How to Control the Uncontrollable: 10 Game-Changing Ideas to Help You Think Like a Stoic and Build a Resilient Life

by Ben Aldridge

“The more we value things outside our control the less control we have” Epictetus

Every one of us will encounter tough times. There’s no escape.  This is what it means to be human. But what if there was a way to make these tough times easier?

Enter Stoicism.

This ancient Greek philosophy has a lot to offer that is as relevant today as it was 2000 years ago – its guiding purpose was to help us to live better lives.  The Stoic Golden Rule was that “we can’t control external events, but we can choose how to respond to them”. This idea can have a profound effect on how we exist in the world.

Taking Stoic philosophy into the everyday, practical philosopher and adventurer Ben Aldridge, explores the 10 key Stoic guiding principles and how they can help you build a more resilient life.  

This book isn’t just for philosophizing – it’s a book for doing. 

Ben also shares a host of challenges that you can use to put Stoicism into practice.  These



Creating your own anti-bucket listIntentionally experiencing voluntary discomfortCultivating a non-judgemental approach to lifeContemplating your own mortality (Memento Mori)

“You have the power over your mind – not outside events.  Realize this, and you will find strength” Marcus Aurelius

Genres: Nonfiction, Self Help

242 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 14, 2022

About the author

Ben Aldridge writes about practical philosophy, comfort zones, mental health and adventure. His first book "How to Be Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable: 43 Weird & Wonderful Ways to Build a Strong Resilient Mindset" is an exploration of unique ways to leave our comfort zones, face our fears and overcome our anxieties. Heavily influenced by Stoicism, Buddhism, Popular Psychology and CBT, Ben's challenges encourage us to get uncomfortable and experience the personal growth that we can only gain from pushing ourselves to the limit.

Reviews

[Joe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book!

Absolutely loved this book. Really fun read with lots of practical philosophy. 5 stars! Will be rereading again very soon as I enjoyed it so much.

[Ton Verleg · Rating 4 out of 5]

For those who want to understand the basics of the Stoics and how we still can use their insights today. Easy language to read.

[Bridget Davidson · Rating 3 out of 5]

The philosophy, ideas and practical tips within are fascinating but the book itself is astonishingly overwritten and repetitive. The author has his voice and tone which are not for me (too patronising), but the editor should never have allowed what could fit into a slim pamphlet to be written as a book. Read with gritted teeth.

[Michele · Rating 4 out of 5]

Easy, enjoyable read that covers the basics of Stoicism.
Quotes I liked:
xv: speaking of the pandemic
The only thing that made the absurdity of the situation any better- although only slightly- was the vast number of high quality memes flying around on the internet. Ah, memes… the world can be on fire and in utter chaos and there will always be someone out there trying to make us laugh. This is something I love and admire about the human spirit.

Liked the RAIN principle on pg. 120

R recognize the emotions
A accept your feelings.
I investigate
N non attachment let it go. It is what it is. It will pass.

I think this would be a fun book for book group because we could do something that made us uncomfortable and then discuss it.
Also the anti bucket list is intriguing.

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is brilliant and I highly recommend it!
It’s mainly about Stoicism (something that I really like) and I love the author’s take on the philosophy. The ideas are presented in a nice and easy to read format with plenty of practical components. There are lots of interesting challenges to try and I’m excited about testing them out. It has a great blend of philosophy and challenges. Loved it!

[Ed · Rating 4 out of 5]

A practical and comprehensive introduction to the principles you can adopt to becoming more Stoic.

Ben writes in a friendly way whilst encouraging you to engage in challenges that will help you achieve a tranquil life, one that is less plagued by shame, self-deception, and anxiety.

A really helpful book. Well done, Ben!

[Larry (LPosse1) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ben Aldridge has written a wonderful book about Stoicism. It is first an accessible work. He covers the topic like a glove. I have read every major work on the Stoicism and most of the original stoics. Aldridge’s book stands with all of those works.
Please don’t confuse this text with an academic work. It’s not intended to be. The author set out to write a book to help readers to use stoicism to solve problems that modern life presents. Aldridge accomplishes the task with aplomb!
I recommend this book as a jumping off point for anyone with an interest in learning more about Stoicism.

[Jodie Cook · Rating 5 out of 5]

Relatable guidance for a better life.

I always love Ben's way of looking at everyday life in order to live happier. This book didn't disappoint and I recommend it to anyone looking for new strategies to better navigate the turbulence of modern life, especially entrepreneurship.

[Ross Fossard · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very readable introduction to Stoicism aimed primarily at those new to the philosophy.

Ben summarises key stoic principles and provides 50 ideas for incorporating these ideas into your daily life.

[Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love everything Ben does. An amazing read for any modern stoic!

[Jake Wharmby · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lot of mumbo jumbo but it's a great into to Stoicism with a lot of contemporary examples and exercises for every day life.

[Luke Latchman · Rating 2 out of 5]

Perhaps an unfair rating as I didn’t connect with the system of stoicism. It’s a nice short introduction to a belief system that doesn’t sound right for me.