At every small crossroads, take the option that challenges you most.
Marcus Aurelius practised holding the reins with his weaker hand, both as a literal exercise and as a symbol of embracing difficulty. Whenever we come to a little crossroads, a decision about how to do things and what things to do, Marcus said to default to the option that challenges us the most.
Dive into the cooler water. Walk rather than drive. Read a book rather than scroll on your phone. Accept responsibility instead of hoping to go unnoticed. In small ways and big ones, bravery lies in choosing the tougher option.
“
Iron sharpens iron.
Turn it into a routine. Choosing the harder option doesn't just help you grow through challenge. Making that choice on purpose strengthens your willpower too.
TRY THIS TODAY
At three small decisions today, take the harder option: the stairs, the cold shower, the difficult phone call.
Much of what I've learned about Stoicism comes from Ryan Holiday. Find more of his writing at dailystoic.com and ryanholiday.net.
While I have edited much of this content, there are some cases where I have taken Ryan Holiday's words directly. I've included them because I think they are powerful and will be helpful for you. They are also helpful for me, and I've put them here so I can learn and understand more myself.
Visit Daily Stoic