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BigNorseWolf t1_j6bydvi wrote

Generally good ideas, but hard disagree on number 7.

I mean, you can largely decide how you react or not. You can walk away, blow them off, or punch them in the face. But peoples control over their thoughts is kind of limited.

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pdieten t1_j6c4jlw wrote

The fact that you say this means that you do not yet understand Stoic philosophy. Because you absolutely do have the ability to control your thoughts. Learning to manage and redirect your instant reactions is the object of this philosophy.

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Not_aSpy t1_j6dgmim wrote

Not to mention modern cognitive Behavioral therapy, one of the most broadly effective treatments for lots of mental health issues, is all about teaching people how to have more control over their own thoughts. Those skills aren't easy but they are so beneficial.

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BigNorseWolf t1_j6c577g wrote

I think this is bullshit is not the same as I don't understand it.

It might in fact, be bullshit.

And if you have to ad hom like that, I have even less reason to believe you have any other substance.

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braveabandon t1_j6cjuhy wrote

If you practice meditation, you will discover it is actually true. It doesn't even take that much to gain those benefits.

The feelings will dissolve without having to be reacted to. Eventually you are just observing the feelings without them consuming you or controlling you, and they can pass very quickly.

The more you meditate, the faster and easier it becomes, and the stronger the feelings you can allow to dissolve.

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Blackshirts98 t1_j6dq1r8 wrote

It’s like a muscle. If you don’t actively try to use it it will never strengthen and you will live thinking it impossible.

Stoicism doesn’t call for the absence of emotion. We all feel emotions and that’s a good thing. Stoicism calls for not letting our emotions guide our decision making. When you make a choice angry vs when you make a choice feeling neutral what’s likely the better choice? Realize your emotions and understand them, but don’t let them control you

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BigNorseWolf t1_j6f3bo8 wrote

Blackshirt, you're not disagreeing with me. Try reading it again.

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