Many storms sweep through our lives. Natural, weather-related storms as well as emotional ones. A serious health issue, ending of a relationship, tragic loss, or something else. The reality is that we all go through storms. It’s not a matter of if, but when. Storms are inevitable. Some are more difficult than others. And some we create ourselves.
Storms can teach us about our foundations. When life feels out of control, we must have a solid foundation. But how do we weather the storms of life?
Like a tree!
Just like a tree, we need a strong, solid foundation, both in our personal and professional lives. The strong roots keep us stable and grounded, no matter what life throws our way, no matter how successful we become, or how high we climb in life. A tree with deep, strong roots is a powerful metaphor for stability, resilience, and inner strength.
Some people appear strong on the surface. They seem to be thriving. But when the storms of life arrive, they find themselves uprooted. They are pulled in many different directions. Like a leaf blowing in the wind, tossed this way and that. The storms reveal a shaky foundation.
The storms of life are often unpredictable.
We don’t see them coming. For a tree to withstand storms, it must have strong roots. Roots that grow deep into the ground, holding the tree steady. Just like a tree, our strength and resilience start from the ground up. For us to get through tough times, we must have a strong inner foundation. Foundation that keeps us standing firm. And when the storms of life roll in, we feel anchored. Of course, the storms will test us, but they don’t destroy us.
I have been through many storms in my own life. What has helped me to prepare for the unpredictable nature of life? What has helped me stay grounded when dealing with life’s ups and downs?
Over the years, I have integrated Stoic practices into my life.
Stoicism is an ancient philosophy that dates back to the Greek and Roman times. The teachings of Seneca, Epictetus, and Aurelius have provided me with a very useful framework for navigating the challenges of modern life. Like everyone, I have very little control over most things in life – weather, traffic, or other people’s opinions. I can try and influence these things, but ultimately, I don’t have control over them.
Stoic principles have helped me to stay grounded in our fast-paced world. They have guided me towards a more balanced, peaceful, and meaningful existence. When things aren’t going my way, I identify what is and isn’t in my control. I don’t waste my energy on things I can’t control. Instead, I shift my focus from external to internal… to my thoughts and emotions. I try to respond rather than react to external events.
This is called the “dichotomy of control”, one of the core principles of Stoic philosophy.
The storms of life are out of my control, but a strong foundation keeps me upright. Stoic philosophy offers timeless wisdom that is still relevant today, no matter what the circumstances, no matter what trials come my way. Some of the stoic principles appear simple. But stoicism is not a quick-fix approach – rather a lifelong practice and a way of living.
You may be going through your own storm of life right now. How firm is your inner foundation? Are you feeling like your whole life is on shaky ground? Ready to crumble.
It’s never too late to start improving your foundation… a foundation that gives you the inner strength to weather every storm, every challenge, and overcome any obstacle in your path.
Eila Mikkonen
Counsellor, Clinical Supervisor & Mental Fitness Facilitator