Thomas Carlyle: 'There are good and bad times, but our mood changes more often than our fortune.'

There are good and bad times, but our mood changes more often than our fortune.

In his famous quote, Thomas Carlyle suggests that while our fortunes may fluctuate between good and bad times, it is our mood that tends to change more frequently. At first glance, this statement seems quite straightforward and relatable. After all, we can often find ourselves caught up in a rollercoaster of emotions, experiencing highs and lows even within a short span of time. However, delving deeper, this quote offers us the opportunity to explore a remarkable philosophical concept known as Stoicism.Stoicism, an ancient philosophical school of thought, emphasizes the importance of differentiating between what is within our control and what is not. According to Stoic teachings, our inner disposition, or our mood, is something that lies within our control. Our fortunes, on the other hand, are often shaped by external events that are beyond our influence. This stark contrast ignites a new perspective on Carlyle's statement.Incorporating Stoicism into our interpretation of Carlyle's quote allows us to recognize the power we possess in shaping our moods irrespective of the fluctuations in our external circumstances. While our fortunes may indeed oscillate, ranging from prosperous to challenging times, Stoicism empowers us to maintain a steady emotional state. This philosophy encourages individuals to focus on cultivating inner virtues and personal growth, regardless of the strain exerted by external events.Applying this concept in our daily lives, we can begin to identify moments when our mood is unduly influenced by external factors. For instance, let's consider a situation where we have worked diligently on a project, poured our soul into it, only to receive harsh criticism and rejection. The natural tendency here would be to succumb to negative emotions such as frustration, disappointment, or even anger. However, embracing the Stoic perspective, we can consciously choose to respond differently. By separating our mood from our fortune, we can remind ourselves that our inner disposition should not hinge solely on the external judgment we receive. Instead, we can focus on the efforts we made, the skills we honed, and the growth we achieved through the process.Interestingly, applying Stoicism to our lives does not imply that we should suppress or deny our emotions. Rather, it encourages us to acknowledge and understand them, recognizing their impermanence and the potential to alter our fortunes. This understanding of the transient nature of our emotions enables us to view challenging times as opportunities for growth, rather than allowing them to deeply influence our moods.Carlyle's quote reminds us of the power we possess within ourselves to navigate life's ups and downs with resilience. It implores us to develop the capacity to acknowledge, understand, and regulate our emotional responses, recognizing that our moods need not depend solely on the external circumstances we find ourselves in. By embracing the Stoic philosophy, we can transform our perception of fortunes and moods alike, empowering ourselves to face life's challenges with equanimity and an unwavering resolve.