Marcus Aurelius Antoninus was Roman emperor from 161 to 180 AD and a stoic philosopher. He is regarded as the last of the Five Good Emperors of Rome. His philosophy offers timeless wisdom and guidance, drawing from stoic principles that can inspire, empower and positively influence our lives today.
One of the key tenets of his philosophy is the acceptance of the natural course of events, including the inevitability of change and death. Marcus Aurelius constantly reminded himself of life’s transient nature and encouraged a mindset of acceptance rather than resistance.
His main life lessons include:
Control your thoughts – Marcus Aurelius emphasized the importance of controlling one’s own thoughts. Inner peace comes from mastering your mind and focusing on what you can control.
“The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts.”
Accept What You Cannot Change – Stoicism teaches that some things are beyond our control, and Marcus Aurelius reminds us to accept those things with grace, focusing on how we respond to them instead.
“You have power over your mind – not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.”
Live in the Present Moment – He stressed the importance of living in the present as the past is unchangeable and the future uncertain.
“Confine yourself to the present.”
Do Not Be Distracted by Trivialities – This is a warning against letting unimportant things take up your time and mental energy. Instead, focus on the things that truly matter.
“It is not death that a man should fear, but he should fear never beginning to live.”
Embrace Adversity as a Path to Growth – Stoics see challenges as opportunities for growth. Adversity strengthens character.
“The impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way.”
Be Kind and Just to Others – Even in positions of power, Marcus Aurelius advocated for treating others with kindness, understanding, and justice.
“Waste no more time arguing about what a good man ( or woman) should be. Be one.”
Let Go of the Fear of Death – It is important that we accept mortality as death ( from this existence) is a natural part of this life. Fearing death only prevents us from living this life to the best of our ability.
“It is not death that we should fear, but we should fear never beginning to live.”
Practice Self Discipline – Maintaining self discipline is a core Stoic practice. Developing self control over desires and impulses leads to inner freedom and mastery.
“If it is not right, do not do it; if it is not true, do not say it.”
Focus on Your Duty –It is important to fulfill one’s duty to family, community, and oneself. Doing what is required without complaint leads to a virtuous life.
“Do every act of your life as though it were the very last act of your life.”
Do Not Let Praise or Criticism Sway You – Marcus warns against allowing the opinions of others, whether praise or criticism, dictate your sense of self worth.
“Take no notice of the thoughts of others, but do what is right.”
Understand the Impermanence of Life – Life is fleeting so we should make the most of the time we have.
“Soon you will have forgotten the world, and soon the world will have forgotten you”
Keep Calm in the Face of Chaos – Maintaining a calm and rational mind in times of difficulty or chaos is crucial to living a good life.
“How much more grievous are the consequences of anger than the causes of it.”
As we move into our 2025 journey, I hope that these insights from Marcus Aurelius will help us to cultivate inner strength, embrace challenges and foster personal growth. May these lessons be a source of encouragement as we navigate our journey through life with a renewed sense of purpose and optimism in 2025!
Happy New Year!
16 thoughts on “12 ancient lessons from marcus aurelius (that will make us better people in 2025!)”
A great set of lessons on life from a great philosophical emperor.
As we start the first full working week of 2025.
A little read to help reinforce your thinking for the year ahead.
As a huge FAN of quotes, this feels like finding a hidden present post-Christmas! Seriously, I’ve never heard of Marcus Aurelius. Though a couple of quotes looked familiar. Like the one on the quality of our thoughts. m embracing this one immediately “Waste no more time arguing about what a good man ( or woman) should be. Be one.” *Gold*
I have forgotten about the Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius Antoninus. His words are powerful! I’m pinning this for reference. Thank you!
Marcus Aurelius was clearly a wise man! I really enjoyed reading these ancient words fo wisdom from him.
“The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts.”
Imagine being able to control one’s thoughts. The total freedom one would have.
i loved studying ancient roman history in school. thanks for sharing these lessons that we can all learn from him.
” Happy New Year Indigo and thanks for this “
Happy New Year!
“Accept what you cannot change and control your thoughts” is my moto for the year!
LOVED this article! This was such an inspiring reflection on the wisdom of Marcus Aurelius. This is just what I needed to reflect on the timeless lessons that encourage strength, growth, and mindfulness as I step into the new year.
I really enjoyed this post—such a refreshing take on applying Marcus Aurelius’s wisdom to modern life! These lessons feel so relevant and inspiring for personal growth in 2025. 😊
Influential quotes for 2025 with words of wisdom from Marcus Aurelius. Quotes to focus on throughout the year.
So profound, insightful and thought provoking. For me this was the perfect read to begin the new year. Sad that we no longer have philosophers such as this…but we do have Antonia (Indigo Life Coach), so not so sad.
WOW! Each of these statements by Marcus Aurelius makes so much sense. Clearly, he was a wise man and there is so much we can learn from his wisdom.
Just what I need at the start of the new year – thank you.
Your mind is wonderful and dynamic
“ Control your thoughts” Blessings for 2025 and beyond