Set backs and stoicism

I'm not a big fan of "self-help" books or programs. Maybe it's just because I am beyond help.

But thanks to the recommendation by a friend (Thanks, Jim) in response to my post on Type-Two Fun, I read William B. Irvine's The Stoic Challenge: A Philosopher's Guide to Becoming Tougher, Calmer, and More Resilient.

I am adding it to my list of the most influential books I have ever read.

Much of Irvine's pragmatic advice, based on the works of Seneca and other Stoic philosophers, is not exactly new. The basic premise of not being able to choose what setbacks life hands us but being able to choose how we react to those setbacks is sort of old hat. Readable, personal, even conversational in tone, what may have been complex and archane philosophic principles are placed in context of situations to which any reader can relate.

Give it a shot. You won't regret it.

A quote below...

Comments

[Jim]

Glad you liked it. It’s a companion piece to his earlier book, Guide to the Good Life where he began researching practical philosophies of life, fully expecting to find Zen Buddhism to be his pick. He found himself surprised and intrigued that Stoicism was a better fit. He also appears on a recent (within the last year) episode of the Hidden Brian podcast discussing the new book in a fun and engaging way. Best, Jim

[Doug Johnson]

Thanks, Jim. Appreciate the recommendations.

Doug