The Pocket Stoic

To counter the daily anxieties and emotional swings caused by modern life's barrage of stimuli, many have turned to a distant philosophy: Stoicism. Over 100,000 people now engage in online communities for modern Stoics, with annual conferences and workshops for those seeking to embrace this philosophy. But what is Stoicism, and why does it resonate today? The popular image of the unfeeling Stoic overlooks the profound insights from Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius, the three great Roman Stoics. Their works address timeless issues faced by anyone navigating life, focusing on how to live well—understanding your place in the world, coping with adversity, managing emotions, and interacting with others. Stoicism teaches that much of our suffering stems from our thoughts and that we can train our minds to perceive the world differently. By recognizing what we can control and transforming adversity into opportunity, we can lead more fulfilling lives. This concise and accessible guide offers an introduction to the lives and thoughts of key Stoics, serving as a practical resource for incorporating Stoic practices into daily life.