DO YOU TOO SOMETIMES REGRET YOUR ACTIONS?

“For me, success is a state of mind. I feel like success isn’t about conquering something; it’s being happy with who you are.” ~ Britney Spears

You know what, if I could describe my life in one song title, then it would definitely be the legendary Britney Spears’, ’Oops!...I Did It Again.’ No, I’m not kidding here, I’m absolutely serious. I’ve had so many emotionally oops moments in my life that I think Britney surely wrote this song for me. There was even a point in my life when I just thought if the word, ‘EMOTIONAL FOOL’ had a face, mine would be it. But, not anymore. Things have changed and so have I. From an emotional fool girl, I have now become a secure woman who has full control over her emotions. Well, in the words of Taylor, the old me can’t come to the phone right now. Why? Oh, cause she’s dead.

To the ones wondering, no it is not a tale of magic or a tale of lucky syndrome but it is my desire to fix my emotional and mental health and my dedication to make it happen. Though I am the leading protagonist of my story, there have of course been certain important supporting characters who have played a vital role in aiding me to create my dream life. One of the most important characters that played an inevitable role in my character development journey is none other than the extraordinary Marcus Aurelius and his significant insights on emotional and intellectual development.

THE EMOTIONLESS MAN WHO TAUGHT TO HANDLE EMOTIONS

“Waste no more time arguing about what a good man should be. Be one.”

Come on! You need an introduction to this great stoic philosopher? You know what, it is okay because no one is judging you here, it is not important for everyone to know everything and everyone. To be honest here, I myself had no idea about this man till some time ago but the universe has its own way of making you closer to things and people who have the ability to change your life for the better.

Marcus Aurelius was an emotionless scholar and Roman Ruler. He was the greatest pillar of Stoic intellect and is known for composing ideologies that rise above time and is proven to be still relevant in the contemporary world. He is mostly famous for his book The Meditations which is a collection of his Stoic wisdom which goes deep into the understanding of the essential elements of the human life and offers guidance on dealing with difficult situations, finding meaning, and carrying out one’s responsibilities within the larger scheme of things.

Though personally I have learned a lot from about Marcus Aurelius and love everything about his idealism; today in this article I shall be delving into only three beliefs of Marcus’ which I believe are my topmost favorite and are the most relatable to me. These three thoughts of wisdom by Marcus though are ages old, but still are apt to the current conditions of human life and can be applied by anyone willing to change their life for better and to improve their life.

Hence, let us unload the significance of Marcus Aurelius' direction in this day and age, featuring the requirement for compassion and personal development for a satisfying life and figure out how to control our satisfaction by excelling at positive reasoning.

 “BE TOLERANT WITH OTHERS AND STRICT WITH YOURSELF."

MEANING OF RESISTANCE AND SELF-CONTROL

The above-stated immortal statement from Marcus Aurelius, embodies a significant insight that remains as pertinent to human civilization today as it was in old times. Here, Aurelius provides a code of conduct for individuals that strikes a balance between self-control and empathy for others. Now, let us investigate the profundity and contemporary pertinence of this straightforward yet strong remark.

The Substance of Resistance and Self-control at its center, Aurelius' recommendation requires adopting a dual philosophy in life: developing resilience towards others while rehearsing severe self-restraint. Here, resilience is defined as an active attempt to recognize, value, and forgive the shortcomings and differences of people rather than merely accepting them as they are. It’s tied in with perceiving that everybody, even ourselves, is a work underway, combating their own difficulties and constraints. On the other hand, self-control doesn't mean being harsh or punishing oneself. Rather, it's about refusing to let lethargy or intemperance, holding oneself accountable, and striving toward self-advancement.

IMPLICATIONS IN MODERN LIFE

Aurelius' views provide a much-needed perspective in today’s world which is growing more divided and impossible to bear day-by-day. Tolerance is an essential component of compassion and tranquility in society. It encourages a backdrop where various thoughts and convictions can coincide, prompting more extravagant and more comprehensive networks. Additionally, during a time of immediate pleasure and outside approval, the call to be severe with oneself is perpetually relevant. It serves as an incentive to put more effort into improving oneself on the inside as opposed to aiming for praise or contrasting oneself as well as other people.

So, how may this wisdom of Aurelius be applied in daily existence? Rehearsing resistance could mean effectively paying attention to other people, being available to various perspectives, and showing compassion. It includes acknowledging and attempting to overcome our own prejudices. It's tied in with getting a sense of ownership with one's activities and continually endeavoring to be a superior individual.

Marcus Aurelius' insight to be “tolerant with others and strict with yourself" is an immortal rule that advances equilibrium and development. By embracing resistance, we develop an additional merciful and grasping world. At the same time, by being severe with ourselves, we encourage individual honesty and versatility.

“THE HAPPINESS OF YOUR LIFE DEPENDS UPON THE QUALITY OF YOUR THOUGHTS”

IMPORTANCE OF SELF-AWARENESS

The above stated statement is a significant assertion credited to Marcus Aurelius. It exemplifies an immortal insight that resounds profoundly with the human experience. Furthermore, let us now explore the meaning and applications of this quote in our contemporary life, going deep into its substance.

The basis of Stoic Philosophy, Roman Emperor and stern scholar Marcus Aurelius highlighted here the need for inner tenacity and self-awareness. He is frequently linked to the philosophical school of stoicism which advocates for a day to day existence driven by ethicalness and reason, with a solid spotlight on the things inside our control. This statement mirrors the indifferent conviction that outer occasions don't influence our bliss however much our contemplations about them do.

RELEVANCE IN MODERN PSYCHOLOGY

This quotation still has relevance in modern psychology, particularly in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). The foundation of CBT is the idea that our thoughts have a big impact on our feelings and actions. Subsequently, developing reasonable and constructive thoughts can prompt a more satisfied and better existence. Improving the quality of our ideas requires us to be aware of them. This includes noticing our mental habits without passing judgment and grasping the triggers of negative reasoning. Mindfulness permits us to question and reinterpret our ideas in order to bring them into closer alignment with positivity and truth.

Micro and reliable practices are a good place to start when implementing this insight in day-to-day existence. Keeping an appreciation diary, rehearsing positive affirmations, and participating in introspective reflection are useful strategies for raising the caliber of our thoughts. It's tied in with making a psychological space where optimism is sustained and cynicism is recognized yet not allowed to foster. Although the notion of mastering our contentment via our ideas is liberating, it’s critical to recognize the difficulties.

Maintaining a positive mindset can be challenging when faced with psychological well-being issues, outer conditions, and life stressors. Hence, its’ imperative that we look for an offset and be delicate with ourselves during difficult stretches. The remark from Marcus Aurelius' serves as an immortal indication of the mental power we possess. We can impact our bliss and general life fulfillment by developing positive attitudes. In any case, it's vital to move toward this with equilibrium and authenticity, understanding that while our viewpoints have gigantic power, they are only one piece of the complicated woven artwork of human satisfaction.

“THE BEST ANSWER TO ANGER IS SILENCE.”

SILENCE AND ITS ADVANTAGES

This straightforward yet significant assertion is one of the insightful observations found in Marcus Aurelius’ meditations. It exemplifies a central perception of Stoic philosophy - the fundamental ability to keep up with serenity and clearness of insight in any event, when defied with the people who would do us harm.

Among the most harmful impulses, rage was considered by the Stoics to be the result of poor judgment and, if unrestrained, had the power to upset one’s spiritual equilibrium. We permit an unreasonable disruption of our inner serenity when we permit anger to fester within us, and we compromise the lofty principles of morality and discernment. With his trademark insight, Marcus Aurelius saw that angry outbursts are a sign that a person’s soul is out of balance with both the natural order of the universe and oneself.

Thus, the extreme mental fortitude of quietness is the Stoic remedy for anger’s distorted logic. When we choose not to respond with words or deeds, we exhibit unwavering fortitude and composure just when we are most tempted to give up on the castle of reason. By deliberately silencing ourselves, we make room for our temperature to stabilize and for our wisdom to realign to the radiance of righteousness.

SAYING NO TO RAGE

Silence epitomizes regality; it is not a type of inactive withdrawal yet a functioning exhibit of polished profound discipline. Instead of responding hastily out of the tumultuous emotions that follow an attack, it enables us to react from a position of insightful mindfulness. Instead of trying to blow up the hot demeanor of outrage with an arguing breeze contemplated judgment despite feelings of opposition and misfortune. This decision absolves us from taking part in the neverending blame-games that accompany rage and from absorbing its poisonous that can just stir up the fire further, this careful interruption allows the anger to starve for lack of complementary commitment.

Refusing to raise and non-coordinating peacefully with the powers of hysteria carries immense power. A calm soul that responds to wrath with a stately quietness demonstrates ethical mental fortitude - the ability to cling to impacts. Rather we are protecting the internal fortification where our opportunity genuinely lives.

Marcus Aurelius effectively conveys the higher calling of Stoicism when he advises his followers to face wrath with patient, careful quiet. This involves meeting that which is impulsive or disgraceful in our kindred people with illuminated non-opposition and moving forward with ethicalness and generosity as our aides. Because preserving equilibrium between tumultuous occurrences and our assessments of them is highly valued. It is only from this state of serene awareness that positive action can arise.

AT LEAST SOMETHING IS BETTER THAN NOTHING

“Make the mind tougher by exposing it to adversity.”~ ROBERT GREENE

Ending on an extremely personal note. This article is all about the philosophy of Marcus Aurelius and how it healed me and helped me in becoming a better me. Thus, if at any point you feel like this article is full of absurdity and you are not able to relate with the beliefs written here as a whole then it is completely satisfactory on your part. But somehow if you find even one belief also to be relevant to your personal life then try practicing it without thinking twice and cling to it your entire life. You know why? Because of the simple fact that no matter what your financial status is, no matter what your educational status is, you will never be able to conquer your fears and outcome them if you are not an emotionally and intellectually intelligent person. Therefore, now is the time to focus on your inner serenity and to find the peace within. Bidding adieu with a poem written by me,

In Satya Yuga, there was Narasimha for Hiranyakashipu;
In Treta Yuga, there was Rama for Raavana;
In Dwapara Yuga, there were Pandavas for Kauravas;
But in Kalyuga, there is no Kalki for Kali;
Both Kalki and Kali lives within ourselves;
Only time and conscience will decide who shall take over whom.
~ Rini 

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