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You might not think you have anything in common with a Roman emperor that lived centuries ago. But, even today, the powerful words of Marcus Aurelius carry wisdom that still applies.
Ruling Rome for over two decades, Aurelius navigated relentless challenges, according to Yale University Press. And yet, despite all this, he governed with wisdom, justice, and courage. His masterpiece, Meditations, offers enduring insights on gratitude, simplicity, and mastering the mind.
Today, his teachings continue to inspire, showing how ancient wisdom remains a guide to modern challenges and a path to a more meaningful, centered life.
Who was Marcus Aurelius?
Aurelius was a Roman emperor and Stoic philosopher that lived between 121–180 CE. Born into a prominent Roman family, the statesmen took an interest in philosophy at the tender age of 12. He studied Stoicism, an ancient philosophy that emphasizes moral virtue over wealth, power, and external possessions.
According to Heritage History, Aurelius first took the throne and governed jointly with his brother, Lucius Verus, before ruling alone for 22 years. Throughout his reign, he adhered to the Stoic principles of wisdom, justice, courage, and moderation to navigate political challenges and personal adversity.
Despite facing famine, plague, rebellions, and moral decline, Aurelius ruled with virtue. His calm resolve and unwavering dedication to the good of his people cemented his reputation as one of Rome’s most admired leaders, earning his legacy as the “philosopher-emperor.”
While his political achievements are remarkable, Aurelius is perhaps best known for Meditations. Written as a personal journal, this masterpiece offers profound reflections on how to live a virtuous life. Even centuries later, Meditations remains a timeless guide to self-improvement that continues to inspire readers, proving that the ancient wisdom of Stoicism still endures even two millennia later.
Lessons From Meditations
Meditations contains a treasure trove of wisdom, from finding freedom in gratitude to embracing simplicity and mastering the mind. These timeless principles empower you to thrive and lead a purposeful life, no matter the challenges you face.
Lesson 1: Focus on What You Have Instead of What You Lack
“Think of what you have rather than what you lack. Of the things you have, select the best and reflect on how eagerly you would have sought them if you didn’t already have them.”
These words written nearly 2,000 years ago, still resonate today. The Roman emperor understood something timeless: gratitude changes everything.
As Stoic Magazine points out, constantly comparing yourself to others creates a never ending cycle of wanting more, more, more. You’ve probably been there — dwelling on what you don’t have instead of appreciating what’s right in front of you. And, while it’s natural to strive for a better life, constant obsession over what you lack steals the joy away from what you already have. It leaves little room for appreciation and contentment.
Aurelius teaches that you should cherish the simple joys around you. As challenging as it may seem, especially during difficult times, learn to let go of unfulfilled desires that weigh you down. True freedom comes not from having more, but from appreciating enough. Take it from Aurelius: abundance isn’t measured by possessions, it’s a state of mind.
Lesson 2: In Order to Thrive, Simplify
“Do external things distract you? Then make time for yourself to learn something worthwhile; stop letting yourself be pulled in all directions. But make sure you guard against the other kind of confusion. People who labor all their lives but have no purpose to direct every thought and impulse toward are wasting their time, even when hard at work.”
These words remind you that life isn’t about doing more; it’s about doing what matters. According to Medium, quality always outweighs quantity when it comes to building a meaningful life. And, focus makes all the difference. Find your purpose. Remove distractions. Work hard each day toward your dreams.
Aurelius knows the secret sauce to thrive; less is really more. Meaning comes from focusing on what truly aligns with your purpose. When you clear away distractions and focus on the essentials, you gain clarity, direction, and peace. It’s a timeless reminder to guard your time, energy, and attention and invest them only in what truly matters.
Lesson 3: Find Joy in the Present. Don’t Worry about the Future.
“Never let the future disturb you. You will meet it, if you have to, with the same weapons of reason which today arm you against the present.”
According to Daily Stoic, Aurelius believed that problems and unhappiness arise not from events themselves but from how your mind perceives them. Worrying wastes energy and takes away from the joy of the moment. And, when you think about it, it really doesn’t solve anything. It just creates problems in the mind that simply do not exist and likely never will.
The real path to peace comes with mastering the mind. It involves teaching yourself to wipe away negative thinking even during tough times. Reframe obstacles into opportunities to cultivate resilience and flexibility. Have faith and confidence in yourself instead!
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