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The Stoic Paradox: Can We Achieve Happiness Without Enjoyment?
True happiness in a world that often prioritizes achievement over the well-being
The pursuit of happiness is THE universal human goal.
But the spectrum of its definition goes from the absence of negative emotions to the presence of positive emotions and everything in between.
Stoicism’s ancient (but trendy) philosophy posits that happiness can be achieved by exercising reason and self-control. And at the same time, it states that pursuing enjoyment may hinder our ability to achieve true happiness.
WHAT???
The Stoic Philosophy
Stoicism equals ancient Greece and philosophers like Epictetus, Seneca, and Marcus Aurelius. Well, and Ryan Holiday.
At its core, it is a philosophy of personal ethics that emphasizes the trifecta of:
- Reason
- Self-control
- Acceptance of fate
When it comes to personal happiness, Stoicism offers a viewpoint that sets it apart from more conventional ideas that revolve around the pursuit of pleasure or avoidance of pain. The philosophy suggests that genuine happiness can be attained by developing one’s inner strength and sense of purpose. This entails delving deep into oneself, reflecting on one’s beliefs, values, and experiences, and finding meaning and fulfillment in life, even in the face of adversity.
By cultivating inner strength, Stoics believe that individuals can gain a sense of control over their emotions and thoughts, which can lead to greater contentment and peace of mind. This involves training oneself to view life’s challenges as opportunities for growth and learning rather than as insurmountable obstacles. Through this process, Stoics aim to develop a “virtuous” character guided by wisdom, courage, justice, and self-control.
The Stoic Paradox of Enjoyment
While the stoic philosophy emphasizes the importance of self-control and the acceptance of fate, it may also lead to a paradox.
