In Marcus Aurelius’s “Meditations,” he urges us to scrutinize the guiding principles of the wise, observing both their pursuits and aversions. Seneca echoes this reflective practice and emphasizes the pivotal role of wise individuals in our lives. They serve as benchmarks against which we measure our conduct and decisions. But how do we identify these paragons of wisdom, and how can we emulate their behavior?
“Take a good hard look at people’s ruling principle, especially of the wise, what they run away from and what they seek out.”
—MARCUS AURELIUS, MEDITATIONS, 4.38
The Role of the Wise
Seneca’s assertion, “Without a ruler to do it against, you can’t make crooked straight,” encapsulates wise individuals’ pivotal role in our lives. They serve as moral compasses and as essential architects of our understanding of right and wrong. Their influence stretches beyond mere admiration; they offer a framework through which we can assess our values and decisions, guiding us toward a life of integrity.
Wise individuals embody virtues that resonate deeply within us—integrity, compassion, humility, and courage. These attributes manifest in their daily actions and interactions, shaping their relationships and how they engage with the world. For instance, a wise person’s ability to practice empathy allows them to connect with others profoundly, creating a ripple effect that encourages those around them to embrace similar values. This is not just a one-way street; their wisdom influences our behavior and inspires us to adopt these virtues.
Moreover, the wise understand the complex interplay between thought and action. They demonstrate a remarkable level of self-awareness that enables them to respond thoughtfully rather than impulsively. This self-awareness is crucial; it allows them to recognize their limitations and the context in which they operate, fostering a sense of humility that encourages others to do the same. Their wisdom becomes a guiding force, illuminating paths that may have remained obscured.
In addition to their virtuous conduct, wise individuals also embody the understanding that life is a series of choices, each with its consequences. They illustrate that wisdom is not a static achievement but an evolving practice that requires continual effort and reflection. Their lives encourage us to ask critical questions about our own motivations. What do we seek to emulate? What do we wish to avoid? The wise compel us to reflect on these questions, offering a framework for personal growth and moral clarity.
Choosing Your Role Models
The process of choosing a role model is deeply subjective, shaped by our personal experiences, values, and aspirations. For many, the foundational figures are family members—parents or guardians—who impart life lessons through both their words and actions. The sacrifices made by a mother or father often serve as powerful motivators, instilling a sense of duty and a desire to honor their legacy through our own choices. The values they espouse become a blueprint, guiding our actions and decision-making processes.
However, the search for role models is not limited to familial figures. The vast tapestry of history and contemporary thought offers many individuals who embody various ideals. The writings of philosophers like Marcus Aurelius or Aristotle provide rich reservoirs of wisdom, inviting us to reflect on our principles and values. Their ideas challenge us to engage in deeper moral contemplation, inspiring us to adopt philosophies that resonate with our journeys.
In literature, figures like Maya Angelou, Leo Tolstoy, or more contemporary writers such as Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie provide narratives that prompt us to consider the moral implications of our actions. Their works often explore themes of justice, identity, and resilience, encouraging readers to engage with the world more thoughtfully. The choice of role models can also extend to public figures who advocate for social justice, environmental sustainability, or personal development, demonstrating that influence can come from diverse avenues.
The “What Would Jesus Do?” idea resonates profoundly for many, prompting moral introspection and action. This question is a moral litmus test, encouraging us to align our decisions with higher ethical standards. Regardless of who our models are, the act of observation—paying close attention to their choices, fears, and aspirations—provides fertile ground for personal development. Ultimately, choosing a role model involves identifying someone whose principles resonate with our aspirations, igniting a passion for growth and self-improvement.
The Power of Observation
Observing the wise transcends mere admiration; it requires a vigilant and analytical mindset. This process involves meticulously examining their choices and the principles underpinning their actions. It’s crucial to recognize that wisdom is not solely about achieving success; it is equally about navigating and learning from setbacks. The wise provide a template for understanding the complexities of life, illuminating both the paths of triumph and the lessons gleaned from failure.
Consider the wise as living case studies. Their triumphs provide a glimpse into the potential outcomes of thoughtful decision-making, while their failures reveal the pitfalls that can arise from human fallibility. Observing how they handle adversity gives us invaluable insights into resilience and adaptability. For instance, how does a wise leader respond to criticism? What strategies do they employ to maintain their composure during tumultuous times? These observations illuminate the qualities we may wish to cultivate within ourselves.
Furthermore, the power of observation extends beyond their visible actions. It encompasses their thought processes, interactions with others, and reflections on their experiences. Engaging with their writings, speeches, or interviews can enhance our understanding of their guiding principles. This deeper engagement fosters a nuanced perspective, enabling us to internalize the lessons they offer. The act of observation becomes an exercise in empathy, allowing us to understand their motivations and the context in which they operate.
Moreover, wise individuals often share their experiences and insights in various formats—books, interviews, lectures, or social media. Consuming these materials thoughtfully allows us to absorb and apply their philosophies to our lives. It’s not just about what they say but how they say it; their tone, the context, and the anecdotes they share can all provide rich layers of meaning. Watching becomes an enriching experience, transforming passive admiration into active learning.
Emulating the Wise
To emulate the wise is to embark on a transformative journey that involves introspection and conscious choice. It requires us to distill the essence of their teachings and integrate them into our lives, crafting a unique path that honors their influence while remaining true to our individuality. This is not about becoming a carbon copy of our role models but about adopting the core values and principles that resonate with us.
Engagement with the wisdom of others often begins with reflection on our values. What do we stand for? What kind of person do we aspire to be? Once we clarify our values, we can actively seek out behaviors that align with them. For example, if we admire a wise individual’s commitment to social justice, we might seek opportunities to engage in community service or advocate for equitable policies. This active engagement reinforces our commitment to personal growth and moral development.
Moreover, it is essential to practice discernment. Not every wise individual’s action will be applicable to our lives, and it is crucial to filter their behaviors through the lens of our circumstances. What works for one person may not be suitable for another. This process of selective emulation encourages us to take ownership of our growth, ensuring that we remain authentic while adopting new practices.
As we strive to emulate the wise, we should remain open to feedback and reflection. Engaging with mentors or trusted friends can provide valuable perspectives on our progress. This dialogue fosters accountability and enriches our understanding of the principles we are working to embody. By sharing our experiences and challenges, we cultivate a community of growth and learning, further reinforcing our commitment to the journey of wisdom.
The Journey of Wisdom
The path of wisdom is not a linear journey but a rich tapestry woven with experiences, reflections, and growth. It invites us to remain curious, to continually question our beliefs and assumptions, and to adapt our understanding as we encounter new challenges and insights. This journey is marked by an openness to learning, whether from the wise individuals we admire or from our own experiences.
In pursuing wisdom, it is vital to cultivate a growth mindset—an attitude that embraces the idea that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. This mindset fosters resilience, enabling us to bounce back from failures and view them as opportunities for learning. The wise reminds us that setbacks are not endpoints but stepping stones to greater understanding.
As we navigate this journey, we must also be mindful of the importance of community. Engaging with like-minded individuals who are committed to growth can create a supportive environment that fosters mutual learning. Conversations with others about their experiences and perspectives can deepen our understanding and enrich our own journey. In this collective pursuit of wisdom, we learn from the wise and inspire and uplift one another, creating a ripple effect that extends beyond ourselves.
Ultimately, the journey of wisdom is a lifelong endeavor, a continuous process of self-discovery, reflection, and growth. As we strive to observe, emulate, and learn from the wise, we enrich our lives and contribute to the wisdom of those around us. By embracing this journey with an open heart and mind, we pave the way for a life characterized by purpose, integrity, and a profound understanding of the human experience.
Daily Stoic Meditation: What Ruler Do I Measure Myself Against?
Who’s your role model? My first role model is my dad. He is one of the most amazing people I have met. I don’t say this because he’s my dad; I say so because I admire his sense of satisfaction and contentment. He understands his role in any given situation and takes care of everyone.
I never knew my grandfather too well when he was alive. I never took the time to get to know him and hear his stories. We shared a strong bond, but I never asked him about his good old days. I can’t begin to tell you the stories I heard about him from his brothers after he had passed. I never knew that he was an Urdu poet, for instance. I still wish I could hear those stories from my baba.
My father often says he isn’t even 1% of my grandfather’s personality. I jokingly reply that I feel I am not 1% of my father’s personality. In many ways, it’s true. I have formidable people in my family and so I don’t need to go far to search for inspiration and motivation.
My family tells me that I have many of the same traits as my grandfather, such as intellect, a no-nonsense attitude, excellent vocabulary, a shared love for writing, and an affinity for culture, to name a few. So, I don’t have to do much when I want to set lofty standards. I have the perfect role model.
Out of habit, I find people who could become my mentors wherever I go. These are people whom I think are good at what they do and whom I would want to emulate. The way these people conduct themselves resonates with me. I don’t know how to describe what I see in them, but there’s a gut feeling I have about them that has yet to fail me.
Conclusion: A Life of Purpose
The wise play an indispensable role in the grand tapestry of life. They are the architects of our moral landscape, guiding us through the stormy seas of existence. By examining their ruling principles and the duality of their actions, we can carve out a path infused with meaning and purpose.
Ultimately, the journey towards wisdom is ongoing. It challenges us to be vigilant, to reflect deeply, and to engage actively with the world around us. As we observe the wise, let us learn from their successes and glean insights from their challenges. In doing so, we become more than mere spectators; we become architects of our destinies, empowered by the knowledge and example of those who have walked before us.
This article is a part of The Daily Stoic Meditations Series based on Ryan Holiday’s book.