The Stoic Pocket Guide
Your instant-access companion for applying ancient Stoic wisdom to modern challenges. Four essential tools for emotional mastery and rational thinking.
"If it is not right, do not do it; if it is not true, do not say it."
— Marcus Aurelius
The Dichotomy of Control
The foundation of Stoic philosophy. Master this principle and you'll never waste energy on the uncontrollable again.
"Some things are within our power, while others are not. Within our power are opinion, motivation, desire, aversion, and whatever is of our own doing; not within our power are our body, our property, reputation, office, and whatever is not of our own doing."
— Epictetus, Enchiridion
WITHIN YOUR CONTROL
Focus 100% of your energy here. These are your true possessions.
- Your judgments & interpretations
How you perceive events
- Your desires & aversions
What you choose to want
- Your actions & responses
How you react to situations
- Your character & values
The person you choose to be
- Your effort & attention
Where you direct your focus
OUTSIDE YOUR CONTROL
Accept these with equanimity. Worrying here drains your power.
- Other people's opinions
Their thoughts depend on their biases
- External events & outcomes
Weather, traffic, the economy
- Your reputation & status
Determined by others' perceptions
- Your body & health (partially)
Genetics, illness, aging
- The past
What's done cannot be undone
Instant Application Protocol
When triggered, stop. Take one breath.
"Is this within my control or not?"
If controllable, take action. If not, release it.
Redirect energy to what you CAN influence.
Daily Mantra (Tap to Copy)
"I focus only on what I can control: my thoughts, my actions, my character. Everything else, I accept with equanimity."