My friend Doug Bruns from over at The House I Live In is participating in Stoic Week which begins on October 1st. Go read his post about it.

Stoicism, at least modern stoicism examines the philosophy of stoic writers such as Marcus Aurelius, Seneca and Epictetus, and asks if their ideas can help us lead a more fulfilling life today.

Stoic principles include the following 10 guidelines to help us achieve this.

1. Stay active
2. Do not fear
3. Live modestly
4. Be grateful
5. Keep above the herd
6. Follow nature
7. Value time
8. Behold virtue
9. Block vices
10. Examine yourself

If you would like to explore these ideas further or even participate in the free program (with step by step exercises and audio meditations) for stoic week, there is more information here.

What is a happy life? It is peacefulness and lasting tranquillity, the sources of which are a great spirit and a steady determination to hold fast to good decisions. How does one arrive at these things? By recognizing the truth in all its completeness, by maintaining order, moderation and appropriateness in one’s actions, by having a will which is always well-intentioned and generous, focused on reason and never deviating from it, as lovable as it is admirable.
Seneca, Letters, 92.3