Episode 23 – Courage: How to Practice Misfortune

This episode delves into the Stoic practice of voluntarily embracing discomfort, or "practicing misfortune," as a powerful method for building unshakeable resilience. It explains that this is not about self-punishment but about a form of psychological inoculation, a way to prepare the mind for the inevitable hardships of life. By intentionally and periodically exposing ourselves to mild forms of discomfort—like eating simple food, sleeping on the floor, or wearing minimal clothing in the cold—we can train ourselves to be less dependent on external comforts and less fearful of their potential loss. This practice helps to harden the self against the shocks of fortune.

Seneca's advice to his friend Lucilius serves as a central guide, urging him to set aside a few days each month to live as if he were poor, asking himself, "Is this the condition I so feared?". The purpose of this exercise is twofold: to realize that we can endure far more than we imagine and to cultivate a deeper gratitude for what we normally have. By experiencing a taste of what we fear losing, we not only reduce our anxiety about the future but also enhance our appreciation for the present moment. It’s a way to build a robust inner citadel that is not easily shaken by external circumstances.

The episode connects this ancient wisdom to modern examples, such as entrepreneurs and athletes who intentionally practice discomfort to sharpen their focus and build mental toughness. It's a call to move beyond the modern obsession with comfort, recognizing that a life devoid of challenge can lead to fragility and a heightened fear of adversity. By regularly stepping out of our comfort zones in these small, controlled ways, we develop the Stoic superpower of resilience, becoming the kind of person who can face any real misfortune with calm and fortitude.