#306 - What is a Stoic Sage?

In moments of reflection on what we are doing with our lives, the thought can creep up: Am I doing enough? Could I be doing more good in my life? The Stoics have their fair share of radical ideas, but one that may be tremendously useful in the contemplation of this question is that there is no such thing as the idea of doing “more good” in Stoicism. Wherever you are right now is where you are supposed to be, and you can only act appropriately - no more, no less. Of course, unless you are a Sage. But what is a Sage? And is this idea in Stoicism a useful one, or does it simply hold back our ambitions?SummaryIn this conversation, the host explores the concept of the Stoic Sage and the idea of acting virtuously. The Stoic Sage is a person who can do no wrong and always acts in accordance with nature. However, the host acknowledges that the idea of a perfect sage is not realistic. Instead, he suggests that we can look to individuals in our lives who embody qualities of wisdom, kindness, and strength as examples of the Stoic Sage. TakeawaysThe Stoic Sage is a person who can do no wrong and always acts in accordance with nature.The idea of a perfect sage is not realistic, but we can look to individuals in our lives who embody qualities of wisdom, kindness, and strength as examples of the Stoic Sage.Instead of striving for perfection, we should focus on acting appropriately in each present moment.Chapters00:00Introduction and Setting the Context03:20The Concept of the Stoic Sage04:17The Imperfection of the Sage05:07Defining the Qualities of a Sage06:03Different Personalities of Sages07:00Living According to Nature08:00The Actions of a Sage09:54No Such Thing as Doing More Good10:23The Indifference of Yelling11:20Different Sages, Different Contexts12:16The Outcome is Irrelevant13:14Acting Appropriately in the Present Moment18:28Gradual Improvement and Self-Forgiveness30:52Connecting the Questions to the Stoic SageThis episode is also available on YouTube.Transcripts can be found on Substack: https://strongstoic.substack.com/Find this episode on:https://linktr.ee/Strongstoic The Strong Stoic Podcast is a raw, honest, and unapologetically deep podcast about philosophy and self-improvement. Join your host, Brandon Tumblin, as he breaks down a wide variety of complex and difficult topics aimed at provoking thought and opening your perspective.This podcast is listener-supported; if you would like to support the Strong Stoic (as well as gain access to exclusive content), you can do so on Patreon or Substack:Patreon: www.patreon.com/brandontumblinSubstack: https://strongstoic.substack.com