Friday, August 15, 2025

Why This Wisdom Still Matters Today

In today’s culture of constant likes, shares, and social validation, Epictetus’ wisdom cuts through the noise, reminding us that the truest approval comes from within. Being properly grounded means cultivating a steady, unshakable sense of self-worth—one that remains firm regardless of praise or criticism.

When we rely too heavily on outside validation, we give others control over our emotional well-being. Compliments might lift us up for a moment, but criticism can send us spiraling. True grounding is about knowing your values, living in alignment with them, and trusting yourself enough that you don’t need constant reassurance.

What It Means to Be “Properly Grounded”

Being grounded is more than just confidence—it’s stability. It’s making decisions based on what’s right rather than what’s popular. It’s being able to hear constructive feedback without losing your center. It’s refusing to compromise your principles for approval.

In practice, being grounded might mean:

• Staying calm when others misunderstand you.

• Choosing integrity over popularity.

• Measuring your success by effort and character, not applause.

This inner stability makes you resilient, even in the face of criticism or rejection.

The Stoic Roots of This Idea

Epictetus (c. 50–135 AD) was born into slavery in the Roman Empire but became one of the most influential Stoic philosophers. His teachings—recorded by his student Arrian in Discourses and The Enchiridion—centered on the idea that happiness and peace come from mastering what’s within your control and letting go of what’s not.

The Stoics taught that external opinions are beyond our control, but our thoughts, choices, and character are always within our reach. To depend on the praise of others is to place your peace in someone else’s hands. Epictetus’ advice urges us to reclaim that power.

Key Takeaway

Your worth doesn’t need a round of applause. When you are firmly rooted in your values, external validation becomes a bonus—not a necessity.

Resource List – Cultivating Inner Grounding and Self-Approval

Books & Philosophical Texts

1. The Enchiridion – Epictetus

2. Discourses – Epictetus (as recorded by Arrian)

3. Meditations – Marcus Aurelius

4. Letters from a Stoic – Seneca

Modern Interpretations of Stoicism

5. The Daily Stoic – Ryan Holiday & Stephen Hanselman

6. How to Be Free: An Ancient Guide to the Stoic Life – Epictetus, translated by A. A. Long

Articles & Online Resources

7. Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy – Epictetus – https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/epictetus/

8. Modern Stoicism Project – https://modernstoicism.com

9. Daily Stoic Blog – https://dailystoic.com

Practical Tools for Self-Grounding

10. Journaling – Apps like Day One or Journey.

11. Meditation & Mindfulness Apps – Insight Timer, Headspace, or Calm.

12. Values Clarification Exercises – Worksheets to define your personal principles and non-negotiables.

Final Thought:
The moment you stop seeking permission to feel worthy is the moment you step into your true freedom. Epictetus knew this two thousand years ago—and it’s just as relevant in the age of social media as it was in the Roman Empire.