Katie Stidolph aka The Savvy Stoic

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Katie Stidolph aka The Savvy Stoic

Katie Stidolph aka The Savvy Stoic 🌿 Your compass to Stoic wisdom, guiding modern minds through life's chaos, towards living well. 🧭🍃 But she didn't stop there. Yet, Katie is more than a speaker.
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A creative powerhouse hailing from the vibrant North East of England, Katie Stidolph, aka The Savvy Stoic, is your guide through Stoicism's ancient yet enduringly relevant philosophy. Fuelled by a potent blend of business acumen, a deep-seated passion for classics, and a philosophical mind, Katie emerged from Newcastle University armed with a First-Class Honours degree. Her captivating talks have

brought Stoicism to life for countless individuals, showcasing how this time-tested philosophy can help us leap over life's hurdles and become the best versions of ourselves. She's a practitioner. Under the banner of The Savvy Stoic, she doesn't just preach these principles - she lives them. With authenticity and genuine passion, she invites others to join her in this journey of growth, understanding, and peaceful existence. With The Savvy Stoic, you're not just exploring a philosophy but discovering a lifestyle. One that cultivates resilience celebrates wisdom, and embraces the tranquillity we often forget in our bustling lives. Ready to embark on this journey with Katie, The Savvy Stoic? Dive into a world where ancient wisdom meets modern living, and learn how to live well amidst the beautiful chaos of life.

27/02/2025

🎧☕🌿 The Simple Gift of Our Senses 🎧☕🌿

We rush through life, rarely stopping to notice the small things—until they're gone. Today, on Anosmia Awareness Day, we reflect on the senses we often take for granted.

Imagine waking up one morning and realising you can’t smell fresh coffee or the scent of rain on the pavement. Many people live without these experiences, reminding us that what seems ordinary is, in fact, extraordinary.

The Stoics teach us to embrace what we have while we have it. Marcus Aurelius reminds us: 👇

"Do not indulge in dreams of having what you lack, but reckon up the chief of the blessings you do possess, and then thankfully remember how you would crave for them if they were not yours."

Today, take a moment to pause. Feel the warmth of your morning brew, listen to a favourite song, or step outside and breathe in the fresh air. Gratitude isn’t just about the big things—it’s about noticing what we already have.

💙 If you or someone you know lives with anosmia or sensory loss, today is a chance to acknowledge that experience and raise awareness. It’s a reminder that our senses shape so much of how we connect with the world—and for those who navigate life differently, their strength deserves recognition.

👉Learn more here: https://www.anosmiaawareness.org.

Your practice for the day 👇

Slow down. Notice one sense you often overlook and immerse yourself in it fully. What do you appreciate most about it? 💭

26/02/2025

🧠 Wisdom Wednesday: Leave Other People's Mistakes Where They Lie 🧠

"Leave other people's mistakes where they lie." – Marcus Aurelius

One of the most transformative lessons Stoicism has taught me is the power of letting go—especially when it comes to the small faults of others. Whether it’s a forgotten teabag left next to the kettle (guilty!) or the dishwasher left unloaded, these little oversights don’t need to ruin anyone’s day. Instead of pointing them out, we can choose to quietly fix them and move on, preserving peace in our relationships and our minds.

Of course, Marcus may have been referring to bigger issues—like the mistakes or shortcomings we see in others’ actions. Yet, Stoicism reminds us that we don’t have control over what others do, but we can control our response. Sometimes, the most compassionate and wise choice is to let it go.

💡 Reflection for this week: 👇

1️⃣ How often do you feel the need to point out small mistakes?

2️⃣ Could you let one slide today and see how it feels?

🌱 Your Stoic Practice: The next time someone makes a minor mistake or oversight, pause before reacting. Ask yourself, "Does this really need to be said?" If not, let it go and focus on maintaining harmony.

Remember, we all stumble, and often, the kindest thing we can do is leave others’ mistakes where they lie. 🌿

25/02/2025

⏳ Temperance Tuesday: The Discipline of Time ⏳

"Keep a list before your mind of those who burned with anger and resentment about something, or even the most renowned for success, misfortune, evil deeds, or any special distinction. Then ask yourself, how did that work out? Smoke and dust, the stuff of simple myth trying to be legend…" — Marcus Aurelius

We spend so much time caught up in anger, ambition, or obsession—as if our emotions or achievements will leave a permanent mark on the world. But Marcus Aurelius reminds us that time erases everything. Even the greatest conquerors, the most ambitious figures in history, all fade into dust.

🕰 What does this mean for us? 💭

✔️ Don’t waste time on resentment or anger—it disappears like smoke.

✔️ Don’t cling to perfectionism—even the most 'perfect' efforts are fleeting.

✔️ Don’t obsess over legacy—instead, focus on how you live right now.

Alexander the Great and his mule driver were buried in the same ground. The difference? One spent his life in relentless ambition, the other likely in simplicity. In the end, time levels all things.

Your Practice for the Week 👇

Instead of being enslaved to emotions, grudges, or anxieties, try to let go today. Pause and ask yourself: Will this matter in a year? In ten? If not, let it pass.

Live fully, live wisely, and don’t waste time on what will fade away.

24/02/2025

✨ Mindful Monday: The Power of a Slow Start ✨

In a recent post, I explored how slowing down on a Monday can set the tone for a more focused, intentional, and less stressful week. Instead of rushing headfirst into work, I’ve embraced a Slow Monday—allowing myself to ease in, skip the pressure, and start the week with clarity.

For years, I treated Monday like a sprint, thinking that starting fast meant I’d be more productive. But in reality? It just led to burnout by midweek. Now, I start my Mondays with a later alarm, a mindful moment, and a little more grace. And it’s made a world of difference.

If Monday mornings leave you drained, maybe it’s time to try something different. A small shift in how you start the week could change the way the entire week unfolds.

What’s one thing you could do to make your Mondays feel lighter? 💭

👉 Read more over at Wise Words: https://lnkd.in/eedRNTiG

21/02/2025

🔥 Fortitude Friday: The Stoic Resilience of James Stockdale 🔥

"You must never confuse faith that you will prevail in the end… with the discipline to confront the most brutal facts of your current reality." — James Stockdale

James Stockdale was a U.S. Navy pilot shot down over Vietnam, captured, and held as a prisoner of war for seven years. Tortured, isolated, and facing the constant threat of death, he turned to Stoicism—particularly the teachings of Epictetus—to endure unimaginable suffering. ✈️

Stockdale embodied fortitude in its truest form. He refused to break under pressure, resisted his captors’ demands, and found strength not in optimism but in discipline and acceptance. He later described how Stoicism saved him, teaching him to focus only on what he could control—his mind, his courage, and his character. 💪

His story reminds us that fortitude is not about avoiding suffering—it’s about enduring it with strength and purpose. ⚖️

How can we apply Stockdale’s resilience to our own challenges? 💭

📸 Image: U.S. Department of Defense

20/02/2025

⚖️ Thankful Thursday: Justice – A Stoic’s Duty to the World ⚖️

"If it is not right, do not do it; if it is not true, do not say it." — Marcus Aurelius

Today is World Day of Social Justice, a reminder that justice is more than a concept—it’s a responsibility. In Stoicism, justice isn’t just about laws and courts; it’s about how we treat others, contribute to society, and stand up for what’s right.

Justice is one of the four Stoic virtues, challenging us to act with fairness, integrity, and compassion—not just when it’s easy, but especially when it’s hard. It’s about recognising that we are part of something greater, and our choices ripple out into the world. 🌍

In a society where injustice exists—whether it’s inequality, exclusion, or oppression—Stoicism teaches us that while we can’t control everything, we can control how we show up:

⚖️ We can choose to speak up for those who aren’t heard.

💛 We can offer kindness where there is cruelty.
🤝 We can contribute in ways that uplift others.

The Dichotomy of Control reminds us that while we cannot fix the world overnight, we can act justly within our own circles. Small actions matter.

So today, I’m reflecting on gratitude for those who work toward a more just world. Those who challenge unfair systems, advocate for others and embody Stoic justice in their daily lives. If we truly live by Stoic principles, we must not only seek wisdom for ourselves but also use it for the good of others.

💬 How can you practice justice in your own life today? 💭

19/02/2025

✨ One Year of Wise Words: Lessons, Growth, and the Road Ahead ✨

A year of writing, reflection, and connection. 💭

Since launching Wise Words last February, I’ve built a community of Wise Readers who share in the journey of growth, resilience, and living a good life—through Stoicism and beyond.

On this Wisdom Wednesday, I’m reflecting on the past year—the highs, the challenges, and what’s next for Wise Words in year two. If you’ve ever felt the pull to create something meaningful, this one’s for you.

👉 Read more here: https://open.substack.com/pub/thesavvystoic/p/one-year-of-wise-words-lessons-growth?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android&r=1oiwhq

18/02/2025

✨ Temperance Tuesday: The Art of Saying No to Yourself ✨

Self-restraint isn’t always fun in the moment. Trust me, I know.

I got my partner some lovely truffles for Valentine’s Day, and they’ve been staring at me ever since. Every time I walk past the box, they whisper, "Go on, just one more..." But temperance isn’t about deprivation—it’s about knowing when enough is enough.

It’s easy to think of self-restraint as punishment, but the Stoics saw it as a path to freedom. Saying no to excess—whether it’s another Netflix episode at midnight, scrolling for ‘just 5 more minutes,’ or reaching for yet another chocolate—helps us take back control instead of letting impulses rule us.

And here’s the thing: it’s not about being perfect—it’s about being intentional.

What’s one small way you can practice temperance today? For me, it's saying no to those truffles. 💭

17/02/2025

✨ Mindful Monday: The Enemy of Happiness ✨

How often do we say, "I'll be happy when..."?

When I get that job. When I lose the weight. When life finally feels sorted.

But as Epictetus reminds us, happiness isn't found in the future—it's found in the present. The more we chase the horizon, the further it seems. Real contentment isn't in someday; it's in now.

What’s one thing you can appreciate today—without waiting for something else to happen first? 💭

The art of happiness begins in this moment—let’s be mindful of it. 😊

14/02/2025

❤️ Fortitude Friday: The Courage to Love ❤️

Happy Valentine’s Day! 💐

Love isn’t just about romance—it’s about so much more. It’s in friendship, in kindness, in the way we show up for others and ourselves. And most importantly, love is an act of bravery.

It takes courage to love others, to open our hearts after hurt, to trust again when we've been let down. It takes strength to stand up for ourselves in self-love, to honour our boundaries, and to speak our truth. Love isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it.

And it doesn’t matter whether you’re single, in a relationship, or somewhere in between—love is universal. Today, let’s show up with love. For ourselves. For others. For the world. 🌎

I'm grateful to love and be loved by some wonderful people who make life better in so many ways—like waking up to these beautiful flowers from my other half. 🥰

Love isn’t just about grand gestures; it’s found in the small, everyday moments—in kindness, in presence, in the way we show up for ourselves and others. Whether it’s through self-care, a thoughtful word, or simply appreciating the beauty around us, let’s choose love a little more today.

Because courage and love walk hand in hand. Happy Friday, everyone. Here's to a lovely one. 💛

13/02/2025

✨ The Small Things That Matter Most ✨

There’s a passage in Meditations where Marcus Aurelius reminds himself: 👇

"Do not dream of possession of what you do not have: rather reflect on the greatest blessings in what you do have, and on their account remind yourself how much they would have been missed if they were not there."

Gratitude isn’t about forcing ourselves to feel thankful all the time. It’s about recognising what’s already here—the simple, quiet joys we often overlook. The laughter of a friend, a moment of peace in the morning, the fact that we woke up today with another chance to live well ☀️.

And for me, one of those little joys is waking up next to Lily and that sweet, scruffy face. There’s something so grounding about starting the day with her snuggled beside me, a reminder that some of life’s greatest gifts aren’t things but moments. 💛

That’s why I love Thankful Thursday—a moment to pause and notice what’s good, no matter how small. Today, let’s take a breath and appreciate it. Because the things we cherish grow richer, and the things we take for granted slip away unnoticed.

What’s something small yet meaningful that you’re grateful for today? 💭

12/02/2025

💛 Wisdom Wednesday: A Stoic Heart 💛

"To love with wisdom is to love with freedom." — Inspired by the Stoics.

Valentine’s Day is approaching, and whether you celebrate it or not, it’s a great time to reflect on what love truly means.

From a Stoic perspective, love is more than fleeting emotions—it’s about how we show up for others and ourselves with wisdom, clarity, and presence.

In one of my first-ever Wise Words articles, I explored how Stoicism helps us navigate love and relationships with intention. It covers:

💛 Dichotomy of Control in Love—focusing on our actions, not controlling others.

💛 Mindful Love—being fully present in relationships.

💛 Freedom in Love—why true love supports autonomy, not possession.

💛 Gratitude in Love—appreciating rather than comparing.

Whether you're in a relationship, single, or somewhere in between, love isn’t just about romance—it’s about practising wisdom, presence, and gratitude in all our connections.

🔗 Revisit the article here: https://shorturl.at/R2Ogh

How has your perspective on love evolved over time? Let’s reflect together. 💭✨

11/02/2025

💛 Temperance Tuesday: Emotional Balance in Relationships 💛

"Whenever you are about to find fault with someone, ask yourself the following question: What fault of mine most nearly resembles the one I am about to criticize?" — Marcus Aurelius

Love and relationships test our ability to practice temperance more than anything else. Whether it’s a romantic relationship, friendship, or family dynamic, emotions run high, and it’s easy to react rather than respond.

We’ve all been there: 👇

❌ A sharp reply in an argument.
❌ Letting frustration build instead of communicating.
❌ Reacting emotionally instead of pausing and considering.

Stoicism doesn’t tell us to suppress emotions—it teaches us to understand and guide them.

💭 Next time emotions flare, try this: 👇

1️⃣ Pause—Take a breath before reacting.
2️⃣ Reflect—Is this response helping or hurting?
3️⃣ Choose wisely—Speak and act from virtue, not impulse.

Because true strength in love isn’t found in dominance or control—it’s found in patience, understanding, and the ability to navigate emotions wisely.

How do you practice temperance in your relationships? 💛

10/02/2025

💭 Mindful Monday: The Art of Presence in Love & Life 💭

"You could leave life right now. Let that determine what you do and say and think." — Marcus Aurelius

How often do we let distractions steal the present moment? How often are we physically there but mentally somewhere else—lost in our to-do lists, glued to our phones, or thinking about what’s next instead of what’s now?

In love, friendships, and daily life, presence is one of the greatest gifts we can offer. Yet, it’s one of the hardest to give.

💬 Have you ever had a conversation where you weren’t really listening?

📱 Scrolled your phone while someone was talking to you?

⏳ Spent time with someone but weren’t truly with them?

Life isn’t lived in the past or the future—it’s happening now. Stoicism reminds us that time is fleeting, and every moment we let slip by is one we never get back.

So today, a small challenge: 👇

✨ Put the phone down when you’re with someone.

✨ Give your full attention to a conversation.

✨ Notice the little moments—laughter, eye contact, the warmth of someone’s presence.

Because one day, these moments won’t just be small—they’ll be the ones you wish you could relive.

What’s one way you can be more present today? 💭

07/02/2025

🛡 Fortitude Friday: Fear and the Power of Self-Control 🛡

"Many are harmed by fear itself, and many may have come to their fate while dreading fate." — Seneca

Fear can be a powerful force—not because of what we fear, but because of how we react to it. When left unchecked, fear distorts our judgment, fuels anxiety, and can even bring about the very outcomes we desperately try to avoid.

Seneca saw this truth play out in Rome’s most powerful figures, where paranoia led rulers to betray their closest allies, losing everything in the process. We see it in everyday life too—the fear of failure holding us back, the fear of rejection making us withdraw, or the fear of uncertainty leading to rash decisions.

But fortitude teaches us another way.

1️⃣ Instead of letting fear dictate our actions, we can meet it with reason.

2️⃣ Instead of assuming the worst, we can stand firm and respond with clarity.

3️⃣ Instead of allowing fear to erode our confidence, we can cultivate trust in ourselves.

The next time fear whispers that disaster is coming, pause. Breathe. Ask yourself: 👇

📌 Is this fear based on reality, or am I letting my imagination run wild?

📌 If the worst happens, will I still be able to endure and move forward?

📌 What would a Stoic do in this moment?

Fear will always be present, but it does not have to rule us. Fortitude is the shield that allows us to move forward with strength, no matter what lies ahead.

What fear are you choosing to face with fortitude today? 💭

06/02/2025

🌿 Thankful Thursday: Lessons in Presence from Pooss 🌿

"While we wait for life, life passes." — Seneca

There’s something special about the presence of a pet. They don’t dwell on the past or worry about the future—they simply exist in the moment, fully present, fully themselves.

Pooss reminds me of this daily. Whether it’s finding joy in a sunbeam, curling up without a care, or greeting me with affection, there’s a quiet wisdom in her way of being.

Stoicism teaches us that life is now. While we make plans and chase goals, we mustn’t forget to pause, to be present, to appreciate what’s right in front of us. Pets, in their simplicity, embody this effortlessly.

Today, I’m grateful for the companionship of animals—their presence, their love, and the gentle reminder they bring:

🐾 To be here, now.
🐾 To embrace simplicity.
🐾 To love without conditions.

What small moment of presence are you grateful for today?

05/02/2025

💡 Wisdom Wednesday: Lessons from January 💡

"No great thing is created suddenly." — Epictetus.

January is officially behind us, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: growth isn’t about rushing to the finish line—it’s about steady, intentional steps forward.

The first month of the year is often filled with big ambitions, but reality rarely unfolds perfectly. Some goals were achieved, some were adjusted, and some are still in progress—and that’s okay. Learning to pivot without pressure has been one of my biggest takeaways.

In a recent article over at Wise Words, I reflect on: 👇

✨ The power of self-compassion when things don’t go to plan

✨ Why pivoting is a strength, not a setback

✨ The importance of experimenting in January to find what truly works

✨ How Stoicism has helped me stay grounded and embrace progress over perfection

If January didn’t unfold as expected, don’t let that define the rest of your year. February is a new chapter—one we can step into with wisdom, clarity, and a fresh perspective.

🔗 Read my reflections here: https://thesavvystoic.substack.com/p/january-reflections-lessons-from

What’s one lesson you’re taking into February? Let’s reflect together. 💭✨

04/02/2025

🌿 Temperance Tuesday: A Stoic Reflection on Health & Habits 🌿

"No man is free who is not master of himself." — Epictetus

Today is World Cancer Day, a time to reflect on health, choices, and the long-term impact of our habits. This day holds deep meaning for me—I lost my dad to cancer after years of smoking. His passing made me think about how our daily actions shape our future well-being.

Temperance, the Stoic virtue of moderation and self-restraint, extends beyond food or drink. It’s about recognising the balance between pleasure and harm, discipline and excess, choice and consequence.

We often hear phrases like "live for the moment," but what if true presence means making choices today that your future self will thank you for? Momentary pleasure isn’t always worth future suffering.

Stoic temperance teaches us that balance is key—whether in what we consume, how we move, or the habits we form. Self-discipline isn’t about restriction for its own sake; it’s about safeguarding our future selves from unnecessary pain.

While not all cancer cases are preventable, reflecting on the habits we do have control over can help us prioritise long-term wellbeing.

World Cancer Day reminds me: 👇

🟢 Small, daily choices add up—for better or worse.

🟢 Self-discipline is a form of self-respect.

🟢 Moderation ensures joy doesn’t come at a heavy cost later.

Take a moment to reflect: 👇

📌 Which habit or choice could you approach with more temperance?

📌 What’s one small change you can make to prioritise your long-term health and happiness?

For more information on World Cancer Day and how you can get involved, visit worldcancerday.org.

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Happy New Year! Better late than never, eh? 🎉 Something I'd like to do in 2023 is to share a range of content, including short videos, so here's my first one. ⬇️ I have a long way to go before it feels natural ️talking to the camera, but we have to start somewhere, right? 📸 I ramble about intention, difficulties making us stronger, sparkling water, and getting my inbox to zero. You can also hear my lovely dogs playing in the background. 🐶 If you have any suggestions for video topics, drop them below. I hope you're all having a great week. Stay Stoic! 💛 #Stoicism #Stoic #savvystoic #newyear #livewell #intentionalliving #courage #videocontent #video #philosophy #intention #stoicwisdom #strength #Instagood #Instagram #stoicwisdom #life #dryjanuary #mindset #mentalhealth

Though I haven't got around to sorting my many graduation photos out, I'm so glad Newcastle gives its students a personalised stage clip. 📹 I must admit, I was a little nervous when I stepped onto the stage, but I am grateful I'll have this clip to remember my special day and the incredible three years I had at Newcastle University. 🧑‍🎓 Behind me, all my memories. Before me, all my dreams. 💛 #graduation #graduationday #proud #achivement #smile