What is Oikeiōsis (οἰκείωσις)? Oikeiōsis (οἰκείωσις) is a Stoic concept meaning “self-appropriation”, the natural process by which a rational being recognizes itself as its own and gradually expands concern from the self to others, forming the foundation of Stoic ethics. 1. Why Oikeiōsis Still Matters In a world full of Read more
“First say to yourself, what manner of man you want to be; when you have settled this, act upon it in all you do.” Epictetus, Discourses, Book 3, Chapter 23.1 We spend so much of our lives trying to do more. Accomplish more. Achieve more. But the Stoics invite us Read more
What is within our control? This simple question lies at the heart of Stoic philosophy, and no Stoic addressed it more directly than Epictetus. A former slave turned philosopher, Epictetus taught that the key to peace and freedom lies in focusing only on what we can control and letting go Read more
“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 Read more
“Enable my mind to adapt itself to whatever comes to pass.” Epictetus, The Discourses, Book 2, Chapter 2.21 Life rarely follows the script we hoped for. That’s why we need a Stoic mindset for unexpected events. Plans fall through. People change. Unexpected events knock us off balance. But Epictetus offers Read more
“The best revenge is not to be like that” Marcus Aurelius, Meditations, Book 6.6 When someone hurts us, the instinct to get back at them can feel almost automatic. A sharp comment, a betrayal, a public humiliation, and our ego wants to fire back, to even the score. But Marcus Read more
“The first essential is not to become angry, the second to cease being angry, the third to cure also anger in other.” Seneca, On Anger, Book 3, Section 5 Anger is one of the most reactive emotions we face. It burns quickly, clouds our judgment, and often causes more damage Read more
“What harm is there while you are kissing your child to say softly, ‘Tomorrow you will die’.” Epictetus, The Discourses, Book 3, Chapter 24.87 Facing the Fragility of Life How do we practice the Stoic idea of Memento Mori with our loved ones? This quote from Epictetus is a stark Read more
“Sometimes even to live is an act of courage.” Seneca, Letters to Lucilius, Letter 78 The Courage to Keep Going How do we find Stoic courage in everyday life? Seneca’s words remind us that courage is not just for battlefields or heroic deeds. Sometimes, just getting out of bed, showing Read more
How much of your life have you let slip through your fingers without even realizing it? Here are ten quotes by Seneca on Time. Seneca, the Stoic philosopher, warned us about one of humanity’s greatest mistakes: wasting time. In a world full of distractions, endless scrolling, and busy schedules, we Read more