Because I am just such a Renaissance Man, I noticed a very cool overlap between Buddhist teachings and Stoic philosophy. The two different schools of thought – both thousands of years old – came up with the same idea that remains perfectly relevant today.

You know that voice in all our heads? The one constantly yammering, but frequently saying something unconstructive about us, the situation we face or the people around us? Apparently that voice isn’t new, because both the Buddhists and Stoics both made a huge point of teaching their followers to isolate that voice and realize it isn’t “you.”

Done properly, it’s a hugely powerful approach to gaining better control over yourself and your life. I bring this up because I tripped across a really good article on the subject. It does a wonderful job of expanding upon the concept and giving some very practical ways to implement it.

It’s definitely worth a read!

How to Be Happier Without Really Trying: 4 Odd Secrets from Research