☀️ Stoic Morning Minute: Boundaries The Stoic Way

The Ancient Art of Saying No

Make the best use of what is in your power, and take the rest as it happens.

Epictetus

💭 Modern Translation

Epictetus was essentially giving us the original boundary-setting masterclass. What's "in your power"? Your choices, your time, your energy, your values. What's not? Other people's expectations, demands, and opinions. Setting boundaries is simply the modern application of this ancient Stoic wisdom—deciding what's yours to carry and what isn't.

⚡️ Your Move

Today, identify your three biggest energy drains. For each one, create a simple boundary statement: "I will no longer ___." Practice saying it aloud (seriously—in front of a mirror). Remember, a boundary without communication is just a silent resentment. The Stoics valued clear speech almost as much as clear thinking.

🤔 Today's Question

Which part of your life feels most out of control right now, and what boundary would give you back your power?

Set those boundaries,

Jon

—Today’s newsletter is sponsored by MECO.

Clear inbox, clearer mind: The Stoic newsletter solution

That inbox anxiety spike? The Stoics would have hated it.

Meco lets you enjoy Simply Stoicism (and all your other newsletters) without the chaos. It's your digital quiet garden for contemplation—right on your phone.

Instantly clears newsletters from Gmail/Outlook

Creates a focused reading space worthy of a Stoic's morning reflection

Groups newsletters by topics that matter to you

30,000 people have found this path to digital tranquility.

The Stoics taught that peace comes from controlling what you can. Your inbox definitely qualifies.

Try Meco today.