A Stoic Mindset in Challenging Times

By Rose O. Sherman, EdD, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN

The COVID-19 pandemic is testing even the most optimistic of leaders. Unlike most crisis situations, there is no discreet end to this. When the new normal begins is up in the air. We see some states starting to reopen but public confidence will play a huge role in how willing people are to resume their activities – which includes seeking healthcare. The threat of a second wave of the virus is real. Even with a new normal, the financial pressures for the healthcare industry will be very challenging. So how should nurse leaders respond?

I recently read the work of Ryan Hall, a well-known marathon runner. I love his quote that “At the start of a 26.2-mile race, the distance is overwhelming, but the only mile I have to run is the one I’m in. Worrying about the miles remaining could paralyze me in the current moment, could discourage me or drag me down. I know I can run a mile. I’ve run thousands of miles in my lifetime.”

It is a healthy way of looking at adversity. It reminded me of what I have learned about stoicism from a friend who maintained this mindset through an incredible set of life challenges. Stoicism is a Hellenistic school of philosophy, founded by Zeno of Citium in the early 3rd century BC. Most famous practitioners of this philosophy include Epictetus, Seneca, and the great Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius who published meditations on the topic.

Although it is an old philosophy, Stoicism has regained popularity because it is so relevant to today’s life, especially in the present moment. It focuses on self-reflection regarding two major questions. The first is How can we live a fulfilling and happy life. The second is How can we become better human beings? The goal of Stoicism is to attain inner peace by overcoming adversity, practicing self-control, being conscious of our impulses, realizing our lives are in fact very short and we have a choice in how we respond to adversity. Stoic principles include the following:

Acknowledge that all emotions come from within and only we have the ability to control our responses to situations. Stoics firmly believe that it is not what happens that matters but how we react to it.
Staying present will reduce our stress. Stoics believe we need to learn to be patient and practice self-restraint in situations even when every fiber of our being wants to take action.
There is life after extreme adversity. Stoics believe that we need to recognize that life is short and it is temporary. We can overcome negative situations if we choose to. When faced with adversity– ask yourself what is the worst thing that could happen and start from there.
Challenge yourself to be brutally honest about situations and check your perceptions with someone you trust. Stoics believe that we need to investigate what motivates us, what drives us, and what demotivates us.
Recognize that time is precious and don’t waste it on things that don’t matter or procrastinate things that need to be done.
Recognize that adversity is part of life. Stoics will never tell you that life is easy and there will be no challenges.
Worry only about that which you can control. Stoics believe that you don’t always get to choose what role you play in life and we need to accept the reality we are given.
Be grateful – always be grateful for it is the key to happiness.

The stoic philosophy is a series of ideas and tips for living our best life, overcoming our challenges, and ultimately achieving happiness on our life’s journey. It has served men well for thousands of years and could be valuable as we manage our emotions in the current crisis.

Read Rose Sherman’s book – The Nurse Leader Coach: Become the Boss No One Wants to Leave