Simply put, Stoicism was designed to help people live their best possible lives. It is the Precursor to CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and likely one of the first well organized Western psychology therapies. Stoicism maximizes positive emotions, reduces negative emotions and helps individuals to hone their virtues of character.
Using the Book: The Obstacle Is the Way: The Timeless Art of Turning Trials into Triumph by Holiday, Ryan, write an brief essay answering the following questions.
I. PERCEPTION
1. Define and describe an obstacle in your own life (now or in the past).
2. Was the obstacle fully within your control to change? Or Partially within your control? Or not at all within your control? Explain why you think it falls into that category you choose.
II. ACTION
1. How did you respond to the obstacle?
2. How would a Stoic respond to your obstacle? How were the two ways to respond overlapping? How were they different? How would you approach a similar problem or issue different in the future?
III. WILL
1. Do you live in the Past or the Future or the Present? According to a Stoic, where would be the best place to live? Why?
2. The four cardinal virtues of Stoicism are 1. Wisdom — knowing between the good and the bad. 2. Justice — morality, fairness, impartiality. 3. Temperance — moderation, self-control, self-awareness. 4. Courage — bravery, grit, resilience. Which of these virtues do you possess? Go through each virtue and discuss how you embody that virtue and in what way you lack or are working on that virtue. Create a plan to practice these virtues in your life and discuss how you will implement your plan.
Your essay should include references to the book (The Obstacle is the Way) but you may also use as many or as few outside resources about Stoic Philosophy as you wish to help you.
The Essay should be 1000-1500 words, typed and double spaced. Create a reference page and cite any external sources that you use.
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