we are observers and parts of nature. Instead of asking, “Why me?” let’s change that around to ask, “Why not me?” This opens our minds up to things that happen to others and allows us to learn from their struggles. It increases the compassion we show to others, and we feel more connected to them. When we no longer feel singled out by fate, we begin to understand that we are all in the same boat.
You can read more about this in the post on Why me? But I would also recommend reading the full letter to Marcia that Seneca wrote. And let’s remember that if it can happen to someone, it can also happen to us. Don’t let that scare you away from living, but let it prepare you.
How to Live with a Stoic View on Fate
1. Accept what is shared
When difficulty arrives, remind yourself: This is not punishment. It is part of being human. You are not alone in this experience.
2. Practice premeditatio malorum
Take a moment in your day to imagine what could go wrong. Not to obsess, but to rehearse acceptance. This ancient Stoic practice builds emotional armor without making you cold.
3. Reconnect through reflection
Read Seneca, listen to others, or write down your thoughts. Fate can isolate, but Stoic philosophy reconnects us to timeless strength.
The Stoic view on fate is not about giving up. It is about showing up — grounded, ready, and resilient.
🔗 Want to explore more Stoic strategies? Book a free consultation with one of our Stoic Coaches or read more on the Seneca Quotes page. Or listen to the Via Stoica Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcast, or watch it on YouTube.
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