The Stoic Challenge: My Favorite Non-Fiction Book for April

The Stoic Challenge: A Philosopher’s Guide to Becoming Tougher, Calmer, and More Resilient by William B. Irvine is a pass-along book. At least in my way of thinking. My sister-in-law gave it as a gift to my husband, who after reading it suggested I read it. I’m glad he did. Now it’s heading to our son’s home.

Why pass it along? Life can be unpredictable, challenging, and full of setbacks in good times, but in increasing times of upheaval even more so, when strategies for resilience can make a personal difference in our state of well-being. With its blend of ancient Stoic wisdom and modern psychology, The Stoic Challenge offers that.

I had the opportunity to experience the Stoic strategy firsthand a few days after finishing this quick read book. Normally, I would have been several-days upset following my accidental deletion of a special, multi-year, text-thread with a grandchild. But I applied the Stoic challenge, which treats setbacks like “a test of resilience and resourcefulness.” Doing so saved me much angst.

The author, William B. Irvine is a professor of philosophy at Wright State University and the author of several books. His blend of wisdom and psychology provides a way to reframe and respond to life’s unpredictable setbacks, be they small or large. The Stoic Challenge is a book I recommend reading and passing along.