The Daily Stoic Why Are You Surprised?
21 snips
Apr 30, 2026 A sharp reflection on why bad behavior should not catch us off guard. It explores predictable rudeness, dishonesty, and inconsideration, and the emotional drain of stewing over them. It also turns to courage, discipline, and choosing kindness and self-command instead of resentment.
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Why Predictable Bad Behavior Should Not Shock You
- Ryan Holiday argues the real mistake is feeling shocked when predictable people act exactly as they always have.
- He lists the jerk boss, passive-aggressive mother, dishonest politician, and loud neighbor, then echoes Marcus Aurelius that resenting this is like resenting a fig tree for secreting juice.
Stop Replaying Offenses And Build Steady Character
- Focus on becoming someone who does not get rattled instead of replaying other people's offenses for hours.
- Ryan Holiday says people waste nights at 2 a.m. reliving what others were always going to do, rather than practicing kindness, empathy, honesty, and respect.