stoic transformation insights from K. Mhlauli





To live Stoically is not to reject emotion; these are insights from Mr Mhlauli, whom I asked how being stoic has shaped him since 2022

This is what he had to say;......

''One of the most common misconceptions when I tell people that I am a Stoic is that it's all about suppressing emotions, as if being a Stoic means becoming emotionally numb, robotic, or indifferent. But true Stoicism isn't about denying emotions, it's about mastering them. It teaches us not to be ruled by emotional turbulence, not to pretend feelings don’t exist. It helps me acknowledge the presence of emotions while emphasising the importance of managing them and not letting them control my actions or judgment.

Stoicism, at its heart, acknowledges that it teaches us that while we feel, we don't have to be led by those feelings. It's about responding rather than reacting. So rather than bottling emotions, Stoicism helps me hold space for them, understand them, and then choose peace, wisdom, and virtue over chaos and impulse.

When I say I’m trying to live by Stoic principles, I don’t mean I’m emotionally detached. I mean, I’m learning to pause. To ask: Is this within my control? What would be the most honourable response right now? It’s a kind of emotional clarity that doesn’t silence the heart, but it just puts it in harmony with reason.

It has also taught me contentment. I need to be content at all times, regardless of the circumstances. I choose to be happy. Why be disturbed by external factors which I have no control over? Why complain or cry about something when it won't make the situation any better? Instead, I look around and I see that there are so many things to be grateful for that may seem small but are actually so big, and if you think your situation is bad, there's someone out there going through worse"

Dankii mdalii

unga'dontseli stulo bhoii mina ngihlale ethembeni....


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