Why do we need a philosophy of life, and how can it help us find more meaning and freedom? This isn’t a post to turn you into a Stoic, but to inspire you to discover your own philosophy of life. Maybe that’s Stoicism, perhaps something else, or maybe a mix that fits you best. What matters is that you start the journey and begin your own discovery.
Life is difficult, that much is certain. We all face struggles, doubts, and moments when we feel lost. That’s exactly why we need a philosophy of life. It gives us direction when things fall apart, strength when we feel weak, and clarity when the world seems confusing. A philosophy of life is not something abstract or academic; it’s a compass that helps us steer through the storms of existence.
Seneca understood this long ago when he wrote:
“What is the need to weep at parts of life? All life is worthy of our tears: fresh problems will press upon you before you have done with the old ones.”
Seneca, Consolation to Marcia, 11
Philosophy helps us face what is difficult and make sense of it. In this post, I’d like to share what philosophy means to me, why we all need one, and how you can start creating your own. At the end of the post, you can find some practice that can help you along the way.
When Life Gives You a Nudge or a Slap
My journey began a few years ago, during a time when I felt completely lost. I didn’t know what to do or where to go. In those moments of confusion, the mind becomes vulnerable, open to whatever influence reaches it first. And not all influences lead us in the right direction. Sometimes we need a small nudge from fortune, or even a slap in the face, to wake us up.
Check out our Stoic Reading List for Beginners: From Aurelius to Robertson
For me, that wake-up came through books. A close friend introduced me to reading seriously for the first time. I wasn’t an avid reader before, but the right titles at the right moment changed everything. They opened my eyes to new ways of thinking and helped me see that others had wrestled with the same questions I was asking. That realization made all the difference.
Discovering Stoicism
Among the many ideas I came across, Stoicism stood out immediately. It was direct, practical, and used common sense. The Stoics spoke in a language I understood, simple, honest, and focused on taking responsibility.
Books, long conversations, and even YouTube lectures helped me see how philosophy could be lived, not just studied. Over time, Stoicism stopped being something I was learning about and became something I was practicing.
The first lesson that truly changed me was the dichotomy of control, understanding what is up to us and what isn’t. Once we accept that our judgments and actions are our own responsibility, a new kind of freedom begins.
Freedom Begins in the Mind
The Stoics remind us that true freedom is found within, not in possessions, money, or status. As Seneca told Lucilius:
“How can you wonder your travels do you no good, when you carry yourself around with you? You are saddled with the very thing that drove you away.”
Seneca, Letters from a Stoic, XXVIII
It isn’t travel or change of scenery that brings peace, but a change of mind. I’ve spent years living and working abroad, often moving when things felt too comfortable. Eventually, Stoicism helped me see that it doesn’t matter where I am; what matters is how I live and what I value.
Freedom isn’t about escape. It’s about how we choose to respond.
Finding Your Own Philosophy of Life
Stoicism feels natural to me because it aligns with my perspective on the world. But not everyone will connect with the same philosophy, and that’s fine. What matters is finding one that speaks to you.
Finding your philosophy of life is personal work. It takes honesty, curiosity, and time. Read widely. Reflect deeply. Question your assumptions. You’ll know when it feels right. It won’t solve everything, but it will give you direction and the strength to keep moving forward with purpose. One important reminder: this isn’t an easy or comfortable journey, but the rewards will be long-lasting and full of peace of mind.
Stoic Practice: Defining Your Philosophy of Life
- Reflect daily: ask yourself what guided your decisions today: impulse or principle?
- List your values: write down what truly matters to you, then check if your actions match those values.
- Study the wise: read and listen to people whose ideas resonate with you.
- Simplify: let go of what doesn’t serve your peace or growth.
- Live it: philosophy is practice. Apply one small insight every day.
FAQ: Philosophy of Life and Stoicism
Why do we need a philosophy of life?
Because without one, we drift. A philosophy of life gives us structure, clarity, and meaning, especially in difficult times.
Can my philosophy change over time?
Yes. As we grow, our understanding changes. A good philosophy adapts but keeps its core values.
Why Stoicism?
Stoicism offers a practical path to living well, focusing on virtue, control, and inner freedom. It teaches resilience without denial and compassion without weakness.
Do I need to read ancient texts?
Not necessarily. Start with what’s accessible: podcasts, modern interpretations, or reflections. What matters is applying the lessons, not mastering the language.
Philosophy is not about abstract theories; it’s about learning how to live. The Stoics taught that freedom and peace begin in the mind. Once we see this clearly, life becomes lighter, clearer, and more meaningful.
Finding your philosophy of life is not an endpoint; it’s an ongoing practice. Begin where you are, and let the journey itself shape you.
Want to explore more Stoic practices?
Book a free consultation with one of our Stoic Coaches to get support. Or read more about How to Practice Stoicism here. Listen to the Via Stoica Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube.
Author Bio
Benny Voncken is the co-founder of Via Stoica, where he helps people apply Stoic philosophy to modern life. He is a Stoic coach, writer, and podcast host of The Via Stoica Podcast. With almost a decade of teaching experience and daily Stoic practice, Benny creates resources, workshops, and reflections that make ancient wisdom practical today.
12 Comments
Unwanted Life · 25/07/2022 at 3:28 pm
It seems you’ve had quite a journey to get to where you are now. I got into the social sciences because I wanted to understand people and society better, and with that I mixed in some philosophy. But I think for me the philosophy I follow was suggested by Wil Wheaton: Don’t be a dick.
A simple philosophy that makes life better for everyone. I also try to help people where I can, which is how I got into mental health and addiction. I want to help people avoid ruining there lives with poor coping behaviours and help them get back on track
Benny Voncken · 06/08/2022 at 4:40 pm
The work you do and content you create is awesome. Thanks for all that you do. And any philosophy by Wesley Crusher is one I can respect. It sounds so simple, that’s why it works. Being a good person can be brought down to that simple phrase.
AmethystAP · 25/07/2022 at 9:10 pm
I’ve only recently started to explore Stoicism. I’m currently reading the Daily Stoic by Ryan Holiday. It has many interesting insights and perspectives. I can understand and respect a lot of the views but I haven’t been actively applying it to my life. I agree that having a philosophy of life is important. It helps guide your actions. This year has been one of self exploration for me. Its been tough, lonely and scary at times
Sometimes diving deeper into yourself is scary. You don’t know what you will find or who might be left behind. It’s scary venturing into new territory. It’s definitely a work in progress.
I really enjoy reading about your experience and would appreciate your tips. What other philosophies are there to explore? Can you recommend me some books, podcasts or videos? Feel free to reach out on Twitter @thelilcommunity too. Thanks for another interesting post.
Benny Voncken · 06/08/2022 at 4:42 pm
Thank you for sharing what you’ve been going through. It can definitely be a lonely and scary journey, but it can lead to beautiful things too. I’m also interested in Wu Wei, or Absurism. Anything really. One YouTube channel you could watch is the School of Life. They make nice brief videos to introduce many different ideas. Good luck on your journey.
Ron · 26/07/2022 at 12:17 pm
Such an interesting read. We need a philosophy of life, it gives you that framework, guides your actions and gives your directions. Mine is love, love for everyone. My philosophy goes hand in hand with my faith which says he who doesn’t love doesn’t know God because God is love. Love not only helps others but for me too. Thanks for sharing about journey too.
Benny Voncken · 06/08/2022 at 4:44 pm
Thank you for your comment, Ron. I love your philosophy and many boil down to the simple principle of love. But people get there in different ways. Great to get your input.
Jade MumLifeandMe · 27/07/2022 at 12:29 am
This is a really interesting post Benny. I’ve never really studied philosophy in much detail. Some of the books I have read about spiritualism and the mind have referred to it – and I’m only actually learning more about it since reading your blog. I probably need to find one that works for me that I can apply to my life. I imagine it’s good to keep you on track, so the negative emotions don’t ever move over to the dark side. Thanks for sharing. Jade MumLifeandMe
Benny Voncken · 06/08/2022 at 4:46 pm
Thank you, Jade. I really appreciate your comment and that you enjoyed reading my post. Sometimes it’s not a matter of finding, but of feeling what works. Maybe you’ve already encountered something. Forming a great family and being a good parent sounds like a pretty awesome philosophy to me.
Vanessa · 28/07/2022 at 6:38 pm
Great change seems to come from the darkest moments of life as long as we take the path toward transformation and become alchemists. I’m glad you found this route and that you have been willing to share it with others. There is great nobility in that venture 😉
Benny Voncken · 06/08/2022 at 4:49 pm
Always great to receive such words from you, Vanessa. Sharing is a way to gain an even deeper sense of introspection. It makes one more vunerable and makes us be more honest. Thanks for your comment.
Philo Sofer · 17/11/2022 at 2:00 am
Here is my philosophy of life: http://philosofer123.wordpress.com
The document incorporates elements of Epicureanism, Stoicism and Buddhism, as well as modern philosophical arguments and my own original work.
Benny Voncken · 25/11/2022 at 6:57 am
Thank you for sharing your philosophy of life with us. It’s an interesting document, one which I’ll have to read a bit more indepth.