Mind Over Martyr
Avoiding Stoic Burnout
Stoicism dominates philosophical discussions on self-improvement. It prioritises discipline, resilience, and enduring setbacks. It advises to stay calm under pressure and avoid emotional reactions to wins or losses. By concentrating on what they can control, Stoics remain balanced in the face of uncertainty. And many use these principles to navigate the challenges of trading. However, Stoicism is only one philosophy and has its drawbacks.
Its focus on shouldering hardship, much like carrying one's own cross to one's crucifixion, leads to burnout. When traders suppress emotions, stress accumulates like dirty dishes. Trading becomes a chore. Joy and satisfaction fade, replaced by obligation. And yet we are burdened to keep calm and carry on.
It's important to note, that the stoic philosophy laid out by Seneca is nuanced and a lot less acquisitive, toxic, antihuman and dumb than the stoicism promoted by certain internet personalities. I won't name any names because it's always the same faces. But honestly, Andrew Tate, if you're happy and you're Stoic crap your pants.
Epicureanism offers an alternative. This philosophy promotes peace of mind by reducing stress and fear. In trading, this means creating a balanced approach that prioritises sustainable methods and personal well-being. Epicureanism rejects spreading ourselves too thin and promotes practices that maintain both effectiveness and mental health.
An Epicurean trader seeks consistent, manageable gains instead of high-risk opportunities. They adopt methods that reduce emotional strain and keep trading sessions structured (i.e. not trading all day every day). Wins are appreciated, and losses are analysed without self-criticism. And traders step away from the market from time to time to recharge.
Epicureanism addresses the limitations of Stoicism. It avoids the emotional suppression and overwork that cause burnout. It promotes a mindset that balances effort with recovery. While Stoicism equips traders to endure challenges, Epicureanism provides a framework for enjoying the process and maintaining satisfaction. It shows traders that success does not require becoming a vessel for joyless productivity.
Some Epicurean aphorisms to find pleasure in:
- The time to enjoy pleasure is now.
- The pleasures of the body are limited.
- The pleasure of the mind is limitless.
- Wealth is not needed for happiness.
- The wise person does not wish for things that cause pain.
- Freedom is the greatest of all blessings.
- Living virtuously is necessary for happiness.
- One's own thoughts are the greatest treasure.
- The wise person is not disturbed by things that don't matter.
- We should minimise pain and maximise pleasure.
- Pain is to be avoided, but pleasure is to be pursued.
- The greatest pleasure is the absence of pain.
- The goal of life is happiness, and happiness comes from simple pleasures.
- True pleasure does not involve excessive indulgence.
- Friendship is one of the greatest pleasures.
- We should seek pleasure in moderation.
- Desires are not equal; some are necessary, others are unnecessary.
- Self-sufficiency brings peace.
- In seeking pleasure, one should be cautious of the pain that may follow.
- A simple life brings the greatest pleasure.
- Desires are sources of unhappiness when they are unfulfilled.
- Pleasure is the natural measure of good.
- Avoid the life of excess; cultivate balance.
- Life is best lived by pursuing long-term pleasure over short-term pleasure.
- No one is harmed by what is natural.
- True wealth is the absence of unnecessary desires.
- Philosophy helps to clear away the fear that disturbs the mind.
