Always Ask Yourself This Question

Navigate The Day

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In this episode of Navigate the Day, I dive deep into the question that Marcus Aurelius urged us to ask ourselves: Is this one of the unnecessary things? The quote reminds us that true peace of mind isn’t found in keeping busy with trivial tasks but in focusing on what truly matters and doing it well. It’s about stripping away the excess, not just in our actions but in our thoughts, to create a life filled with purpose and tranquility.

Reflecting on my week, I realize how often I let unnecessary emotions and irrational thoughts steer my actions. Despite practicing Stoic rituals like meditation and journaling, I find myself repeatedly falling short of embodying Stoic principles in the heat of the moment. It’s frustrating, but it’s also a wake-up call that I need to focus more on what’s essential—reacting with reason, not emotion, and prioritizing what truly matters.

This episode is a candid exploration of my struggles with implementing Stoic philosophy in daily life, especially when it comes to maintaining calm and rational responses in challenging situations. Whether it's dealing with difficult people, like my mother, or navigating everyday setbacks, I’m learning that the key to progress is constantly questioning what is truly necessary and letting go of the rest.

Join me as I share my journey of trying to align my actions with my values, turning adversities into advantages, and striving to live a life that is not just less chaotic, but more meaningful. This is about finding peace not by doing less, but by doing what matters most—and doing it well.

Thank you for listening and joining me on my journey of self-discovery!
Mediations and Prompts influenced from The Daily Stoic Books

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