The Daily Stoic How Stories Teach Us The Truth | Reduce Wants, Increase Happiness
Feb 22, 2021
Stories, even those featuring animals, hide profound truths about life and happiness. They teach us moderation and the importance of reducing desires. The power of storytelling is emphasized as a tool for understanding human nature. A personal tale about a children's book inspired by Marcus Aurelius connects ancient wisdom to modern lessons. Additionally, the transformative benefits of therapy are discussed, offering practical solutions for those seeking support.
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Stories Teach Truth
- Stories teach truths about greed, fear, and human nature, even seemingly childish ones.
- Stoics used fables and art as a delivery mechanism for these truths.
Reduce Wants, Increase Happiness
- Reduce your wants to increase gratitude and hop off the hedonic treadmill.
- Practice wanting less and appreciate what you have for true contentment.
Epictetus's Metaphors
- Epictetus uses the metaphor of a banquet: take a moderate share, don't yearn for what you don't have.
- He also compares desire to a child's hand stuck in a candy jar: let go of some to get any.
