Reasons Not to Worry

More about the book

In this heartfelt and insightful work, a beloved Guardian columnist embarks on a year-long journey to explore how to lead a rich and meaningful life, drawing on the wisdom of the Stoics. Like many, Brigid Delaney seeks answers to timeless questions: How can we be good? Find inner peace? Grieve properly? Tame insecurities like the fear of missing out? Centuries ago, Stoic philosophers pondered these same issues. At a pivotal moment in her life, Brigid chose to let these ancient thinkers guide her. While she is impulsive, the Stoics are logical; she thrives on chaos, while they advocate relinquishing control over the uncontrollable. Over the year, she dedicated herself to the teachings of Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius, hoping to uncover how to navigate modern life with their wisdom. In sharing her journey, Brigid reveals how we can also draw on Stoic principles to regain agency and tranquility. From learning to let go of control to embracing our mortality and fostering community, her insights are both humorous and profound. Stoicism may seem challenging, but Brigid makes it accessible and practical. Her guide offers compelling reasons not to worry, filled with thoughtful advice on how to be fully present in the world.