Picking A Philosophy

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Hey guys, 


I hope everyone is happy and healthy.


I put a lot of stock in philosophy. It is important, I feel, to create rules that define our lifestyle and behaviour. We all carry our own personal philosophies in life. Equally, it is a tricky subject judging positive and negative philosophies, i.e. what I see as good behaviour you may view as poor, and vice versa.


I can see this becoming rocky fast so I’ll continue with explaining why I chose Stoicism. I had reached a point in my life where my philosophy cobbled together from my experiences in life was failing me. The pillars I leaned upon began shifting. As a consequence my emotions were getting the better of me and my prized discipline became weak. I am an unabashed Star Trek fan and I respect the Vulcans on that show. Although, they feel with more passion and force then we do they always come across as disciplined and controlled. Equally, they showed immense amounts of compassion and respect for others (two behaviours I respect a great deal), as they are pound for pound one of the strongest, fastest and smartest species in the Star Trek universe. I came to discover that the creators of the show modelled the Vulcans after Stoicism. Stoicism is an ancient Greek philosophy that teaches control over one’s thoughts, feelings and actions. To practice and cultivate discipline. To show compassion in all things. To have a global perspective. To study Nature and follow her laws. 


Now if this doesn’t suit you, it’s all good. Stoicism is one of many philosophies from one of many cultures on the planet. You may find wisdom in Buddhist or Confucian teachings. Or you may not need to modify your personal philosophy at all. 


However, if when you look at yourself honestly and find yourself lacking study some philosophy from a culture that speaks to you. 


In my books a positive philosophy contains lessons that are designed to clear your thinking, boost your self-esteem, provide guideposts in life’s difficulties, and over all brings you into a better version of yourself.


Be well,


Sensei Mike 


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