An Overview of Stoicism’s Four Core Rules

While Stoicism is a rich tradition with many layers, four guiding rules often capture its essence. These principles help practitioners cultivate inner peace and moral excellence.

Rule 1: Control What You Can

Direct your effort toward attitudes, decisions, and actions under your jurisdiction, and release futile worries over external events.

Rule 2: Live by Virtue

At the heart of Stoicism stand four virtues—wisdom, courage, justice, and temperance. Align your life with these ideals.

Rule 3: Accept Fate

Embrace circumstances you cannot alter, using them as opportunities to practice resilience and ingenuity.

Rule 4: Practice Self-Awareness

Regular introspection ensures you remain mindful of progress and pitfalls, refining your character continuously.

Putting It All Together

Applying these rules daily transforms Stoic theory into a practical roadmap for psychological stability, ethical living, and enduring fulfillment.