A Guide to the Good Life
Emotional intelligence
Meditate on your behavior before bed

Meditate on your behavior before bed

from A Guide to the Good Life: The Ancient Art of Stoic Joy by William B. Irvine

How to Apply This

  1. Find a comfortable space.
    Even though this is not a traditional mediation, you still need a quiet, comfortable space where you won’t be disturbed. Usually, it’s best to do this meditation just before bed.

  2. Reflect on how you reacted to the negative situations you’ve encountered throughout the day.
    Sit quietly and think about different situations you’ve encountered throughout the day, particularly negative ones. Consider how you reacted to the situation. Did you have a strong emotional reaction to things you can’t control? Did you act in a way that reflects your character? Do you think you handled the situation in the best way?

  3. Assess your reactions.
    Now, assess your reactions. Were you right to respond in the way that you did? If not, what did you do wrong?

  4. Give yourself advice for next time.
    Finally, give yourself advice for next time. For example, if you argue with somebody, you might advise yourself to stop taking things so personally. If you were stressed about your finances, you might advise yourself to let go of things you cannot fully control. Repeat this advice to yourself three times slowly to absorb it before you go to sleep.

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