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This Is What We Use This For | Build Up, Don’t Tear Down

The Daily Stoic

Mon Oct 23 2023



Terribly Famous podcast:

  • Season focuses on Zayn Malik's journey from a shy lad in Bradford to being part of the world's biggest boy band, One Direction
  • Explores why Zayn decided to leave the band

Brydon & podcast:

  • Hosted by Rob Brydon
  • Currently in its third series
  • Features interviews with notable figures such as Sir Michael Palin, comedy duo Egg, and Robbie Williams

Introduction to Daily Stoic Podcast:

  • Provides daily meditations inspired by ancient Stoics
  • Uses stories from history, current events, and literature to illustrate Stoic principles for personal growth and improvement

Misconceptions about Stoicism:

  • Stoic philosophy is often misunderstood as emotionless or overly abstract
  • In reality, stoic thinkers like Marcus Aurelius and Seneca expressed their emotions through crying and heartfelt letters respectively
  • The stoics were not only emotional beings but also cared about their neighbors, raised children, and fought for change

Accessibility of Stoicism:

  • Stoic writings are accessible to readers at every level of understanding
  • Modern academic philosophers may not appreciate stoicism due to its lack of abstraction compared to other philosophies

Stoicism 101 Course:

  • A live course that aims to dispel misconceptions about stoicism and teach practical tools for living well and doing good
  • Covers topics such as what a stoic does/doesn't do, secrets to success/resilience/productivity, what sets stoicism apart from other philosophies, and how to live one's best life
  • Includes live video sessions with the instructor for questions and discussions

Importance of building up others:

  • Tearing people down is counterproductive; self-confidence is crucial for success
  • Leaders should focus on building up others rather than regulating or keeping them in line
  • Marcus Aurelius valued community-mindedness, modesty, preparedness, and tolerance of others

Leadership approach according to Stoicism:

  • The art of leadership is getting people to do things because they want to do them
  • Leaders should aim to make people better versions of themselves rather than breaking them down
  • Patience, kindness, understanding, and empathy are important virtues for leaders