The Stoic Guide for a New Year’s Resolution

As we stand at the starting line of a new year, we tend to reflect on the year that has passed and how we can do better during the next passing around the sun. New Year New Me resolutions often hover around topics like bigger, faster, richer, leaner, and stronger—and while all of these notions are great, they are somewhat shallow. Resolutions can also be an opportunity to deal with trauma and setbacks, and to give ourselves a new starting point.

What we recommend is a perspective that shifts our focus from external validation towards internal fulfillment and source of meaning. So, this year we want to provide some inspiration for a more meaningful and versatile perspective on the new year, based on one of our favorite philosophical schools of thought—Stoicism. Stoicism, championed by philosophers like Seneca and Marcus Aurelius, offers an alternative path to fulfillment and a life well-lived which is surprisingly versatile because it focuses on how you respond to events and thoughts instead of focusing on your surroundings.

So, without further ado—here’s the Coffee Talker’s top four inspiration guide for the best possible 2024.

Accept the Unpredictable Journey: In the face of life's uncertainties, accept the unpredictable with open arms. Sometimes the wind blows in your direction and other times you’re faced with setbacks and heartbreaks. Apply this principle to your resolutions. Set realistic goals, acknowledge the inevitability of setbacks, and use it as an opportunity to cultivate resilience and build character. This year, let unpredictability be a catalyst for growth rather than a deterrent to your aspirations.

Shift Your Mindset—from Outcomes to Your Responses: Stoicism teaches us the transformative power of mindset shifts. In the realm of resolutions, this means redirecting our focus from external outcomes to our responses. As you embark on your goals for the year, cultivate a positive and rational mindset—find peace and calmness not just in achieving your resolutions, but in how you conduct yourself on the journey.

Focus on The Small Things and Build Habits: Small, consistent changes in your daily routine not only lead to progress in your resolutions but also to the cultivation of building character. This year, commit to habits that align with the person you aspire to become instead of committing to lofty goals. We believe that long-term growth is a byproduct of strong character and a well-structured life. So, make your bed, take 40 deep breaths every morning, and see how the rest of the day falls into place. 

Celebrate Progress and Accept Imperfection: Progress over perfection is an honorable goal in itself and incremental progress is powerful when compounded over time. In your pursuit of resolutions remember to appreciate the journey, celebrate every small victory, and assess how you respond to setbacks. As Rocky Balboa said it “it’s not about how hard you can hit, but about how much punishment you can take and keep moving forward.” Leave the burden of perfection in 2023 and accept imperfection with gratitude. By doing so, you'll find fulfillment not only in the achievement of goals but in the incremental progress that paves your path and forms your character.

So, our recommendation is to let go of the pursuit of external validation and pursue the truly good life—A life well-lived driven by internal values and motivations.

We hope you have a fantastic 2024 and until next time.

Scott and Lennart