The Stoic Emergency Kit: For Those Who Need a Refresher and Those Who Are Just Starting Out

Stoicism is my chosen philosophy of life. Meaning that it provides me with a moral compass that guides me whenever I need to navigate the small and bigger problems that we inevitably encounter when dealing with others, when working, when loving. Pretty much when living. I discovered Stoicism while muddling through a midlife crisis, after having left my religion (Roman Catholicism), and having understood that my previous choice, secular humanism, was simply not providing me with enough practical guidance and spiritual fulfillment. I have written hundreds of articles and three books on Stoicism, but often people ask me for something basic, understandable, and practical. Hence this collection of essays. They are meant as handy refreshers for people who have already been practicing this incredible philosophy, as well as for people who are just starting out and want to catch up quickly. Indeed, the impetus for this collection is the ongoing (at the time of writing) COVID-19 pandemic and the interest it has generated in Stoicism. Stoic philosophy is not a panacea, nor is it a magic bullet. But it is an incredible source of wisdom and inner strength, and the more you study and practice it, the more it yields fruits. Give it a try, or get back into it. You will not regret it. Happy practice!