How Our Ancestors Found Peace in a Chaotic Age

Lessons from the Past for the Present

"The nearer a man comes to a calm mind, the closer he is to strength." — Marcus Aurelius

Hey Dream-chasing Big Chief,

Hope the week was kind to your goals

Recently, during my reflection ritual, I realized that focus is a form of peace. Focus nurtures a mental state of calm and tranquility, freeing the mind from distractions and clutter and allowing us to be fully present. This clarity contrasts sharply with the chaos that often surrounds us, making focus undeniably a type of peace.

In my own life, I have found that moments of quiet reflection—whether through meditation or simply sitting in nature—allow me to regain that sense of peace. I remember a particularly hectic week at work, where the demands felt overwhelming. Taking just ten minutes each day to focus on my breath and appreciate the simple things, like the warmth of the sun or the sounds of birds, helped me regain my balance.

Intrigued by this realization, I explored the history of gratitude, which emerged as a recurring theme in my investigation. Ancient philosophers believed gratitude was essential for happiness and peace, and their insights have evolved over time.

"Our life is what our thoughts make it." — Marcus Aurelius

Philosophers like Socrates, Confucius, and Aristotle viewed gratitude as vital for forming strong connections. They taught that expressing thanks is fundamental to being a good person. Different cultures shaped their own ideas about gratitude.

For instance, while Western cultures often emphasize verbal expressions of gratitude—like thank-you notes or direct acknowledgments—Eastern traditions may prioritize indirect expressions, such as acts of service or maintaining harmony in relationships. Native American traditions often celebrate gratitude to nature through ceremonies, illustrating how cultural contexts shape gratitude's expression.

Reflecting on my own experiences, I often help aspiring sales professionals in my downtime, guiding them through the transition into remote sales within the US and Canada. The gratitude I receive from these individuals is incredibly uplifting; they express thanks for the insights and support, reinforcing the importance of connection and mentorship in achieving our goals. Witnessing their growth and success has been immensely rewarding and reminds me of how impactful gratitude can be in building community and collaboration.

Historically, our ancestors discovered that practicing gratitude enhanced happiness and connection. When they took time to appreciate what they had—food, family, nature—they experienced less stress and more joy. Unlike today, they faced distractions rooted in survival, keeping them focused on what mattered most.

Without modern technology, our ancestors carefully planned their days, waking with the sun and retiring at dusk. Their focus on tasks like gathering food and building shelters naturally inspired a mindset of gratitude.

To further illustrate the importance of gratitude, let’s turn to Cicero, a prominent Roman orator and philosopher. Born in 106 BCE, Cicero received an excellent education, studying various philosophical schools that shaped his beliefs, particularly Stoicism and Platonism.

What set Cicero apart was his emphasis on gratitude as the foundation of all virtues. In his work De Officiis (On Duties), written in 44 BCE as a letter to his son, Cicero articulated that gratitude is not merely a social nicety but core to moral character. He believed that acknowledging our dependence on others nurtures humility, kindness, generosity, and justice. In contrast, ingratitude breeds selfishness and a lack of empathy.

Cicero faced significant personal and political challenges, notably during his consulship when he thwarted the Catiline Conspiracy in 63 BCE. This earned him temporary fame but also powerful enemies, leading to his exile in 58 BCE. During this difficult time, Cicero practiced the gratitude he preached, holding onto the belief that virtue was key to enduring adversity. His eventual return to Rome in 57 BCE, supported by loyal friends, affirmed his conviction in the importance of gratitude in sustaining relationships.

Cicero’s emphasis on gratitude resonated in a politically turbulent Rome. His works became moral guides, influencing how Romans viewed their relationships with each other and with the state. The concepts of beneficium (giving benefits) and gratia (returning gratitude) were central to social dynamics. Cicero encouraged people to view these exchanges as moral obligations essential for societal cohesion.

His influence extended beyond Rome, impacting early Christian thought during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. Church fathers like St. Augustine referenced Cicero’s ideas, integrating gratitude into Christian ethics and reinforcing gratitude toward God as a central teaching.

In modern discussions, gratitude is often highlighted in psychological and self-help contexts as a key to personal happiness. Studies in positive psychology affirm Cicero's insights: those who practice gratitude regularly tend to be happier, more resilient, and better connected to others. Research comparing cultural perceptions of gratitude shows both universal aspects and cultural nuances, revealing how different societies prioritize gratitude differently.

Challenges of Practicing Gratitude Today

In our busy world, practicing gratitude can feel overwhelming with the noise of social media and endless tasks. The constant barrage of distractions can lead to feelings of disconnection and anxiety, making it easy to overlook the simple act of appreciating what we have. This modern struggle often leaves us feeling more stressed and less fulfilled.

Reflecting on my own life, I sometimes find it challenging to pause and express gratitude amidst the hustle. There have been days when I felt drained and disconnected, realizing I hadn’t taken the time to appreciate the little things—like a friend’s text that brightened my day or a delicious meal shared with loved ones. Acknowledging these moments can shift my perspective and bring about a deeper sense of joy.

To bridge the wisdom of ancient thinkers with our contemporary lives, here are 5 Tips & Takeaways for Practicing Gratitude in Our Busy World:

1. Start a Gratitude Journal: Write down three things you’re thankful for each day. This simple act helps refocus your mind on the positive aspects of your life.
2. Express Thanks Regularly: Say thank you often, whether to family, friends, or even strangers. Expressing gratitude strengthens connections and spreads positivity.
3. Take Nature Walks: Spend time outdoors to appreciate the beauty around you. Nature reminds us of what’s important and helps clear our minds.
4. Practice Mindfulness: Dedicate a few minutes daily to sit quietly and reflect on what you’re grateful for. This practice can reduce stress and elevate your mood.
5. Limit Distractions: Set aside time each day to unplug from screens. This intentional break allows you to focus on what truly matters, making it easier to practice gratitude.

In conclusion, gratitude has been integral to the human experience for millennia, and by learning from ancient philosophers as well as incorporating their lessons into our busy lives, we can find joy and peace.

Welcoming gratitude can combat modern distractions, enhancing our well-being and connections with others, so as we reflect on the wisdom of the past, let’s make gratitude a part of our daily lives, appreciating the abundance we have and nurturing deeper relationships with ourselves and those around us.

I appreciate you and the time you took out of your day to read this! You can find more articles like this from me here, and while you’re here, look at some of them and subscribe for more daily tips and weekly articles like this.