Show gratitude for what you have
from A Guide to the Good Life: The Ancient Art of Stoic Joy by William B. Irvine
How to Apply This
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Notice happy moments throughout your day.
Whenever you feel particularly relaxed or happy, take a moment to notice it. Consider your surroundings and pay attention to patterns throughout the day. -
Think about the things/people that make you happy.
When you feel happy and content, consider why. It could be because of a person you are spending time with, a job you love, a hobby you are excited about, or even a consumer item you bought. Whatever it is, pinpoint the things in your life that make you happy. -
Imagine your life without those things/people.
Finally, imagine how you would feel without those things/people. It seems morbid, but it is common practice for stoics to imagine a loved one dying whenever they spend time with them. Focus on the negative feelings you would experience without the good things in your life. Think briefly about negative outcomes a few times a day, but don’t dwell on these thoughts for too long. Doing this regularly will make you feel grateful for the things you already have instead of wishing for things you don’t have.
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