I’ve been on a stoic’s kick lately thanks to following the Daily Stoic newsletter. Long story short, author Ryan Holiday shares wisdom from ancient philosophers and teachers us how we can apply it to modern-day life. Habits like learning to let go of things you can’t control, beginning with the end in mind, and a lot of other deep and practical views.
The first book of his I am reading is Ego is Enemy, how our ego can be contained so that it doesn’t ruin us. It’s a great read so far. Ryan gives examples of ancient stoics and their ideas on submitting the ego. Stoics like the Roman emperor Marcus Aralias, Seneca, and others have invaluable ideas on not letting your ego get the best of you so that you are truly able to grow and learn from those around you.
Ryan also shares stories from historical figures who did or didn’t control their ego and how that impacted their lives. Many figures like Benjamin Franklin, an absolute GOAT, struggled with controlling his ego for many years. Only after learning to not let it get the best of him, was he able to finally become the man we all know him as.
The book is full of great quotes and exerts, but I’ll leave you with one that I’ve found extremely useful and almost sums up the book perfectly.
“Practice seeing yourself with a little distance, cultivating the ability to get out of your own head.”
Ryan Holiday, Ego is the Enemy
Our ego often makes us believe we are better than we are. That we are or should be the smartest person in the room. In reality, we can strive to be super smart and super accomplished, as long as we don’t let the ego get the best of us. We can always learn something from someone and can always improve from where we are today.
If you haven’t already, go check out Ryan Holiday and the DailyStoic on social media and maybe go check out his books. I recently ordered two of his other books, The Obstacle is the Way and Discipline is Destiny. Super excited to read them and I’ll be sure to let you know how they are!
Thanks for reading this and happy Monday.
-T
thefarmtraveler.com 