Using Stoicism to Handle the Stress and Uncertainty of Today’s Political Climate 

​

Introduction 

​

In an era of political division, economic uncertainty, and constant media exposure, many individuals feel overwhelmed and anxious about the state of the world. People fear what will happen with Russia and China. They fear that they will lose their jobs and not find new employment. Stoicism, an ancient philosophy rooted in logic, virtue, and resilience, offers timeless strategies for maintaining inner peace amid external turmoil. By focusing on what is within our control, accepting the impermanence of circumstances, and cultivating a rational mindset, we can navigate today’s political landscape with composure and wisdom. 

Many people think that Stoicism is about not having feelings, and living like a robot. Nothing can be further from the truth. Stoicism is about gaining control of your thoughts and feelings. When you gain control, you can handle anything and have mastered your life. 

​

When you practice Stoicism, you can still feel good feelings. For example, you can still enjoy going on a vacation. You can still determine which activities you enjoy and do them. Mostly Stoicism is about maintaining your composure and keeping in control when you don’t like what is happening. 

​

The Core Principles of Stoicism 

​

Stoicism, founded by Zeno of Citium in the early 3rd century BCE, emphasizes four cardinal virtues: 

• Wisdom – The ability to discern what is true and act accordingly. 

• Courage – The strength to face challenges and uncertainties with resilience. 

• Justice – Treating others fairly and striving for ethical integrity. 

• Temperance – Practicing self-control and moderation in all things. 

 

These principles guide Stoic thought and provide a foundation for managing political stress. 

​

1. Distinguishing Between What You Can and Cannot Control 

​

One of the most powerful Stoic ideas is the dichotomy of control, articulated by Epictetus in The Enchiridion. He teaches that we should focus on things within our control—our thoughts, actions, and responses—while accepting that external events, such as political decisions or societal trends, are beyond our direct influence. 

​

• Practical Application: Instead of ruminating over news headlines or engaging in heated debates that lead to frustration, redirect energy toward constructive actions like voting, civic engagement, or personal growth. Many people today engage in endless debates on social media. One person will say that Trump ought to be impeached and another will say that he is the savior of our nation. Then a third person says “I voted for Trump; I did not vote for Musk.” It goes on and on in endless debate. 

 

As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I often tell my clients to take a news fast if the news contributes to their anxiety. Then  tell them to focus on what they have in their lives and what the can have control over. I have often heard a client tell me that this attitude helped their anxiety  

​

2. Practicing Negative Visualization 

​

Seneca, another prominent Stoic philosopher, advocated for premeditatio malorum, or negative visualization—mentally preparing for potential difficulties to reduce their emotional impact. 

​

• Practical Application: Consider worst-case political scenarios and prepare rational responses. If an election doesn’t go as you hoped, remind yourself that human history has endured countless political shifts and that adaptation is possible.  

 

One time I was selected to participate in a game show for people who have areas of expertise. The show never happened but my specialty of knowledge was presidential history. I know from my knowledge base that our country has survived may wars and bad presidencies and still keeps going. 

​

3. Avoiding Emotional Reactivity 

​

Marcus Aurelius, the Roman Emperor and Stoic philosopher, advised maintaining equanimity in Meditations: “You have power over your mind—not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.” 

​

• Practical Application: Before reacting to political events, pause, assess the situation logically, and respond with calm reasoning instead of emotional outrage. Engaging in civil discourse rather than heated arguments fosters mutual understanding. There is an old saying that there are two sides to every issue. Anything about politics and even the economy is multifaceted. 

 

4. Cultivating an Internal Locus of Control 

​

Stoicism teaches that happiness and tranquility come from within, not from external circumstances. 

• Practical Application: Develop resilience by focusing on personal virtues rather than political outcomes. Whether policies align with your beliefs or not, maintaining ethical behavior and mental discipline ensures peace of mind. You can still feel good about yourself when you follow your conscience. 

5. Engaging in Constructive Action 

​

While Stoicism encourages detachment from uncontrollable outcomes, it does not promote passivity. Seneca emphasized the importance of contributing positively to society. 

​

• Practical Application: Instead of dwelling on political frustrations, take tangible steps such as supporting local initiatives, educating yourself on policies, and practicing kindness in daily interactions. This will give you a locus of control over your life. The more you indulge in meaningful activities that you care about the more you will feel in control of your life. You will also get the good feeling that you are doing good things. 

 

Conclusion 

The Stoic approach to modern political stress revolves around self-mastery, rational thinking, and ethical action. By implementing these principles, we can navigate today’s turbulent political climate with resilience, clarity, and peace of mind. In the words of Epictetus, “It’s not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters.” 

If you enjoyed this article and are intrigued by stoicism, my new book will be released shortly Stoicism Through Resilience, A Modern Gude to Inner Peace. The subtitle is “Applying Ancient Wisdom to overcome Anxiety, Anger and Depression. It is a short read with a plethora of helpful techniques. It will be available in Kindle and book form. Stay tuned!