Five Tips From Marcus Aurelius To Achieve A Good Life

Marcus Aurelius’ advice on a good life comes from his well-known and immortal work, Meditations . In fact, it does not matter that many centuries have passed since this famous Roman emperor wrote it – in Greek. For today, his words are still a reference as a guide to a good life, sensible ethics and inner peace.

It is difficult to understand that the set of lessons Aurelius captured in his book was only intended to be an exercise in introspection for himself. He expressed his thoughts in short passages that contain the essence of Stoicism. In fact, he integrated this philosophy into his own life. In addition, almost without realizing it, Marcus Aurelius found himself considered an expert in psychology.

Known as the last of the five good emperors, people described Marcus Aurelius as a kind man. In addition, he was a faithful servant in Rome, as well as a great philosopher.

“If it’s not right, do not do it; if it’s not true, do not say it. ”

-Marcus Aurelius –

Marcus Aurelius on achieving a good life

Aurelius believed that philosophy should not just be a theory. It should be practiced. For this reason, he shared in Meditations some basic guidelines for action and behavior that are inspiring to say the least. In fact, his inspirational advice goes far beyond stoicism.

On the pages we find influences of Eastern Buddhism together with the thoughts of Heraclitus and the cynics. Aurelius was a wise man and above all curious. Consequently, this makes his knowledge and attitude to his lessons timeless. His thoughts do not sound strange to us because he used a sense of logic and inspiration that can lead any soul, no matter what time they live.

At the same time, he captivates us with his philosophy of peace of mind. In fact, this state of pure peace, known as ataraxia, which was identified by the Democrats, the Stoics and the Epicureans, is also present in Meditations . It refers to a calm state of mind where no fears, desires or anxieties are perceived. Just balance.

Marcus Aurelius’ tips for a good life are still relevant today. Let’s take a look at five of them.

1. A good life requires that you learn to handle criticism

“You have power over your mind – not external events. Realize this and you will find strength ”.

One of Marcus Aurelius’ tips for a good life is about learning to handle criticism. Undoubtedly, in his public position, he had to deal with much of it. In addition, many of the passages were written in M editions during breaks during battles.

In many ways, Aurelius was a true guru in the art of managing conflicts, whether they involved war or everyday life. When it comes to criticism, he often repeated a particular mantra. It was the idea that what happens outside gets power only when you give it presence in your mind. What is out there is only perspective, not truths. You choose what to value.

2. Things you should not be afraid of

“It is not death that a man should fear, he should be afraid of never starting to live.”

Aurelius was governed by the premises of Stoicism. This philosophical school, founded by Zeno of Kition, praised the domain of the mind, behavior and passions that disturb the inner peace. They believed that fear is the element that disturbs everything. It weakens us and makes us vulnerable.

Thus, one of Marcus Aurelius’ tips for a good life was to learn to deal with this invalid feeling. To do this, he recommended a series of steps:

• Do not be afraid to ask for help. “Not ashamed to need help. As a soldier storming a wall, you have a mission to accomplish. And if you’ve been hurt and need a friend to pull you up? So what?”
• There is no reason to fear death. In fact, what should cause the most distress is not daring to live life to the fullest.

Create a harmonious life for yourself

“Nowhere can man find a more peaceful and carefree refuge than in his own soul.”

As we mentioned earlier, a satisfying life for the Stoics meant a peaceful and harmonious life. Psychologist research that reminds us of a recurring theme in the advice of Marcus Aurelius.

In fact, Alexander claims that his teachings promoted the idea of ​​the self-sufficient self. This concept means that it is only when you attain the virtue of being a master of your own thoughts and develop this kind of psychological comfort that serenity and peace of mind arrive. No matter what surrounds you, if your mind is balanced you will find the best refuge there.

4. Simplify your existence

“It takes very little to create a happy life, everything is within yourself, in your way of thinking.”

Worry as little as you can, focus your gaze on the foundations of existence in order to survive and be happy… Marcus Aurelius’ advice is an ode to minimalism. An escape from materialism and a focus on your inner well-being.

5. Authentic happiness and the good life

“Live a good life. If there are gods and they are justice, they will not care how pious you have been, but welcome you based on the virtues you have lived by. If there be gods, but unrighteousness, do not worship them. ”

The good life of the philosophical emperor began with simplicity and inner peace.

Happiness is being virtuous, finding self-control and shaping as simple an existence as possible. That’s the key.