Say Hello

In this episode of Navigate the Day, I reflect on Seneca’s reminder that so much of our suffering comes not from the present moment, but from rehearsing misery that hasn’t even happened. Worrying about what might go wrong—or clinging too tightly to what we fear losing—only robs us of the peace available right now.

This past week, I’ve struggled with my own battles—feeling weak, scattered, and caught in cycles of regret and distraction. I’ve wrestled with questions of strength, identity, and whether I’m truly living by the principles I believe in. Yet in that struggle, I’ve also seen how important it is to strip away the inessential, face the fears that keep me stuck, and remind myself that life is only ever lived in the present.

This isn’t about pretending everything is easy or perfect—it’s about finding small steps toward peace, grounding myself in today rather than being crushed by an imagined tomorrow. If you’ve ever felt weighed down by anxiety or regret, I think you’ll resonate with what I share here.

Thank you for listening and joining me on my journey of self-discovery!

Mediations and Prompts influenced from The Daily Stoic Books

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Say Hello

This week I’ve been thinking about how much of life we fill with unnecessary thoughts, actions, and distractions. Marcus Aurelius reminds us that peace of mind doesn’t come from doing everything—it comes from doing only what is necessary, and doing it well. Too often, I find myself caught in cycles of overthinking, catastrophizing, and dwelling on the negative. Even with years of studying Stoicism, I still struggle to apply these lessons consistently in my life.

I’ve noticed my habits have improved from a few years ago, yet I’ve grown stagnant in my progress. My mornings, once full of discipline, meditation, and exercise, have fallen into late nights and wasted hours. I cling to distractions, like media or conversation, to avoid facing the discomfort of my own thoughts. And when I do, I realize how much unnecessary energy I spend on things that don’t truly matter.

Stoicism reminds me that my judgments create my suffering—not the circumstances themselves. Yet I often let emotions take control, allowing setbacks, regrets, and fears to shape my day. I see now how much unnecessary weight I’ve added to life, and how much freedom I could reclaim by asking the simple question: Is this necessary?

This episode is about recognizing the unnecessary in our lives—thoughts, habits, and actions alike—and taking the first steps toward doing less, but doing it better. It’s a reminder that growth doesn’t require perfection, and that even small, deliberate choices can gradually reshape our character, our peace of mind, and our sense of purpose.

Key Stoic Takeaway:
Peace of mind comes from focusing only on what is necessary, and performing those things well—trimming the distractions, the self-criticism, and the unproductive habits that steal our time and energy.

Thank you for listening and joining me on my journey of self-discovery!

Mediations and Prompts influenced from The Daily Stoic Books

Please if you enjoy this content checkout Ryan's work

Say Hello

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about how real progress isn’t made through sudden breakthroughs or giant leaps, but through the small, steady steps we take each day. Zeno’s words remind me that well-being grows slowly and quietly — it’s the sum of tiny victories and consistent choices, even when they seem insignificant in the moment.

This past week hasn’t been easy for me. I caught myself slipping into frustration, irritation, and regret — emotions that don’t help me move forward. I found my mind wandering to old hurts and fears, distracting me from the present and the small wins I could be making right now. But I also noticed where I’ve been holding back — biting my tongue at work to avoid unnecessary conflict, practicing restraint with difficult family dynamics, and simply making it through the day without breaking down. Those moments, however small, are progress.

I realize I’ve been waiting for the “right conditions” to take action, for things to be perfect before moving forward. But that’s a trap — perfection is the enemy of action. If I keep waiting for ideal circumstances, I’ll never begin. Instead, I need to embrace the imperfect, the messy, the everyday reality of life and find the courage to take small steps despite it.

So today, I’m choosing to celebrate the little wins — staying calm when I want to react, holding myself accountable for what I can control, and pushing myself to start simple things like creating a budget or reflecting honestly on my mindset. It’s not glamorous or dramatic, but it’s a start. And as Zeno said, those small steps are truly no small thing.

If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure where to begin, remember that every meaningful journey begins with one small step. Let’s find those little wins together and keep moving forward — one day, one choice, one breath at a time.

Thank you for listening and joining me on my journey of self-discovery!

Mediations and Prompts influenced from The Daily Stoic Books

Please if you enjoy this content checkout Ryan's work

Say Hello

This week, I took on a difficult but necessary challenge: to stop complaining, both outwardly and inwardly, and to fully own my reactions instead of blaming others or circumstances. Epictetus reminds us that blame only drains our energy and keeps us stuck—what truly belongs to us is our reasoned choice and how we respond.

I’ve realized that much of my unhappiness comes from dwelling on what I lack or what’s gone wrong, rather than appreciating the privileges I do have—like simply being alive in a peaceful country. I confess I’ve often let bitterness cloud my judgment, and that my confidence has been shaken by years of setbacks, poor choices, and self-criticism. True confidence, I’m learning, isn’t about external success or approval, but about living with integrity and resilience through life’s challenges.

I’m still working on accepting realities I find hard—loss, disappointment, and uncertainty—without letting them overwhelm me. I’ve wrestled with how my job, my relationships, and my internal voice keep me stuck in cycles of negativity. But the Stoics teach that growth isn’t about waiting for perfect conditions; it’s about how we choose to live right now, no matter the situation.

This episode is me sharing those struggles honestly—my failures, my regrets, and my hope to move forward by focusing on what I can control. I’m learning that letting go of complaints and blame frees up the energy I need to grow, rebuild confidence, and find meaning in everyday life.

Thank you for listening to my journey. I’m committed to continuing this path, embracing patience with myself and others, and discovering the strength to handle whatever life throws at me. I hope it encourages you to reflect on your own challenges—and to find peace in the power of your own choices.

Thank you for listening and joining me on my journey of self-discovery!

Mediations and Prompts influenced from The Daily Stoic Books

Please if you enjoy this content checkout Ryan's work

Say Hello

In this episode, I reflect on the wisdom of Epictetus, who reminds us that disturbing news—no matter how shocking or painful—is ultimately outside our control and shouldn’t dictate our inner peace. The real power lies in how we respond, not in the events themselves.

I get real about my own struggles—feeling stuck in a job that no longer fits, wrestling with pride and impatience, and the challenges of working with others when my heart isn’t fully in it. I share my ongoing battle with balancing emotions and reason, especially when faced with personal setbacks and loss. Despite these struggles, I recognize the importance of staying grounded, choosing virtue, and acting with integrity—even when it’s hard.

This episode is about embracing that tension between external chaos and internal calm. It’s about the slow, sometimes frustrating work of aligning our actions with our values, and the courage it takes to keep showing up for ourselves and others. I also speak candidly about my fears, regrets, and the difficult journey toward living a more authentic, virtuous life.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the news, trapped by circumstances, or unsure how to respond to life’s curveballs, this episode offers a hopeful, honest conversation about finding your inner compass—and keeping it steady through it all.

Thank you for listening and joining me on my journey of self-discovery!

Mediations and Prompts influenced from The Daily Stoic Books

Please if you enjoy this content checkout Ryan's work

Say Hello

This week, I’ve been reflecting on a powerful idea from Marcus Aurelius, who reminds us that people don’t intentionally choose to be unjust or unkind—they often act out of ignorance or confusion rather than malice. It’s a deeply Stoic perspective that challenges how I see others and myself. When I truly understand that many mistakes come from not knowing better, it opens the door to forgiveness—not just for others, but for myself.

I’ve been wrestling with my own struggles: the gap between what I know and what I actually do, especially around money, habits, and personal growth. I can be overconfident in my knowledge, yet fall short in practice, and that gap weighs on me. Sometimes I feel stuck in survival mode, lacking motivation or a clear direction, which can spiral into self-judgment and despair. But I’m learning that humility isn’t about beating myself up; it’s about recognizing where I’m at, and choosing to move forward with small steps instead of giving in to defeat.

I’ve also been thinking about how I relate to others—how bitterness and resentment can take root when I expect life to be fair or people to behave as I think they should. Stoicism teaches me that my peace depends not on others’ actions but on my own response. Holding grudges only drags me down. Forgiveness, then, becomes a gift I give myself—a way to release that burden and open space for growth.

It’s not easy. Forgiving myself is often the hardest part. I’ve lost important relationships, made mistakes I regret, and feel the weight of missed opportunities. But I’m learning to meet those moments with kindness, patience, and understanding—recognizing that I’m on this journey just like everyone else, trying to learn and improve.

This episode is about embracing forgiveness as wisdom in action, not weakness; about finding strength in grace; and about the ongoing challenge of aligning our actions with our values, even when it’s tough. I hope my honest struggles remind you that you’re not alone—and that every day offers a chance to choose compassion, for others and yourself.

Thank you for listening and joining me on my journey of self-discovery!

Mediations and Prompts influenced from The Daily Stoic Books

Please if you enjoy this content checkout Ryan's work

Say Hello

This past week, I’ve been wrestling with what it truly means to do good. Not for attention. Not for thanks. Just because it’s the right thing to do. Marcus Aurelius reminds us of three types of people: the ones who expect a reward for their kindness, the ones who keep quiet but still keep score, and the rare few who do good as naturally as a vine produces grapes—no boasting, no pride, no need for applause.

I want to be that third person. But if I’m being honest, I’m not there yet.

This week’s reflection took me into some darker territory—feelings of failure, exhaustion, and a deep lack of purpose. I’m still stuck in a job I don’t love, still unsure of what I’m really striving for. And yet, there’s a small voice reminding me: doing good without needing a reason is a powerful act. Especially when life feels directionless. Especially when no one seems to notice.

I’ve been hard on myself—too hard. I see my flaws more clearly than my progress. I know I’m not where I want to be. But I also know I’m trying. I show up to therapy. I’ve stayed sober. I write. I reflect. I try to live by the principles I admire, even if I fall short more often than I’d like to admit.

This episode is about letting go of the need for external validation. It’s about shifting from doing good to be seen to doing good because it’s who I’m becoming. I don’t feel ready to lead anyone—not even myself some days. But maybe leadership isn’t about confidence or perfection. Maybe it’s about consistency, humility, and quiet service.

If someone is watching me—if someone is following my lead—I want them to see someone who is still trying, even when it’s hard. I want to be a vine that keeps producing grapes, in season, without pride or complaint.

Key Stoic Takeaway
The best kind of leader isn’t loud or proud—they do what’s right, quietly and steadily. Not because they have to. Not because someone’s watching. But because it’s who they choose to be.

Thank you for listening and joining me on my journey of self-discovery!

Mediations and Prompts influenced from The Daily Stoic Books

Please if you enjoy this content checkout Ryan's work

Say Hello

Today, I’m reflecting on what it means to truly protect the flame within—the core of who I am. Inspired by a quote from Epictetus, I’ve been thinking a lot about how often I let external distractions, fear, and self-doubt smother that flame instead of guarding it like the sacred thing it is.

There are days—many of them—when I wake up tired, frustrated, and unmotivated. I go through the motions at a job that feels misaligned with who I want to be, telling myself it’s just what I have to do. But underneath all that obligation and discomfort, I know my real work is internal: practicing patience, building resilience, choosing integrity, and facing my own excuses head-on.

I’ve spent years blaming my past, my upbringing, my personality traits—even luck—for why I’m not where I want to be. But Stoicism keeps pointing me back to a harder truth: I’m responsible for me. And that’s not meant to be crushing—it’s empowering. Because if I’ve been the one holding myself back, I can also be the one to move forward.

This week I’m wrestling with uncomfortable truths—how I use distractions like overspending or screen time to avoid discipline, how I hold on to resentment rather than rising above it, and how often I miss the chance to turn burdens into blessings simply because I’m too focused on what’s missing. The Stoics remind me that my job isn’t to control outcomes—it’s to protect my inner character, no matter the circumstance.

Maybe I don’t always feel like a Stoic. Maybe I fall short more often than not. But I’m still here. I’m still trying. And that counts for something.

Thank you for listening and joining me on my journey of self-discovery!

Mediations and Prompts influenced from The Daily Stoic Books

Please if you enjoy this content checkout Ryan's work