Marcus Aurelius: Equanimity, Resilience, & Mindfulness
"You have power over your mind – not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength."
-Macus Aurelius
Marcus Aurelius, born in 121 AD, was a Roman Emperor who reigned from 161 to 180 AD and is celebrated as one of the most influential Stoic philosophers. His rule was characterized by significant military campaigns and internal challenges, yet he remained deeply committed to Stoic principles. Known for his introspective and philosophical reflections, Marcus Aurelius left behind Meditations, a personal journal that offers profound insights into his thoughts on leadership, virtue, and resilience. Despite his status as an emperor, he approached his role with humility and a dedication to personal and moral improvement.
Why He's Interesting
Marcus Aurelius is one of the most intriguing figures in history because he was both a powerful Roman emperor and a devoted Stoic philosopher. Marcus Aurelius ascended to the throne as the last of the "Five Good Emperors" of Rome, ruling from 161 to 180 AD. What makes him particularly interesting is his dual identity: despite holding the highest position of power, he remained deeply committed to Stoic ideals, which emphasize humility, self-restraint, and the acceptance of fate. His personal writings, known today as Meditations, offer a rare glimpse into the mind of a ruler grappling with the immense pressures of leadership while striving to live a virtuous life. These reflections, originally intended for his own guidance, have since become one of the most cherished texts in Western philosophy.
A Memorable Story
The Antonine Plague, which began around 165 AD, was a devastating epidemic that swept through the Roman Empire, killing millions and causing widespread panic. As the emperor, Marcus Aurelius was responsible for managing the crisis, but instead of succumbing to despair or fear, he used the situation as a test of his Stoic principles. Rather than fleeing the city or isolating himself from his people, Marcus Aurelius stayed in Rome, overseeing relief efforts and ensuring that the empire continued to function. Despite the immense personal risk, he maintained his commitment to his duties, embodying the Stoic belief that one must face adversity with courage and resilience. This episode not only highlights his steadfastness as a leader but also his deep compassion and sense of responsibility toward his subjects, qualities that have made him a revered figure in history.
Stoic Practices and Rituals
One of his key rituals was daily self-reflection, where he would write in his journal about his thoughts, struggles, and observations. He also practiced mindfulness and meditation on his duties and virtues, striving to act in accordance with Stoic principles of wisdom, courage, justice, and temperance. Marcus Aurelius also followed a disciplined routine that included time for reflection and philosophical contemplation, which helped him manage stress and maintain a sense of inner peace despite the demands of ruling an empire.
Practical Philosophies Implement
Focus on the Present Moment: Marcus Aurelius frequently emphasized the importance of living in the present and not being distracted by past regrets or future anxieties. Practice mindfulness and concentrate on what can be controlled, let go of that that is out of your control.
Embrace Adversity as Opportunity: He viewed challenges and hardships as opportunities for growth and self-improvement, a common theme I write about on MindBodyDad. Adopt a growth mindset that sees obstacles as chances to practice virtue.
Practice Self-Reflection: Regularly assessing one’s actions, thoughts, and motives was crucial for Marcus Aurelius. This can come in the form of self-reflection or a more concrete version in journaling.
Maintain Equanimity: He advocated for emotional resilience and the ability to remain calm in the face of adversity. Develop strategies to manage emotions and respond to situations with composure.
Act with Integrity and Purpose: Living according to one’s principles and striving to act with moral integrity were central to his philosophy. Set clear ethical standards and consistently acting in accordance with them.
5 Best Quotes
"You have power over your mind – not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength."
"The impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way."
"If you are distressed by anything external, the pain is not due to the thing itself, but to your estimate of it; and this you have the power to revoke at any moment."
"It is not death that a man should fear, but he should fear never beginning to live."
"The best revenge is to be unlike him who performed the injustice."
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