Zeno of Citium's teachings that "Happiness is a good flow of life."

Zeno of Citium's teachings that "Happiness is a good flow of life." As an avid skateboarder, surfer, and jiu-jitsu practitioner, I've learned firsthand the importance of resilience, self-control, and equanimity. When you're wiping out on a giant wave or getting tapped out in a submission grappling, you can't let your emotions get the best of you. Being present and adaptable allows you to get back up and try again with composure and added experience.

This same poise and acceptance of life's ups and downs is essential to happiness according to Zeno. By aligning our actions with virtue and finding contentment in the present moment, we can better handle life's inevitable difficulties and cultivate lasting fulfillment.



Of course, this doesn't mean we should simply resign ourselves to hardship or negativity. Zeno encouraged us to focus our energy on the things within our control that bring meaning and joy. As the Stoics recognized, obstacles are inevitable but our responses aren't fixed.

So in my own life, I've learned to "Do more of what makes me happy." every day through activities like time with loved ones, appreciating nature, learning new skills, and simple moments of gratitude and mindfulness. This regular practice brings a sense of flow to life's journey.  By embracing the ebbs and flows with poise, pursuing excellence, and tapping into the joy of each fleeting moment, we can discover the good life sought by Zeno and the ancients. Their wisdom still rings true today if we have the courage to live and learn from it.