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Paradox of Control
created Thursday September 11, 07:42 by Marsheila Sie
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Manifesting and stoicism appear to sit on opposite ends of the spectrum when it comes to control. Manifesting, often linked with the "law of attraction," encourages us to visualize and focus on what we desire, believing that our thoughts can shape reality. The underlying idea is that by holding a positive mindset and expecting the best outcome, we influence the universe to deliver opportunities aligned with our vision. It is an active, intentional process that asks us to dream boldly and align our actions with those dreams.
Stoic philosophy, on the other hand, teaches us to detach from outcomes and focus solely on what we can control-our thoughts, actions, and character. Rather than visualizing a specific result, the Stoic accepts whatever happens as part of nature's order. The goal is tranquility, not external success. For a Stoic, desiring specific outcomes risks disappointment and unnecessary suffering.
The paradox arises because both approaches encourage inner discipline yet handle expectation differently. Manifesting asks us to hold faith in a specific result, while Stoicism asks us to release attachment to results altogether. Reconciling the two may mean holding a vision lightly: using manifestation to clarify direction and fuel motivation, but tempering it with Stoic acceptance if life unfolds differently. This balance allows us to act with purpose, stay resilient in setbacks, and appreciate that both our efforts and the universe have roles in shaping the final outcome.
Stoic philosophy, on the other hand, teaches us to detach from outcomes and focus solely on what we can control-our thoughts, actions, and character. Rather than visualizing a specific result, the Stoic accepts whatever happens as part of nature's order. The goal is tranquility, not external success. For a Stoic, desiring specific outcomes risks disappointment and unnecessary suffering.
The paradox arises because both approaches encourage inner discipline yet handle expectation differently. Manifesting asks us to hold faith in a specific result, while Stoicism asks us to release attachment to results altogether. Reconciling the two may mean holding a vision lightly: using manifestation to clarify direction and fuel motivation, but tempering it with Stoic acceptance if life unfolds differently. This balance allows us to act with purpose, stay resilient in setbacks, and appreciate that both our efforts and the universe have roles in shaping the final outcome.
