Trying to Stay Chill: How Stoicism Helps Me Handle Life

One day, I saw this quote:

“You suffer more in imagination than in reality.”

And I was like… yep. That’s me overthinking everything at 2 a.m.

So I looked it up. Turns out, it’s from a guy named Seneca, a Stoic philosopher. That was the start of me getting into Stoicism in everyday life. Not super deep, not super serious. But just enough to help me deal with the everyday stress.

What Is Stoicism and Why It Matters in Everyday Life

Stoicism is an old philosophy, but it’s simple at the core:

Focus on what you can control. Let go of what you can’t. Don’t let your emotions run your whole life.

It’s not about being cold or pretending nothing hurts. It’s just about learning how to respond better, not overreact, not panic, not spiral.

And honestly, that’s what I’ve been needing lately.

These are simple ways I use Stoicism in everyday life, no strict rules, just small habits that help me stress less.

How I Practice Stoicism in Everyday Life (6 Simple Ways)

1. I don’t argue online (even when I really want to).

Sometimes I see a take that’s completely wrong, and part of me wants to respond.

But I just scroll. Not because they’re right, but because I don’t need the stress.

My peace is worth more than winning an argument with a stranger.

2. I try to let go of things I can’t control.

If something goes wrong, a delay, a cancellation, a plan that doesn’t work out, I remind myself:

Can I fix it? If yes, do it.

If no, accept it.

That mindset saves me so much energy.

3. I say no without explaining too much.

I used to feel guilty turning things down. Now I just say,

“Hey, I won’t make it today.” That’s it.

No fake excuses, no overthinking. Just honest boundaries.

4. I post what I want, not what will get the most likes.

It’s easy to feel like you’re not doing enough online. But I try not to chase numbers.

If I like something, I post it. Even if it flops.

Because what matters more is that I’m being real.

5. I don’t get too upset when plans fall through.

Sometimes things don’t go the way I imagined.

But instead of saying “this day is ruined,” I try to adjust.

It’s not always easy, but it’s better than letting one moment ruin everything.

6. I pause before reacting.

When something bad happens or someone says something rude, I try not to respond right away.

I ask: Is this even worth reacting to? What would help right now?

That pause, just a few seconds, changes everything.

I’m Not Perfect, But Stoicism Helps Me Stress Less

I’m not living like a monk or reading ancient books every day. I still complain, scroll too much, and get annoyed over small stuff.

But Stoicism helps me try.

Try to stay calm. Try to think before reacting. Try to focus on what really matters.

So yeah, I’m not fully “zen,” but I’m trying to be less chaotic inside.

I may not be an expert, but Stoicism in everyday life is my go-to when things get chaotic.

And honestly? That already makes a big difference.

How about you?

Ever tried Stoicism without realizing it? Or is there something else that helps you deal with life when it gets too much? Let’s talk.

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