Stoicism isn’t about being cold or emotionless—it’s about living with clarity, courage, and resilience. These nine habits, inspired by ancient Stoic wisdom, can help you stay grounded when life gets tough.

1. Control the controllable
   Marcus Aurelius reminded himself daily: “You have power over your mind—not outside events.” Focus on what you can change—your actions, words, and thoughts—and let go of the rest. Worrying about the weather, other people’s opinions, or the past only drains your energy.

2. Write every day
   Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius all used writing to strengthen their thinking. Journaling can help you reflect on mistakes, express gratitude, and set intentions. Even 5 minutes of daily writing helps clear mental clutter and prepare you for challenges ahead.

3. Practice discomfort
   Seneca advised spending a few days living simply—rough clothes, basic food—so you can say, “Is this what I feared?” This builds resilience. If you sometimes go without luxuries, sudden hardships won’t shake you as much.

4. Flip problems into opportunities
   Marcus Aurelius wrote, “The impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way.” When faced with a challenge, ask: “How can this help me grow?” A rude colleague becomes a lesson in patience; a failed project becomes training for persistence.

5. Remember it’s all temporary
   Seneca warned against getting attached to things that can be taken away—wealth, fame, possessions. Everything changes. This isn’t meant to be depressing; it’s a reminder to appreciate what you have while you have it.

6. Zoom out for perspective
   The Stoics practiced the “view from above”—imagining yourself looking down from high above the Earth. Your current worries shrink when you see how small they are in the grand flow of time. It also helps you remember you’re part of something larger than yourself.

7. Think of death daily
   Memento mori—remember you will die—wasn’t morbid to the Stoics; it was motivating. Knowing life is short pushes you to live fully, say what needs to be said, and spend time on what truly matters.

8. Expect challenges
   Epictetus advised mentally preparing for the day ahead: “When you kiss your child, say to yourself—he may die tomorrow.” This isn’t pessimism; it’s readiness. If you expect obstacles, you won’t be blindsided by them.

9. Love your fate
   Amor fati—love your fate—means embracing everything that happens as part of your path, even the painful parts. The Stoic sees life as a teacher, and every event—good or bad—as part of the lesson.