Marcus Aurelius: These are enough: sound judgment in the…

A useful philosophy must survive an ordinary Tuesday. It should help when you are deciding what to say, finishing a task, or receiving news you did not want. This short instruction offers three checks. First, see the situation without adding a dramatic story to it. Second, do the next decent and constructive thing, remembering that other people are affected by your conduct. Third, receive the result without demanding that life match your preferences. These practices belong together. Clear thinking prevents needless alarm; service keeps us from becoming self-absorbed; acceptance prevents resentment after we have done our part. Try using them at a point of friction today. Before sending the sharp reply or abandoning the task, ask: What is true here? What action helps? What must I allow? The answers may be simple, but returning to them repeatedly builds a life with direction and composure.