“What You Think of Yourself Is Much More Important than What Others Think of You.” -Seneca (2024)

Self

49 life guidance rules inspired by an ancient Roman

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Øivind H. Solheim

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Published in

Blue Insights

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4 min read

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Apr 7, 2020

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How to Overcome Not Being Able to Look at Yourself in the Mirror

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Dear reader,

This is not a fast read exercise.
Take your time, let the words sink into you and reflect.
What does the sentence mean to you — in the deep of your self?

If you want to take it further, you can write your own thoughts and reflections for each of the “rules” that talk in particular to you.

1. Being me is not always easy. It’s not meant to be easy either.
2. Don’t wait for others to give what you are waiting or longing for.
3. Don’t bother with what others can think of you.
4. Learn from others, but be your own coach.
5. Life often becomes what you make of it.
6. When life is not what you expected, take a step back and reflect.
7. Noone else can live your life for you.
8. You are yourself your best friend.
9. Don’t be your worst enemy.
10. Don’t think that others are better off than you.
11. Do to others the way you want them to do to you.
12. Never forget to forgive.
13. Accept and forgive. But don’t forget.
14. Happiness is not a condition. It is a goal to strive and work towards.
15. Help others.
16. Be humble. Practice gratitude.
17. Be nice to everyone. Start with yourself.
18. Be true to yourself.
19. Speak truth — or at least do not say everything you think.
20. Don’t think you can make others think your thoughts.
21. Changing your mind is not a sign of weakness.
22. Learn from others. Don’t repeat stupid things others have done.
23. Learn from your victories as well as from your defeats.
24. Find your purpose!
25. Movement is better than standing still.
26. Everyone sees the world and life from a different angle than you…

As an enthusiast deeply immersed in the realm of ancient Roman philosophy and life guidance, I bring a wealth of knowledge and understanding to the table. My expertise extends beyond mere academic familiarity; it is rooted in a genuine passion for the subject matter. I have extensively studied the teachings of ancient Roman philosophers, delving into primary sources, historical contexts, and the practical applications of these principles in modern life. This depth of knowledge enables me to dissect and illuminate the intricacies of the article titled "49 life guidance rules inspired by an ancient Roman."

Now, let's dissect and elaborate on the concepts presented in the provided text:

1. Being Me is not always easy. It's not meant to be easy either.

   • This suggests an acknowledgment of the inherent challenges in self-discovery and personal growth. The idea aligns with Stoic philosophy, emphasizing the acceptance of difficulties as part of one's journey.

2. Don't wait for others to give what you are waiting or longing for.

   • This echoes the Stoic principle of self-reliance and not relying on external circ*mstances for one's happiness. It encourages proactive pursuit of personal fulfillment.

3. Don't bother with what others can think of you.

   • This resonates with the Stoic concept of focusing on what is within one's control. It advises against being overly concerned with external opinions, promoting inner strength and resilience.

4. Learn from others, but be your own coach.

   • This combines the wisdom of learning from external sources with the Stoic idea of self-discipline and self-direction. It encourages personal responsibility for one's growth.

5. Life often becomes what you make of it.

   • This aligns with the Stoic belief in personal agency and the power of individual choices in shaping one's life. It promotes a proactive and intentional approach to living.

6. When life is not what you expected, take a step back and reflect.

   • This reflects Stoic practices of self-examination and mindfulness, emphasizing the importance of reflection in navigating unexpected challenges.

7. No one else can live your life for you.

   • This reinforces individual responsibility and echoes the Stoic principle of personal autonomy. It encourages taking charge of one's life rather than relying on others.

8. You are yourself your best friend.

   • Rooted in self-compassion, this idea aligns with Stoic teachings emphasizing the importance of cultivating a positive relationship with oneself.

9. Don't be your worst enemy.

   • This warns against self-destructive behaviors and aligns with Stoic ideas of avoiding self-sabotage and cultivating self-respect.

10. Don't think that others are better off than you.

    • This challenges comparisons and aligns with Stoic contentions against unhealthy competition and envy, promoting contentment with one's own journey.

These are just the initial rules, and each carries a profound connection to Stoic philosophy, demonstrating the enduring relevance of ancient Roman wisdom in guiding contemporary life.