How are we supposed to live?
Perseverance makes us live. The question of how we are supposed to live has been asked for centuries, dating back to the Stoics. Sometimes, life throws moments at us to challenge us, and we’re told to simply persevere and endure. But what does perseverance truly mean, and how can we harness it to live a fulfilling life?
What does perseverance mean
“Ask, ‘Why is this so unbearable? Why can’t I endure it?’ You’ll be embarrassed to answer.” — Marcus Aurelius
Cambodians are living proof of what perseverance means. Their strength is unparalleled. They don’t blame others or seek pity; they keep going, no matter what life throws at them. For Cambodians, today is another day to persevere.
Take a step outside the box and look around. You’ll see the beauty of the world. Wake up with a smile, grateful for another day. Let’s explore 5 awe-inspiring lessons on how to keep going.
1. Accept Your Fate
“Do not seek for things to happen the way you want them to; rather, wish that what happens happens the way it happens: then you will be happy.” – Epictetus. The Stoic Philosophy of Marcus Aurelius
Hard times reveal your true character. Embrace the hardships of life and learn to love your fate. Every moment, even the difficult ones, has a purpose. The universe placed it in your path for a reason.
Your existence is rare, and you’ve already overcome countless challenges. Your suffering, too, is rare and beautiful. Accepting your fate doesn’t mean you’re happy about hardships; it means you acknowledge that struggle is part of existence.
For more on embracing life’s challenges, check out my blog: Start Living Now | 5 Ways To Embrace Life With Purpose
2. Do Not Complain
“Everything that happens is either endurable or not. If it’s endurable, then endure it. Stop complaining. If it’s unendurable… then stop complaining.” — Marcus Aurelius
Complaining doesn’t make life easier; it often makes things worse. Feel your emotions, confide in a friend, but don’t dwell on negativity. Complaining only destroys you, not the situation.
You can endure anything if you believe you can. Exercise control over your mind and remember: no problem is the end of the world.
If you’re struggling with self-doubt, my blog – From Struggle To Joy | 6 Ways Self-Love Empowered My Life offers practical tips to shift your mindset.
3. Live Life
“Never say of anything, ‘I have lost it’ but, ‘I have returned it.’” — Epictetus
Don’t take life’s challenges personally. The universe existed long before you and will continue long after. Difficulties are temporary, and so are we. Live for the present and stop complaining.
Accepting hardships is part of learning and living. Don’t just sit there—embrace life fully
For more on living with intention, read Seize 2025 | Take Charge And Create The Life You Desire.
4. Do Not Put Things Off
“Putting things off is the biggest waste of life: it snatches away each day as it comes.” — Seneca
Procrastination gives suffering control over you. By taking action, you regain control. Follow your dreams and strive for a happy life, even when it feels easier to give up.
Remember, you can either persevere or stop. Either way, life is fleeting. To persevere is to wield power over your circumstances.
5. Stop Torturing Yourself
“We suffer not from the events in our lives, but from our judgment about them.” — Epictetus
Often, our suffering is self-inflicted. Instead of judging yourself harshly, focus on the facts. For example, replace “I lost my bag because I was stupid” with “I lost my bag because I forgot about it.”
Rational thinking reduces suffering. Recognise that many things aren’t your fault, and use that understanding to act courageously.
Takeaway
When life gets tough, don’t retreat into survival mode. Take a deep breath and face the challenge with virtue. The universe has sent this problem for you to overcome. By persevering, you not only improve your life but also inspire others.
Perseverance isn’t just about enduring—it’s about thriving. Embrace these lessons, and you’ll find the strength to keep going, no matter what.
For more inspiration on living a purposeful life, explore my other blogs:
- Seize 2025 | Take Charge And Create The Life You Desire
- From Struggle To Joy | 6 Ways Self-Love Empowered My Life
- Start Living Now | 5 Ways To Embrace Life With Purpose
Recommended Reading
- Meditations by Marcus Aurelius – A series of personal writings by the Stoic emperor, offering timeless wisdom on resilience and self-discipline.
- The Cognitive Behavioral Workbook for Anxiety – A step-by-step program to help you overcome anxiety and live the life you deserve.
- First They Killed My Father by Loung Ung – A powerful memoir about surviving unimaginable hardships, showcasing the strength of the human spirit.
