The Stoic Handbook with Jon Brooks

The 4 Stoic Virtues: Your Compass for a Meaningful Life

Jon Brooks

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Ever feel like you're drifting through life without a clear moral compass? The ancient Stoics had an answer: four timeless virtues that can transform how you handle stress, make decisions, and find meaning.

In this episode of Stoic Handbook, Jon Brooks breaks down wisdom, courage, justice, and temperance – the four cardinal virtues that philosophers like Marcus Aurelius and Epictetus used to navigate everything from personal anxiety to leading empires.

You'll discover:

  • Wisdom: How to see reality clearly and focus on what you can control (with a modern work deadline example)
  • Courage: Why acting on your principles matters more than physical bravery (plus the truth about Stoic tattoos!)
  • Justice: How treating others fairly becomes the source of all other virtues
  • Temperance: The art of balance in a world of excess and distraction

Jon shares practical daily exercises, modern examples, and explains why these 2,000-year-old principles are more relevant than ever in our chaotic world. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, seeking clarity, or just want to be a better human, this episode gives you a framework that actually works.

Perfect for: Anyone new to Stoicism, people struggling with emotional resilience, or philosophy enthusiasts looking for practical wisdom.

Resources mentioned: Marcus Aurelius' Meditations, Epictetus' Enchiridion, Modern Stoicism website