LE STOÏCISME - Se libérer du jugement

Introduction

This tutorial explores the principles of Stoicism, specifically focusing on how to free oneself from judgment as discussed in the video "LE STOÏCISME - Se libérer du jugement." Through understanding Stoic philosophy, you can gain insights into managing your reactions to external events and cultivating inner peace.

Step 1: Understand the Nature of Judgments

• Recognize that, as Epictetus stated, it is not the events themselves that disturb us, but our judgments about those events.
• Reflect on your own reactions to situations. Consider how often your distress is tied to your perceptions rather than the events themselves.
• Practical Tip: Keep a journal to track situations that upset you and note the judgments you made about those events.

Step 2: Distinguish Between What You Can Control and What You Cannot

• Identify elements in your life you can influence, such as your thoughts and actions, versus those you cannot control, like the opinions of others or external circumstances.
• Create a list:
  • Things You Can Control: Your reactions, your beliefs, your choices.
  • Things You Cannot Control: Other people's actions, natural events, societal norms.
• Common Pitfall: Avoid wasting energy on what is beyond your control. Focus instead on your response.

Step 3: Practice Negative Visualization

• Engage in a mental exercise where you visualize losing what you currently have (e.g., relationships, possessions).
• This practice helps in appreciating what you have and reducing the fear of loss.
• Actionable Steps:
  • Spend a few minutes daily imagining the worst-case scenarios related to your attachments.
  • Reflect on the strength and resilience you would need to cope with those losses.

Step 4: Cultivate an Objective Perspective

• Train yourself to view situations from a neutral standpoint, separating your emotions from the facts.
• Ask yourself:
  • What evidence do I have for my judgment?
  • Is my reaction proportional to the event?
• Practical Tip: When faced with a judgment, try to explain it to someone else as if you were a neutral observer.

Step 5: Embrace Acceptance

• Understand that acceptance does not mean approval. It means recognizing reality as it is without resistance.
• Techniques to foster acceptance:
  • Mindfulness meditation: Focus on the present moment and acknowledge your feelings without judgment.
  • Affirmations: Use positive statements to reinforce acceptance, such as "I accept things as they are."

Conclusion

By engaging with Stoic principles, you can develop a deeper understanding of your judgments and reactions. Start by recognizing the nature of your judgments, distinguishing between what you can control and what you cannot, and practicing acceptance. These techniques can help you cultivate a more peaceful and resilient mindset. To further explore Stoicism, consider reading texts by Stoic philosophers or joining discussions on their teachings.