Episode 35 – Perception: Journaling as a Philosophical Practice

This deep dive examines the ancient practice of Stoic journaling as a powerful tool for building mental resilience and clarity. It highlights that this is not simply a diary for recording events, but a profound philosophical exercise for self-examination and improvement. The prime example is Marcus Aurelius's Meditations, which began as a series of private notes and self-exhortations written during demanding military campaigns. This practice serves as a method to internalize Stoic principles and actively shape one's inner world.

The episode details several key functions of Stoic journaling. It is a space to practice the discipline of perception by writing down and analyzing one's judgments about events, thereby creating cognitive distance. Journaling is also used for the "premeditation of evils," a technique of contemplating potential future hardships to reduce their emotional impact should they occur. Furthermore, it facilitates gaining a "view from above," a cosmic perspective that helps diminish the perceived importance of everyday anxieties and frustrations.

The process of writing provides a tangible way to engage in a dialogue with oneself, acting as one's own "refutationist" by challenging negative impressions. It reinforces the fundamental Stoic distinction between what is within our control and what is not, helping to focus energy on our own choices and character. Ultimately, Stoic journaling is presented as a practical, daily discipline for forging an "inner fortress" against the chaos of life.