Philosophy in Business

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     Stoicism is a philosophical ideology that can be traced all the way back to Ancient Greece and Rome. It is a school of thought that inhabits many ideas, but the general theme is that we must not be deterred by external factors. Stoics believe that achieving tranquility is done by ceasing to worry about circumstances out of their control. Succumbing to external circumstances is inevitably unproductive. 

    These broad and deeply philosophical ideals of the Stoics can be applied to business practices in a very practical sense. Stoics practice turning obstacles into opportunities, and this is something that is crucial for successful entrepreneurs. And at its core, stoic ideals are the perfect model for a quality leader: virtue, character, compassion. 

    Rationality and perspective are also often very important for successful business-people. Being aware of your circumstances allows you to make rational decisions from a position of leadership. If you get too caught up in your own desire, you cannot effectively lead others, as you would be blind to the circumstances around you. 

    Self-Mastery is another big focus in Stoicism. Setting goals for yourself, and working wholeheartedly to achieve them, is something that is important to all people, but especially entrepreneurs. 

    Entrepreneurs can take a lot away from Stoic ideals and certain philosophical ideas because they are in a unique situation of business. As an entrepreneur you are creating something -- innovating -- and you can often ended up stranded with little support. Being able to persevere and avoid being held back by set backs that are out of your control is vital in growing a successful small business. And even as a business grows, the world's most successful business leaders are people of virtue that have won the support of their subordinates through their character and determination. 

    I think that the ideals of Stoicism can be beneficially applied to all of our individual lives, for at its root, Stoicism is about striving for virtue, and being the most productive and compassionate version of yourself possible.




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