The Power of Stoicism in Today’s World

Donald Robertson is a writer and trainer, with over twenty years’ experience. He’s a specialist in teaching evidence-based psychological skills and known as an expert on the relationship between modern cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and classical Greek and Roman philosophy. With a deep desire to learn, understand, and find a philosophy that resonated with his pursuits, Donald embarked on a broad adventure into self-development. Stoicism and CBT became his primary focus and led him to author six books on these subjects. 

Learn one; do one; teach one. By getting our thoughts out from our head, it not only gives the thought movement but may be of help to others—which always leads to helping ourselves. Whether it affirms or differs from our perspectives, connecting and sharing what we learn is always valuable. The hiccup lies with our aversion to risk and vulnerability. Donald believes the one who risks learns the most. 

Donald offers one of two perspectives on the current pandemic which is how to avoid non-credible health-related information and discusses his second perspective and bigger concern through the view of stoicism: the pandemic of anger within our souls and society. Unless we consider viewing our world through multiple perspectives, divisiveness and anger will prevail indefinitely. The inconsistencies we experience and display as human beings are certainly not rare, but the idea is to iron out those contradictions and show up in authenticity and constancy of character. 

In the latest episode of The Everyday Millionaire, Donald shares his definitions of stoicism and why he feels the study of stoicism and virtue ethics—the moral philosophy of self-improvement—is a fundamental philosophy to embody as a leader. He also clears up and defines two different concepts: cognitive dissonance and cognitive distancing. Tune in to find out how Donald defines himself and shows up within the arena of philosophy and stoicism.