“Is this necessary?”

09272020

“Most of what we say and do is not essential. If you can eliminate it, you’ll have more time, and more tranquility. Ask yourself at every moment, ‘Is this necessary?’” – Marcus Aurelius, Meditations.

How often do we simply react in words and/or in actions without thinking. The truth is, most of what we covet, most of what we react to (unthinkingly) does not make our lives better. In fact, it is most likely the opposite. It is the reason our lives aren’t any better.

This week, ask yourself before doing ask, “Do you need it? Will it make you happier? Or will it add to your stress?” And before reacting to others ask, “Does it need to be said? Will it make them happier? Or will you simply add to their stress?”

Remember Marcus’s advice this week, “If you seek tranquility, do less.”