Hajra Naz
Thoughts that are “positive” are not a good way to approach life, due to common sense and self-help advice.
Friends advise you to “hold out hope.” Experts of self-improvement advocate for “the law of attraction.” However, it’s all nonsense. Thinking like this can only result in disappointment, sadness, and anxiety.
(Why, in your opinion, do most people lack productivity and low self-esteem?)
Find a life plan that is effective instead. For instance, the ancient Roman Stoic philosophy
This post will teach you five essential Stoic concepts that will help you “upgrade” your thinking and gain confidence in your ability to accomplish tasks quickly.
#1: Recognize the power of your thoughts
“You don’t have to turn this into something. It doesn’t have to upset you.” – Marcus Aurelius
Your reality is shaped by your thoughts.
You need to go no further than the presence of placebo effects for evidence of this.
According to studies, people who were given simple sugar pills but were informed they were receiving medication had quite noticeable changes in their bodies. Patients have sometimes noticed changes in blood pressure and heart rate. In rare instances, patients have reported a decrease in Parkinson’s disease symptoms.
Your ideas have the power to alter the physiological processes that govern your body.
The astounding power was recognized by the Stoics of ancient Rome. They understood that we always have a choice in how we react to the events of life.
You have an option if you are brutally turned down in front of a large group of people. You could feel self-righteous and ashamed. On the other hand, you could take pride in your efforts and ignore the opinions of these strangers.
You have an option if your favourite presidential candidate is not elected. You can start online arguments with people to disprove them all. Alternatively, you could submit to reality and concentrate your efforts on achieving your objectives.
It’s always your choice.
Step to take: Consider an event that is causing you stress right now. How are you able to view this differently? How does it make you stronger?
Read More: Lack The Confidence? Read One Of These 7 Books On Self-Confidence
#2: Make a plan then stop thinking
“Say to yourself first what you would be, and then take necessary action.” – Epictetus
Delay is common in our day and age.
Every organization I’ve worked for promotes holding daily meetings over completing important tasks. Everyone I come into contact with is too busy with “mental masturbation” to truly follow through on their goals and reach their objectives.
The first step is to confirm that you have no goals in mind. But once you have made up your mind, it’s time to stop thinking and start working.
Plans and thoughts are meaningless. Even the best ideas aren’t worthless. Not until you work hard and take the required actions to make it happen.
Wish to change your line of work? Fantastic. Make a fresh start decision, go get the necessary training or certification, and then begin looking for jobs. Do you want to lose weight at last? Fantastic. Start consuming the recommended number of calories and lift weights three times a week.
Give up “doing research,” “getting ready,” and bragging to everyone about your wonderful plan. Simply begin. Right now.
There’s a reason why the famous Marcus Aurelius and other ancient Stoics were so wealthy and accomplished. They did something about it. repeatedly.
Step of action: Ask yourself, “What plans or goals have you been putting off or second-guessing?” Ask yourself, “What should I do next? after that. Take action right now.
#3: Embrace your failures and mistakes
“A man cannot be perfected without trials, just as a gem cannot be polished without friction.” – Seneca
This one is obvious to even a determined philosopher: failure is a part of life.
Take a look at anyone you know who is successful. Their journey to success was likely filled with failures.
People are mostly pussies. After making one or two blunders, most people give up and become disappointed.
You’re being naive if you believe you can launch a profitable company without ever losing money. You’re an idiot if you think you can suddenly become confident in social situations and attractive without having to deal with rejection.
You simply need to confront failure more often if you are unable to tolerate it.
Failure must be redefined as a necessary component of learning. Recognize that every time you make a mistake, you have just advanced. Failing shows that you still have things to learn. Failure reveals to you exactly where you need to grow and develop as a person.
Step of action: Consider a recent error you made. “What can I learn from this mistake?” Take this into consideration. Now give thanks for this instruction. Because of that, you are stronger than before.
#4: Consider how amazing your existence is
“Reflect on the priceless blessing of life as you wake up each morning.” – Marcus Aurelius
The fact that you are still alive is a miracle.
For scientists, the existence of the universe is a complete puzzle.
The Roman Stoics understood the significance of this concept. They realized that one of the most effective ways to be thankful for life is to constantly remind oneself of its mystery.
Consider this: is there any reason to take anything so seriously? Why should you be concerned about your hairline receding? Why should you worry so much about your job? Why would you want to be angry with your girlfriend?
Every day you get to wake up and experience life. And that’s simply incredible.
I’m not attempting to come across as some insane priest. However, that is true. Furthermore, very few people stop to express their gratitude for getting to live another day.
Step of action: Shut your eyes. Cover your heart with both hands. Consider how wonderful it is that your heart beats continuously. Appreciate every minute you have left on earth.
Read More: 5 Hobbies that build confidence and greater self-esteem
#5: Stop expecting — ground yourself in today
“Expecting is the greatest impediment to living. In anticipation of tomorrow, it loses today.” – Seneca
Being in the now and paying attention to what’s in front of you is maybe the most important lesson that the Roman Stoics can give.
Everyone is concerned about tomorrow. The thought of coming holidays and vacations excites everyone. Everyone loses sight of the pleasure in the work they truly accomplish.
Upon waking up, your first concern is reaching work on time. After that, as you sit at your desk, you dream about your lunch. After lunch, you realize that you still have five hours of work ahead of you, which makes you unhappy. After that, you return to your work and dislike having to make the trip home to the gym. After that, your entire workout is spent looking forward to dinner and the upcoming Netflix episode of your beloved show. And during that process? You simply become depressed about having to get up early and return to work.
You cannot appreciate ANYTHING in life if you are consumed with worrying about what might occur at any moment.
Rather, you need to “catch yourself” while you’re worrying or daydreaming. Then, you have to get back to your current task.
Realize that tomorrow is your worst day at work? Once you’ve accepted it, return your attention to spending time with your friend. Recognize that you are considering your planned date for tonight? After receiving it, resume working on your project.
Focus improves performance automatically, so this straightforward formula is the key to changing both your productivity and your self-confidence.
