Marcus Aurelius was a Roman emperor and philosopher, perhaps best known for his work Meditations. It is probably the most influential and well-known Stoic philosophy book in history, and I try to read it on an annual basis. This particular quote always stands out to me. I think his ancient wisdom can apply to our modern security needs just as well as it did for his philosophical peers in the Roman Empire.
“You have power over your mind – not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.”
Marcus Aurelius – Meditations
Security application from ancient wisdom
As I reflect back on the last few years, it has become increasingly obvious to me how little control we have over the events in our lives. We can have plans, goals, and preparations to be sure – but sometimes catastrophe or chaos strikes and the only thing we truly have control over is our minds – our mental resilience and response.
How we think about and interpret an event is the one thing we have full control over. And out of that comes strength. When we are able to honestly and calmly assess what is happening around us, and let go of trying to control everything, we can actually find greater freedom.
Our energy, instead of being wasted in complaining or fighting against what is happening around us, can instead be used to propel us through or around the event. We can take the hand we are dealt and use the most powerful tool our disposal – our mind – to analyze it and move forward.
Sometimes this means letting go or finding a new path – or perhaps just a different solution towards the same end goal. But it does not mean giving up. We may not have control over outside events, but we do have control over how we respond to them.
There is a strength and a peace of mind that comes when we are able to let go of controlling the world and instead focus on the path we will blaze through the chaos around us.
When it comes to personal security, all our tools, gear, and skill are only useful if we are prepared and resilient mentally to withstand the crisis. Thinking through potential emergency situations and how we would respond, both during and after, is foundational. The application of our knowledge and abilities will only be successful if we are mentally prepared to process and withstand the stress that comes with crisis.
So, consider this piece of ancient wisdom and take time to prepare you mind as well. Plan ahead. Practice stress inoculation. Spend time in meditation and prayer. Understand that the battle first must be fought inside your own mind – this is where we have control. And out of that will come strength.
What’s Next?
- As you find strength in your own mind, make sure you analyze the information you are putting in
- Build your mental fortitude while you master your mental awareness
- Create space for reflection and thoughtful consideration by adding buffers to your life
- Your physical health has a direct impact on your mental health. Check out 3 Ways Your Health Affects Your Personal Security
