Marcus Aurelius was a Roman emperor and is best known today as one of the greatest Stoic philosophers. Despite leading a vast empire during times of war, plague, and political unrest, he remained deeply committed to self-discipline, rationality, and virtue. He recorded his thoughts in a private journal, later published as a book called Meditations. Marcus Aurelius’ wisdom and insights are more relevant than ever. Here are 10 things we can learn from his ancient wisdom and apply to our daily lives.

1. Practice Mindfulness

Marcus emphasized the importance of being present in the moment. He believed that by focusing on the present helps reduce anxiety about the future. It also enables us to let go regrets about things in the past.  His teachings on mindfulness encourage us to appreciate life as it comes to us.

2. Embrace Adversity

Aurelius reminds us that challenges are opportunities for growth. Instead of fearing adversity, he advocates for embracing it as a chance to build resilience and develop character. Difficult times can refine us and help clarify our purpose.

3. Control What You Can

Aurelius teaches that we should focus our energy on things within our control, while accepting what we cannot change. This perspective can relieve stress and lead to greater inner peace, as it frees us from worrying about external events.

“You have power over your mind, not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.”

4. Cultivate Gratitude

Marcus often expressed gratitude for the simple things in life. For instance, he found joy in a warm cup of coffee in the morning, a beautiful sunset, and laughter with friends. This reminded him that true happiness exists in life’s small moments. By appreciating what we have rather than dwelling on what we don’t have, we can create a positive mindset and improve our overall well-being.

5. Value Wisdom Over Material Wealth

Aurelius believed that true wealth lies in wisdom and virtue, not in material possessions. He encourages us to seek knowledge and understanding.  Doing so ultimately leads to a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

6. Practice Empathy

Understanding others’ perspectives is a key tenet of the philosophy known as Stoicism. Marcus reminds us that everyone has their own struggles and challenges. By cultivating empathy, we can form deeper connections with others and have compassion in our relationships.

7. Accept Mortality

Aurelius often reflected on the transient nature of life. By acknowledging our mortality, we can make the most of our time here and focus on what truly matters. This acceptance encourages us to live fully and authentically.

8. Prioritize Action Over Words

For Marcus, actions speak louder than words. He believed that it is essential to align our behaviors with our principles. This lesson reminds us that true integrity comes from what we do, not just what we say.

9. Build Strong Character

Aurelius emphasized the importance of developing a strong moral character. He believed that our actions should reflect virtues such as courage, justice, and honesty. By striving for these qualities, we contribute positively to the world around us.

10. Reflect Regularly

Aurelius was a proponent of self-reflection, encouraging us to regularly examine our thoughts and actions. This practice helps us stay aligned with our values and continuously strive for improvement in our lives. Incorporating these principles into our daily routines can lead to a more thoughtful, resilient, and fulfilling life.

Marcus Aurelius’s teachings remain relevant today and can assist us in managing modern life. By applying his advice daily, we can grow stronger, become more focused, and connect with what truly matters. His wisdom can guide us through tough times and foster our personal growth. When we practice the values he emphasized, such as honesty, kindness, and gratitude, we can lead lives that are more meaningful and fulfilling.