The most important Stoic idea: you only control your thoughts, actions, and responses. You do not control outcomes, other people, or external events. Suffering happens when you try to control what cannot be controlled.
🟢 In Your Control
• Effort
• Decisions
• Discipline
• Attention
• Attitude
• Your responses
🔴 Not In Your Control
• Outcomes
• Other people
• Past events
• Weather
• Reputation
• External events
Decision Filter
Before any action, ask: 'Is this within my control?'
If yes — act. If no — accept.
Response Timer
Pause before reacting emotionally
A 5-10 second delay tool that prevents impulsive behavior
Action Log
Track disciplined vs reactive actions
Notice patterns in your responses over time
Dichotomy of Control — Sort What's Yours
In My Control
Not In My Control
The Dichotomy of Control — Practice Exercise
Name what's happening objectively, without judgment
What's in your control vs what's not
Release the struggle against the uncontrollable
Direct all energy to your response
Choose wisdom, courage, justice, or temperance
What did the dichotomy of control exercise reveal? What did you try to control that isn't yours?