Stoicism Journal: Virtue in the Small Things

Telémaco, Mentor y Diana by Josep Vergara

We often imagine virtue as a grand, heroic act. But in my experience, I have found that virtue is more often found in the laundry room, at the dinner table, or in a quiet conversation with a friend or colleague. It is the quality of our attention and the kindness of our intent in these ordinary moments of life where I can most easily access virtue.

To that end, here are a few small, daily habits that I have cultivated in my own efforts to build a more virtuous life:

THE VIRTUE OF PRESENCE

Spending time with my kids—whether taking my daughter to an activity or sharing a meal afterward—isn't just a parental "task." It is a practice of being fully present with someone I love unconditionally. To the Stoics, our family is our first circle of concern. To me, being a good dad means showing up with a mind that isn't elsewhere, and committing to being present with the time I get with my loved ones.

THE VIRTUE OF ORDER

It may seem mundane, but I have found cleaning the house and doing laundry to be a powerful form of self-discipline. Stoicism teaches that a cluttered environment often reflects (or creates) a cluttered mind. Taking care of my surroundings is a way of respecting the space I inhabit and the life I aspire to lead.

THE VIRTUE OF CONNECTION

A meaningful conversation with my mom, or time spent with my closest friends, is food for the soul. We humans are social animals, and Stoicism reminds us that we are part of a larger whole. These connections aren't distractions from a philosophical life; they are the purpose of it.

THE VIRTUE OF MENTORSHIP

At work, I try to share my experiences to help mentor colleagues through challenging situations. This is a direct application of the Stoic idea of "cosmopolitanism"—viewing others as fellow citizens who deserve our help. When I help a peer navigate a storm I have already weathered, I am not just being productive. I am practicing virtue as well.

CHARACTER THROUGH VIRTUE

Virtue isn't a destination to be reached; it is a way of traveling. When I look back at a day filled with small, virtuous acts, I see that I am building a life of character—one load of laundry, one laugh with a loved one, and one conversation at a time.