Life is busy. It can be stressful, exciting, overwhelming—all at once. With so much going on, it’s easy to forget to focus on the present moment and take care of ourselves. That’s why we sometimes need Stoic reminders—because gaining perspective isn’t always our first instinct.
In the morning, a quote from Marcus Aurelius might set the tone for your day. In the afternoon, a piece of Seneca’s wisdom could help clear your mind. By evening, a thought from Epictetus might refocus you on what truly matters.
But when life gets hectic, it’s hard to recall these insights exactly when you need them most. Your mind is too busy worrying about yesterday’s mistakes or tomorrow’s to-do list. That’s where Stoic reminders come in. It’s worth noting that reminders alone aren’t enough if one wants to really practice Stoicism, but they can form a useful component of such a practice.
Making Stoicism Part of Your Day
Rather than hoping wisdom will magically appear in your thoughts, you can take a more practical approach—by setting up reminders you can’t miss throughout your day. This way, Stoic ideas start shaping your mindset naturally, without extra effort.
If you’re trying to cut down on screen time or Stoic-themed phone wallpapers don’t appeal to you, there’s an even simpler option: post-it notes.
Post-it Notes
Post-it notes are inexpensive, customizable, and easy to place where you’ll see them often. Here are a few ways to use them as Stoic reminders:
1. The Device Reminder
Even though Seneca and the other Stoics didn’t deal with social media, they understood the importance of stepping away and clearing the mind. Placing a reminder on your phone or laptop can help you be more mindful of your screen time.
Here are some great quotes for this:
We should take wandering outdoor walks, so that the mind might be nourished and refreshed by the open air and deep breathing.
Seneca, On Tranquility of Mind
Dwell on the beauty of life. Watch the stars, and see yourself running with them.
Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 7.47
As long as you honour material things, direct your anger at yourself rather than the thief or adulterer.
Epictetus, Discourses 1.18.12
2. The Alarm Clock Reminder
Mornings can be tough, but starting the day with a Stoic mindset can make all the difference. Stick a note next to your alarm clock, so it’s the first thing you see when you wake up.
A perfect quote for this:
When you first rise in the morning tell yourself: I will encounter busybodies, ingrates, egomaniacs, liars, the jealous, and cranks.
Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 2.1
3. The Workout Reminder
Exercise isn’t just about the body—it’s about mental strength too. A well-placed Stoic reminder can help keep both in balance.
Where to place it:
- On your protein shaker or gym bag
- On your exercise equipment (like a treadmill)
- Anywhere you’ll see it before or during a workout
Quotes to consider:
Difficulties are the things that show what men are. Hence, when a difficulty falls upon you, remember that God, like a trainer of wrestlers, has matched you with a rough young man. “For what purpose?” you may say. Why, that you should become an Olympic conqueror; but it is not accomplished without sweat.
Epictetus, Discourses 1.24
Either pain affects the body (which is the body’s problem) or it affects the soul. But the soul can choose not to be affected, preserving its own serenity, its own tranquillity. All our decisions, urges, desires, aversions lie within. No evil can touch them.
Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 8.28
More Places for Stoic Reminders
There’s no limit to where you can place Stoic wisdom. Here are a few more ideas:
- On your desk—to keep you focused at work
- Near your TV—to remind you not to overindulge
- On the fridge—because you’ll see it several times a day
By making Stoic wisdom a regular part of your environment, you’ll find it easier to stay grounded, focused, and mindful—without even trying.
