Katie Stidolph aka The Savvy Stoic

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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.

13/12/2024

✨ Fortitude Friday: Building Strength Through Winter ✨
"We must undergo a hard winter training and not rush into things for which we haven't prepared." – Epictetus

As winter draws near, it reminds us that life, like the seasons, often comes with its trials. Winter challenges us to prepare, to endure, and to grow stronger. ❄️

Whether it's weathering external storms or facing internal struggles, fortitude is built not in avoiding discomfort but in showing up and persevering, even when conditions are harsh. 💪

This season, let’s see winter as a time for preparation and reflection—a training ground for resilience. The strength we cultivate now will light the way to brighter, more hopeful days ahead. ☀️

Wishing you a season of growth and a weekend filled with calm and courage. Stay strong!

12/12/2024

✨ Thankful Thursday: Stoic Cheer for the Holiday Season ✨

"The holidays don’t need to be perfect—they just need to reflect you."

This week, I’m sharing a thoughtful guide for Stoic-inspired gift-giving. Whether you’re shopping for a fellow philosophy enthusiast, looking to simplify your gifting process, or just want to treat yourself, this post is packed with ideas to inspire serenity and gratitude this holiday season.

🎁 Let’s bring more meaning, less stress, and a touch of wisdom to our holiday giving. Explore gifts that focus on reflection, connection, and purpose.

💡 What’s your favourite thoughtful gift to give or receive? Share your ideas below! 🌿

🔗 Read the full guide here: https://rb.gy/61zdj6

11/12/2024

✨ Wisdom Wednesday: Finding Peace in Imperfect Connections ✨

“You don’t have to turn this into something. It doesn’t have to upset you.” – Marcus Aurelius.

Christmas is a time for connection, but let’s face it—it can also bring challenging dynamics to the surface. Maybe it’s an awkward conversation at the dinner table, old family disagreements, or clashing personalities.

The Stoics remind us that we can’t control how others act but can control how we respond. When faced with difficult interactions, we have the power to pause, breathe, and respond with patience instead of frustration.

🎄 This holiday season, let’s embrace these practices: 👇

1️⃣ Focus on what you can control. Your mindset, your tone, and your energy are yours to shape.

2️⃣ Practice empathy. People’s actions often reflect their own struggles, not yours. Recognising this can help you respond with compassion.

3️⃣ Prioritise peace. It’s okay to step back and let small things go—it doesn’t mean you’re weak but wise.

4️⃣ Know your boundaries. Being kind doesn’t mean tolerating harm. Recognise when a situation isn’t good for you, and protect your well-being.

Remember: The holidays aren’t about perfection; they’re about presence. 💛

💡 How do you handle challenging moments with loved ones? Let’s reflect together. 🌿

10/12/2024

🌿✨ Temperance Tuesday: The Quiet Art of Balance ✨🌿

Temperance isn’t just about saying “no” or holding back—it’s about creating harmony in our lives. 🌟

Recently, I’ve been reflecting on the last twelve months. 💭

There’s been so much to celebrate: a new job that gives me space to focus on The Savvy Stoic and watching Wise Words grow. But I’ve also noticed areas where I’ve let important habits slide—like prioritising the gym and my physio routine after being ill. Now, I’m feeling the effects, and it’s a reminder that balance is key.

Sometimes, when we focus too much on one area, another begins to suffer. True balance comes when we pause, reflect, and gently realign ourselves. That’s the quiet power of temperance—using restraint not to limit ourselves but to live with intention.

💡 This week, I’m taking a moment to check in and ask myself: Where am I focused too much? What am I neglecting? How can I realign? 💭

How about you? Let’s reflect together. 🌿

09/12/2024

🌿✨ Mindful Monday: Spendthrifts of Time ✨🌿

"Time is our most irreplaceable asset—we cannot buy more of it. We can only strive to waste as little as possible." – The Daily Stoic.

As we start a new week, let’s reflect on how we spend our most precious resource. Are we guarding our time as fiercely as we guard our possessions? Or are we letting distractions, interruptions, and busyness steal it away? 💭

This week, take a moment to pause. Reclaim your time. Choose reflection over reaction. Let’s be mindful of where our attention (and time) goes because that’s where our lives flow. 💛

06/12/2024

💪✨ Fortitude Friday: The Benefits of Sobering Thoughts ✨💪

"Keep death and exile before your eyes each day, along with everything that seems terrible—by doing so, you’ll never have a base thought nor will you have excessive desire." — Epictetus, Enchiridion, 21

Life’s uncertainties can feel overwhelming—plans may fall apart, freedoms can be taken away, and challenges arise when we least expect them. But instead of fearing these possibilities, Epictetus invites us to reflect on them.

Like the fleeting nature of life, Sobering thoughts don’t have to be morbid; they can be a powerful reminder to live intentionally, focus on what truly matters, and rise above fear.

This Fortitude Friday, let’s embrace the Stoic practice of keeping these truths in mind—not to dwell on what could go wrong, but to gain clarity, build resilience, and live with purpose and strength. 🌟

Here’s a challenge for you: 👇

Today, reflect on one aspect of life’s uncertainty and how it shapes what’s most important to you. How can you use that reflection to live more intentionally? 💭

05/12/2024

🌟🙏 Thankful Thursday: Gratitude in the Festive Chaos 🎄🙏

“Think not so much of what you lack as of what you have: but of the things that you have, select the best, and then reflect on how eagerly you would have sought them if you did not have them.” — Marcus Aurelius

As the holiday season approaches, it’s easy to get swept up in the rush—gifts, plans, expectations. But Marcus Aurelius reminds us to pause and reflect on the abundance already in our lives.

Today, I’m thankful for the small yet meaningful moments: 👇

1️⃣ The glow of fairy lights on the tree.
2️⃣ The warmth of a cup of cinnamon tea.
3️⃣ The simple joys that make this season special.

What’s one thing you’re grateful for as we approach the holidays? Share your reflections below—I’d love to hear them. 🎁✨

04/12/2024

📚✨ Wisdom Wednesday: A Timeless Gift of Wisdom ✨📚

"Look within. Within is the fountain of good, and it will ever bubble up, if you will ever dig." — Marcus Aurelius.

If there’s one book I return to time and time again, it’s Meditations by Marcus Aurelius. This well-worn copy has been my companion through life’s ups and downs, offering wisdom, guidance, and perspective.

For me, Meditations is more than a book—it’s a timeless conversation with one of history’s greatest philosophers, filled with reflections on resilience, self-control, and living a meaningful life. It’s a perfect read for quiet mornings, reflective evenings, or any time you need a moment of clarity.

With Christmas just around the corner, why not consider gifting this classic to someone special? It’s a thoughtful way to inspire reflection and self-growth. 🎁

What’s your go-to book for wisdom and inspiration? Let me know in the comments—I’m always looking to add to my collection!

Happy Wednesday. I hope you're having a great week. 😊

03/12/2024

✨ Temperance Tuesday: The Power of Showing Up ✨

"You can always edit a bad page. You can’t edit a blank page." — Jodi Picoult.

When I started Wise Words back in February, I had no idea how much this journey would teach me about persistence, discipline, and self-growth. Over these past 40 weeks, I’ve written through it all—illness, exhaustion, and even a touch of a hangover! But what mattered most was showing up, no matter how imperfectly. 🙌

This week marks a 40-week writing streak, and Wise Words has grown from 0 to almost 150 subscribers. Watching this little corner of the internet flourish is a reminder that small, consistent steps lead to big results.

Temperance is about self-control and commitment to what truly matters, and this journey has been proof that dedication pays off, even when the road feels challenging.

Here’s what I’ve learned from 40-plus weeks of writing: 👇

1️⃣ Start Small but Stay Consistent: Progress isn’t about perfection; it’s about showing up and doing the work, even on the hard days.

2️⃣ Discipline Brings Freedom: Sticking to a schedule creates space for creativity and growth—it’s liberating to know you’re building something meaningful, one step at a time.

3️⃣ Celebrate Your Milestones: Whether you’re writing, working out, or pursuing any other goal, take a moment to reflect on how far you’ve come. Every small victory adds up.

What’s one area in your life where showing up has made all the difference, even when it’s hard? 💭

👉 Not subscribed yet? Join the journey today and be part of Wise Words! https://thesavvystoic.substack.com

02/12/2024

🌿✨ Mindful Monday: Reflecting on November’s Lessons ✨🌿

“Happiness, not in another place but this place… not for another hour, but this hour.” — Walt Whitman

With November now behind us and December just beginning, let’s take a moment to reflect on the lessons, joys, and growth that the past month has brought.

For me, that included stepping outside my comfort zone, embracing small moments of courage and connection, and finding the power of presence and intentionality.

As we head into the festive season, I invite you to pause and consider: 👇

1️⃣ What are you carrying forward from November?
2️⃣ What small joys or lessons will guide you in the weeks to come? 💭

👉 Read the full post here: https://shorturl.at/wzmtz

Here’s to a mindful start to the week, Wise Reader—living with intention, cherishing the present, and embracing the beauty of each day. 🌿✨

29/11/2024

🌟💪 Fortitude Friday: Embracing Courage in Small Steps 💪🌟

"You have power over your mind, not outside events. Realise this, and you will find strength." — Marcus Aurelius

Have you ever wanted to try something new but held back because you didn’t want to do it alone? 💭

In one of my recent posts, I dive into the Stoic art of embracing solitude and finding courage in small, meaningful moments—whether it’s dining solo, taking yourself on a trip, or simply enjoying your own company.

Every solo adventure is a chance to grow stronger, more resilient, and more connected with yourself. Let’s break free from the fear of judgment and take bold steps toward independence. 💛

🗺️ Your Challenge This Week: 👇

Take yourself out on a solo adventure, big or small, and reflect on how it feels to embrace your own company.

👉 Read the full post and discover how Stoic principles can help you build courage and resilience one step at a time. https://shorturl.at/SmGm7

28/11/2024

✨ Thankful Thursday: Grateful for My Wise Readers ✨

Over the past nine months, watching Wise Words grow from 0 to over 100 subscribers—including paying ones—has been an amazing journey. Building this community has been a joy, and knowing my writing has made a positive impact is the best gift I could ask for. 🌿

Every message, smile, or story shared reminds me why I started this journey—to brighten someone’s day, share a little wisdom, and connect with like-minded souls. Thank you to everyone who has signed up and supported Wise Words since February. You’re all a part of something truly special, and I’m so excited to share the many new things I’m working on with you over the next year. 🙏💛

Not subscribed? Join us and become a Wise Reader! 🌱

🔗 https://thesavvystoic.substack.com

27/11/2024

🌟 Wisdom Wednesday: The Power of Tuning Out the Negative 🌟

"How satisfying it is to dismiss and block out any upsetting or foreign impression, and immediately to have peace in all things."— Marcus Aurelius

In a world overflowing with noise—from endless social media updates to heated political debates—Stoicism offers us a refreshing reminder: we have the power to turn our attention away from what drains us.

As Publius Syrus wisely said, "Always shun that which makes you angry." Why waste energy on arguments or provocations that only lead to frustration? Instead, the Stoics teach us to cultivate a form of strategic ignorance—not as avoidance, but as strength.

So, the next time you find yourself pulled into negativity, try this: 👇

1️⃣ Pause and acknowledge your typical reaction.
2️⃣ Say, "I’m not going to let this affect me today."
3️⃣ Commit to removing unnecessary triggers from your life moving forward.

By consciously choosing where to focus your precious energy, you create space for inner peace and serenity. Not everything demands your attention—your well-being is worth more. Remember this!

How will you practice tuning out the noise this week? Let me know below! 💭

26/11/2024

🌿✨ Temperance Tuesday: Protecting Your Inner Peace ✨🌿

"If a person gave your body to any stranger he met on his way, you would certainly be angry. And do you feel no shame in handing over your own mind to be confused and mystified by anyone who happens to verbally attack you?" – Epictetus

Maintaining mental clarity is a superpower in a world where distractions are endless, and people often feel entitled to an opinion about your life.

Temperance isn't just about restraint—it's about safeguarding your inner peace, no matter what external forces try to throw you off balance.

This ancient wisdom from Epictetus reminds us to treat our minds with the same respect we give to our physical boundaries. Would you let just anyone walk into your home uninvited? Then why let someone’s words or negativity disrupt your thoughts?

Today, take a moment to reflect: 👇

1️⃣ Are you allowing someone else’s words or opinions to invade your peace of mind?

2️⃣ How can you set boundaries—mentally and emotionally—to protect yourself?

Temperance is about finding balance and owning your reactions. ⚖️

The next time someone tries to provoke you, take a deep breath and ask yourself: “Do I want to let this person rent space in my head?” 💭

Let’s strive for calm and clarity in a chaotic world. Here's to mastering the art of temperance. 🌿✨

25/11/2024

🌟🎄 Mindful Monday: Stoic Calm in the Christmas Chaos 🎄🌟

"The greatest obstacle to living is expectancy, which hangs upon tomorrow and loses today." — Seneca, On the Shortness of Life.

With Christmas under a month away, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by anxiety and expectations. Endless to-do lists, gift-buying stress, and family obligations can become burdensome. However, Seneca reminds us that focusing too much on what lies ahead can cause us to lose sight of the present moment. 🎁

Stoicism teaches us to focus on what is within our control and to embrace today with calmness and clarity.

Here are three ways to find Stoic calm this festive season: 👇

1️⃣ Control Your Perspective: Shift your focus from how things “should” be to appreciating what is. Not every gift or plan will be perfect, and that’s okay. Perfection isn’t the goal—connection is.

2️⃣ Focus on What’s Essential: Ask yourself, “What truly matters this season?” Let go of anything that doesn’t align with your values, whether it’s overspending, overcommitting, or overthinking.

3️⃣ Practise Gratitude: Reflect on the people and moments that make this time of year special. Gratitude helps us see the beauty in simplicity.

This Christmas, let’s focus on being present, finding balance, and letting go of what we can’t control. ✨

What’s your biggest challenge during the holidays, and how do you manage it? 💭

22/11/2024

🌟 Fortitude Friday: Unmasking Confidence 💪🌟

True strength isn’t just about pushing through challenges—it’s about learning to embrace who we truly are, free from the need for others’ approval.

As Marcus Aurelius wisely said: 👇

"We all love ourselves more than other people, but care more about their opinion than our own."

In a recent article, I share my journey of going makeup-free at work and how letting go of external judgment has unlocked a deeper sense of confidence and freedom. It’s a reminder that grit isn’t just physical or mental—it’s in the courage to be authentically you. 🌿

As we close out the week, take a moment to reflect on this: what’s one “mask” you’re ready to set aside as you move forward? 💭

Read the full article here: https://shorturl.at/YeiCs. ✨

21/11/2024

🌟🙏 Thankful Thursday: A Stoic Milestone 🙏🌟

Last week, I saw Ryan Holiday live—an unforgettable moment in my Stoic journey. Being surrounded by like-minded individuals eager to learn and grow reminded me of the power of community and shared wisdom.

While I might be a few rows back in this group shot, it’s not about being seen; it’s about the experience itself. Hearing Ryan’s insights and reflecting on the principles that have shaped my life filled me with gratitude. It’s a reminder that Stoicism isn’t just about reading—it’s about living, learning, and connecting.

Thanks to everyone who made this event so special. Here’s to continuing the journey with wisdom and gratitude. 🌿✨

👉 Have you ever attended a talk or event that left a lasting impact on you? I’d love to hear about it! 💬

20/11/2024

🌟📚 Wisdom Wednesday: Lessons in Stoicism 📚🌟

"What if someone told you that much of the suffering in your life was simply due to the way you think about things? Anxiety, frustration, fear, disappointment—what if these were all products of looking at the world in a mistaken way?" — John Sellars

I always recommend this short but insightful book by John Sellars to anyone curious about Stoicism. It distils the philosophy into practical lessons we can use in our everyday lives, reminding us of the importance of resilience, perspective, and aligning our actions with our values.

I love how Sellars captures the essence of Stoicism without overcomplicating it, making it accessible to beginners and seasoned readers alike. Every time I revisit this read, I find something new to reflect on—proof that wisdom is a lifelong journey.

💭 Have you read this book, or is it on your reading list?

Here’s to another week of applying Stoic wisdom in our lives. 🌿✨

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http://www.thesavvystoic.com/, https://thesavvystoic.substack.com/

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