Photo credit: Suraphat Nuea-On
Yes, it feels like the whole world is on fire because in some places that’s literally true. Couple unchecked climate change with economic collapse and the open embrace of fascism here in the States and abroad, and it can all feel like the end times. But it’s not. In fact, the way to fortify yourself from feeling powerless in the midst of chaos is by focusing on the things that are actually in your control.
Stoic philosopher Epictetus noted: “Happiness and freedom begin with a clear understanding of one principle. Some things are in your control. And some things are not.” I keep coming back to this because I need the reminder myself. It’s how I deal with the frustrations that inevitably arise over stalled work projects, or people in my life making choices that I might disagree with.
The good news is this: If you stop and think about it, there’s a lot that actually is under your control. For example, who are the people who depend on you, and how can you show up better for them? What can you create without needing approval from other people? Sometimes it’s about being brave enough to claim what’s been yours all along. Are you clear about where you’re spending your time? For example, I could spend a little less time on video games and more on producing this newsletter regularly.
Putting good into the world is something we all can do. What do I mean? Not only is it the golden rule stuff, it’s also the idea of trying to make the world a little better than we find it each day. What can we can do to improve conditions in the communities we’re part of? First, it’s being clear about your own standards of behavior. The Stoics believed in four key virtues: Courage (bravery), Justice (doing what’s right), Wisdom (truth and understanding) and Temperance (moderation). And while those virtues are about comporting ourselves as individuals, they also believed in our obligation to the common good. It’s not enough to only focus on yourself or your family. We all know it’s showing up for others that often unlocks levels of confidence and commitment that we don’t normally give ourselves. Acting selflessly–about the people, institutions, and issues we care about–is a way to improve the people and things around you.
This, then, is how you put some good into the world: Have clarity about what’s under your control. Keep your guiding principles front and center. And, unless you want to opt-out of society and live alone in the woods, remember that we all have obligations to each other.
Let’s go!
