The Art of Letting Go

If one suspects that someone in their life may be toxic, they need to ask themselves the following questions: Do I feel physically or emotionally exhausted after spending time with them? Am I uncomfortable at the thought of interacting with them? Do I feel less confident or satisfied with my life after interacting with them? Do they make me question me own beliefs and boundaries? Are my needs, thoughts, and feelings disregarded by them?

Waking up in the morning, individuals are advised to take a few deep breaths and bring attention to their body and their surroundings. As they get out of bed, they notice the sensation of their feet touching the floor, the temperature of the room, and the sounds around them. As they brush their teeth, they need to pay attention to the sensation of the bristles against their teeth and gums, the taste of the toothpaste, and the movements of their hands and arms. As they take a shower, they feel the water on their skin, smell the soap or shampoo, and notice any thoughts or feelings that arise. Throughout the morning routine, they try to stay present and engaged with each moment, rather than letting one’s mind wander or getting lost in thoughts or worries about the day ahead. By cultivating this sort of present-moment awareness, people can begin to develop a deeper sense of inner peace and calm and become better equipped to navigate the ups and downs of daily life

A crucial aspect of the Stoic practice of the dichotomy of control is cultivating a constant focus on the present moment. This means training one’s mind to be fully engaged with what is happening right now, rather than being distracted by worries or regrets about the past, or anxieties or expectations about the future.

its core, it's a philosophy that encourages people to focus only on those things they can control, and to let go of everything else.

By using one's faculty of judgment to develop rational beliefs, one's faculty of desire to seek rational desires, and one's faculty of will to make responsible decisions and take action, individuals can achieve their goals and live a fulfilling life.

faculty of will is responsible for one’s intentions, decisions, and actions. It allows people to act on their desires and to make decisions about how to live their lives. Epictetus believed that people should use this faculty to make wise decisions and to take responsible actions.

The faculty of desire is responsible for one’s desires and fears. It allows them to seek pleasure and avoid pain.

faculty of judgment is responsible for one's thoughts, emotions, and beliefs. It allows people to make judgments about what is true and false, good and bad, and right and wrong. Epictetus believed that people should use this faculty to develop accurate and rational beliefs about the world

By focusing on what is within one’s control and cultivating the right mindset, people can achieve inner peace, freedom, and a good life, regardless of external circumstances

Unlike animals, people have the power to reflect on their thoughts, emotions, and actions, and to choose how they want to live their lives.