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In this episode, I sit down with Donald Robertson, renowned author, psychotherapist, and expert in ancient philosophy, to dive deep into the life, methods, and lessons of Socrates. Donald brings his unique perspective, blending cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and Stoic philosophy, to explore why Socrates remains a pivotal figure in philosophy—and what we can learn from his methods today.
Donald’s new book, How to Think Like Socrates, is out now!
📖 Get the book here
🎧 Listen to the audiobook here
🎙️ Episode Highlights1. Socrates’ Legacy
Socrates shifted philosophy from nature to ethics, asking: How should we live?2. The Socratic Method
Mastering the art of questioning, he emphasized critical thinking over rigid beliefs.His two-column technique parallels modern CBT tools.3. Emotional Resilience
Socrates taught that setbacks, like failure or loss, can lead to growth and wisdom.“Injustice harms the perpetrator more than the victim.”4. Xanthippe: His Wife
Known for her temper, Socrates viewed her as a challenge to cultivate patience:
“Xanthippe’s thunder is always followed by rain.”5. Ancient Self-Help Critique
Socrates critiqued passive self-help, urging active engagement and self-reflection.6. Philosophy in Action
His life, trial, and death embodied the examined life.📖 Get Donald Robertson’s new book:
How to Think Like SocratesAudiobookGet immediate access to premium Stoic meditation courses, exclusive community, straight-to-the-point lessons, and Q&As created by Jon Brooks.
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In this episode of our series on crafting a Stoic daily routine, we focus on how to build effective work rituals. These rituals are designed to help you find deeper meaning and purpose in whatever form of work you do—whether it’s a formal job, creative endeavor, or a personal project like martial arts. Here are the key highlights from the episode:
Work doesn’t have to be limited to a traditional career. We explore how to recognize anything you spend time on and take seriously as your “work”—whether it's drawing, studying martial arts, or any passion project.
Episode Notes:
1. Broadening the Definition of Work2. Pre-Work Ritual: Six Key Points
Inspired by John Yates' "The Mind Illuminated," we dive into a six-step preparation ritual that helps set the stage for a successful work session.Key elements include defining your motivation, setting specific goals, acknowledging expectations, committing to diligence, addressing potential distractions, and preparing your work environment.3. Finding Enjoyment in Your Work
We discuss the importance of enjoying the process rather than seeing work as a box to tick off your list. Finding ways to enjoy your work not only makes it more sustainable but also enriches the entire experience.4. The Power of a Performance Statement
Develop a performance statement as an affirmation to keep you on track. For example: “Every time I get distracted, I will make a note of the distraction and return to the task.” This simple tool helps reinforce positive behavior and mindfulness during work.5. Work as Meditation
Applying a meditative mindset to work helps you stay present and focused. Just like mindfulness meditation, when you lose focus, gently redirecting yourself back to the task at hand can transform your productivity and mindset.6. Post-Work Reflection
Reflecting on what went well after each work session is crucial. Focus on three positive outcomes to reinforce growth and keep yourself motivated.7. Working with Others: The EAR Acronym
Good communication during collaboration can be broken down into Empathy, Assertiveness, and Respect (EAR). This simple framework helps improve how you navigate work relationships and difficult dynamics.8. Premeditation of Adversity
Inspired by Marcus Aurelius, we explore the Stoic practice of **premeditating potential obstacles** to remain calm and composed during challenging moments at work. It’s not about being negative but about being prepared
John Yates' "The Mind Illuminated"** – The inspiration behind the six-point pre-work ritual.Three Pillars of Skillful Communication Cheat Sheet –
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In this episode, we dive into the power of a structured morning routine inspired by Stoic philosophy. We'll explore practical steps you can take to start your day with clarity, purpose, and resilience. From reflecting on Stoic quotes and mindful journaling to incorporating meditation and even cold exposure, this episode offers a comprehensive guide to building a morning routine that sets a positive tone for the rest of your day.
[02:15] Reflecting on a Stoic Quote: Start your day by reading and contemplating a Stoic quote. This simple practice helps align your mindset with Stoic principles right from the moment you wake up.[05:30] The Power of Stoic Journaling: Learn how to use journaling to cultivate gratitude, anticipate obstacles, and set a clear intention for the day.[12:00] Meditation for Mindfulness: Discover the benefits of starting your morning with a brief meditation session to cultivate presence and awareness[16:40] Reading Stoic Texts: Incorporate Stoic readings into your routine to fortify your mind against daily challenges and deepen your understanding of Stoic principles.[20:30] Embracing Cold Exposure: Understand how integrating cold showers into your morning can build resilience and enhance mental discipline.[24:15] Death Meditation: A reflective practice to remind yourself of life's impermanence and motivate you to live fully.[28:10] Dressing with Intention: Explore how your clothing choices can reflect your values and help you live more authentically.
Episode Highlights:Resources Mentioned:
Meditations* by Marcus AureliusLetters from a Stoic* by SenecaAtomic Habits* by James Clear
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In this guided meditation, you are encouraged to transform feelings of judgment towards others into opportunities for self-reflection and personal growth. Drawing on the wisdom of Marcus Aurelius, the meditation leads you through a process of recognizing your own faults, practicing self-compassion, and extending empathy towards those you might judge. By reflecting on the lessons these situations offer, you can deepen your understanding and commitment to your own growth, fostering greater wisdom and compassion in your daily life.
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In this quick episode, I offer practical tips to help you stop procrastinating and start taking action. Learn why we procrastinate, how to overcome the initial resistance, and the importance of adopting a professional mindset to stay consistent. If you’ve been putting off tasks, this episode will give you the motivation and tools you need to get started today.
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The Dichotomy of Control training focuses on distinguishing between what is within our control—our thoughts, actions, and responses—and what is outside our control, such as other people's opinions and external events. By learning to focus only on what we can control, we reduce unnecessary stress and cultivate inner peace. This practice empowers us to respond to life’s challenges with clarity and composure, fostering resilience and emotional stability.
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In Stage 2 of "The Mind Illuminated," practitioners work on sustaining their attention on the meditation object for longer periods, aiming to reduce mind-wandering. This stage focuses on recognizing and swiftly recovering from distractions, enhancing overall concentration. By cultivating a gentle yet persistent awareness, meditators build a solid foundation for more profound states of focus and tranquility in the stages to come.
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In this episode, we explore the Daily Stoic Mindful Review, a transformative practice designed to integrate Stoic principles into your daily life. Learn how to reflect on your thoughts, emotions, speech, and actions to improve self-awareness, emotional regulation, and resilience. By practicing this mindful review regularly, you can cultivate wisdom and virtue, reducing psychological distress and enhancing your response to life's challenges.
Join us as we guide you through the steps of the Stoic Daily Mindful Review, from opening awareness and grounding to analyzing consequences and reenacting with virtue. Embrace this practice to make intentional adjustments in your behavior and speech, fostering inner peace and stronger relationships. Listen in to start your journey towards a more mindful, Stoic approach to life.
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In this episode, we delve into profound concepts and practices to improve our relationships and our inner world by drawing from the CIT model (Cognitive Interpersonal Therapy) and incorporating the timeless wisdom of Stoic philosophy.
Quotes Featured:
"It's not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters." - Epictetus"You have power over your mind—not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength." - Marcus Aurelius"He who is brave is free." - Seneca"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." - Marcus Aurelius"We suffer more often in imagination than in reality." - Epictetus"When you arise in the morning think of what a privilege it is to be alive, to think, to enjoy, to love." - Marcus Aurelius"True happiness is to enjoy the present, without anxious dependence upon the future." - Seneca"Make the best use of what is in your power, and take the rest as it happens." - Epictetus"The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts." - Marcus AureliusTune in and take the first step towards cultivating a life of wisdom and virtue!
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Welcome to this guided meditation based on Stage One of The Mind Illuminated Meditation Training System. This meditation is designed to help you establish a consistent and diligent meditation practice. You'll be guided through a structured preparation, transition, and focused meditation, with periods of silence to allow you to deepen your practice. Practice this regularly to learn the foundational skills needed to maintain a regular meditation routine.
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In this episode, we delve into the profound Stoic philosophy surrounding death. Join us for a guided meditation that will help you confront and accept mortality, diminish the fear of death, and find peace in the natural cycle of life and death.
Learn to focus on what truly matters and live a life of tranquility and resilience.Key Takeaways:
Understanding the Stoic Perspective on DeathConfronting mortality and its inevitabilityQuotes from Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius, and SenecaExercise: Sit with Your Fear of DeathAddressing the root cause of anxietiesReflecting on the impact of death on your life's storyVisualizing Your LifeContemplating the transient nature of personal details and experiencesImagining Different TimeframesConsidering your actions with ten years, one year, and one day left to liveVisualizing Your Own DeathContemplating decay and the state of non-existence before birthFilling Your Heart with LovePracticing compassion and reflecting on loveCombining Compassion with ContemplationBalancing anxiety work with love and compassionQuotes Highlighted in the Episode:
"Some things are within our power, while others are not." – Epictetus"You have power over your mind—not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength." – Marcus Aurelius"He who fears death will never do anything worthy of a living man." – Seneca"It's not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters." – Epictetus"Consider that before long you will be nobody and nowhere, nor will anything which you now behold exist, nor one of those who are now alive." – Marcus Aurelius"Death is a release from all suffering." – Seneca"When you arise in the morning think of what a privilege it is to be alive, to think, to enjoy, to love." – Marcus Aurelius"Make the best use of what is in your power, and take the rest as it happens." – EpictetusGet immediate access to premium Stoic meditation courses, exclusive community, straight-to-the-point lessons, and Q&As created by Jon Brooks.
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This meditation explores the Stoic philosophy of detachment from possessions and desires. It guides listeners through the practice of deconstructing their attachments by breaking them down into their elemental parts, free of positive framing.
By doing so, participants can see their attachments with a neutral mind, helping to liberate themselves from unnecessary suffering. The meditation includes examples and contemplation questions to aid in this process, encouraging a balanced perspective and gratitude.Support the show
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In this evening Stoic meditation, you'll be guided through a reflective process to review your day with a balanced perspective. You'll begin by focusing on your successes, and acknowledging the positive actions and decisions you made. Then, you'll gently transition to areas where you could improve, understanding that self-reflection is about growth, not self-criticism.
Finally, you'll set a clear and focused intention for tomorrow, preparing yourself to face any challenges with a sense of gratitude and renewed purpose. This meditation aims to help you conclude your day with positivity and optimism, fostering a restful sleep and a fresh start for the next day.Support the show
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Join us in this transformative meditation session inspired by the wisdom of the Stoics. Today, we explore the teachings of Marcus Aurelius and Seneca, focusing on mindfulness, acceptance, and the preciousness of the present moment. This guided meditation will help you embrace each thought and emotion, reflect on past challenges, and prepare for future ones with a Stoic mindset.
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In this lesson, we explore the deep, transformative power of mindfulness and meditation beyond routine practices. We discuss how integrating mindfulness into every aspect of our lives can extend the benefits beyond the meditation cushion, influencing our health, relationships, and overall well-being.
What You'll Learn:
The addictive nature of cognition and the power of mindfulness prompts to help us live in the present.The commercial success of meditation apps and the misconception of meditation as a mental "vitamin."Insights from Sam Harris on the true connection with meditation practices, and the pivotal experiences from his 10-day meditation retreat.The role of continuous mindfulness throughout the day, as highlighted by Joseph Goldstein, and the importance of framing our daily meditation within the context of our entire day.Practical advice for integrating mindfulness into daily life, including a discussion on the benefits of consistent, mindful living.Featured Prompt: "What is here now when there is no problem to solve?"
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In this lesson I delve into Chapter 24 of Epictetus' Handbook, exploring five powerful arguments against the mindless pursuit of status and wealth. If you've ever found yourself dreaming of "making it" and achieving high social status, this discussion will challenge your current mindset and introduce a new Stoic approach to defining success.
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In this episode, I explore what it means to be a tough person.
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In the following podcast, Justin Noppé shared invaluable insights into the world of health, fitness, and personal development. This post distills the essence of that dialogue into a resourceful guide for anyone looking to embark on or enhance their health journey.
Learn how to become resilient with Justin here:
VO2 Max: A measure of the maximum volume of oxygen an athlete can use. It's a pivotal indicator of cardiovascular fitness.Heart Rate Variability (HRV): A measure of the variation in time between each heartbeat. Contrary to focusing on HRV, Justin suggests monitoring resting heart rate and respiration rate upon waking as more reliable health indicators.Eccentric and Concentric Movements: In resistance training, eccentric refers to muscle lengthening, while concentric relates to muscle shortening. Understanding these can aid in designing effective workout routines.Isometrics: Exercises where the muscle length doesn't change during contraction. These are beneficial for recovery and building strength within a muscle's range of motion.Resistance Training Fundamentals: Justin emphasizes four essential movements: push, pull, hinge, squat. Tailoring these to personal preference can make resistance training more enjoyable and effective.
https://bit.ly/neuroresiliencecourse
Key Terms and Concepts
Techniques and TacticsOvercoming Stress
Exploration and Curiosity: Emphasizing the importance of following one's passion and curiosity within exercise and beyond to ensure sustained engagement and joy in health practices.
Pre-bed Stretching Routine: Engaging in gentle stretching before bed can enhance sleep quality and muscle relaxation without the need for intensive flexibility training.
Flexibility and Mobility
Incremental Progression: Start with what's manageable and enjoyable, gradually increasing intensity and duration to improve cardiovascular health without overwhelming oneself.Norwegian High-Intensity Training Protocol: A rigorous training method that can significantly enhance VO2 max with just one session a week, but requires building up to avoid adverse reactions.
Cardiovascular Fitness
Peter Attia: Cited for his work on longevity and health optimization, emphasizing the significance of VO2 max.Human Givens Institute: Recommended for its innovative approach to psychological well-being, including strategies to address emotional patterns and triggers.
Notable MentionsLearn how to become resilient with Justin here:
https://bit.ly/neuroresiliencecourseGet immediate access to premium Stoic meditation courses, exclusive community, straight-to-the-point lessons, and Q&As created by Jon Brooks.
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In this episode, we delve into the profound relationship between science and spirituality, featuring insights from Steve Taylor, a distinguished British psychologist and celebrated author. With a rich background in transpersonal psychology, Taylor explores the realms of consciousness, awakening experiences, and the essence of spirituality in understanding our world.
Steve Taylor, a lecturer at the University of Leeds, stands out with his extensive research in higher states of consciousness and wakefulness. His literary contributions, including bestsellers like "The Fall," "Waking From Sleep," "Back to Sanity," "The Leap," and his latest, "Spiritual Science," challenge and expand our perceptions of spirituality. Eckhart Tolle praises "The Leap" for its clarity and wisdom, embodying Taylor's skill in articulating profound insights in an accessible manner.
In-Depth Conversation Highlights:
Beyond Materialism: Taylor critiques the limitations of a materialistic view, advocating for a broader understanding of existence.Enlightenment Reimagined: An exploration of enlightenment as an ongoing journey rather than a final destination, emphasizing the diverse experiences across spiritual traditions.Defining Consciousness: A quest to understand the essence of consciousness and its implications for our understanding of reality.Pathways to Awakening: Discussing methods to achieve enlightening experiences, including the transformative power of emotional turmoil.Psychedelics and Spirituality: The potential benefits and risks of using psychedelics in spiritual practice.The Science of Telepathy: Examining the possibility of telepathy from a scientific standpoint.Integration of Spirit and Matter: Taylor stresses the importance of recognizing the sacredness of the natural world and the unity of spirit and body.Get immediate access to premium Stoic meditation courses, exclusive community, straight-to-the-point lessons, and Q&As created by Jon Brooks.
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This lesson is taken from my 16-part premium course Seneca's Stoic Toolbox for Anger Management. To take the full course with a free trial, visit:
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In this session, we explore the debilitating nature of anger through the lens of Seneca's writings. Contrary to what society may sometimes depict, anger is not a badge of strength but a chain that holds us back from reaching our full potential. Through meditation and contemplation, we address the primal, relentless, and contagious nature of anger. We examine how, even though we may not display outward aggression, the simmering rage within can be equally toxic and detrimental to ourselves and those around us. By embracing Seneca's insights, we learn to recognize and release our pent-up anger, paving the way for emotional mastery and a fulfilling life. This lesson serves as a turning point, encouraging participants to move away from the self-imposed limitations of anger and towards a more serene, aware, and harmonious existence.Support the show
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