Nick Saben’s “The Process”

Nick Saban’s quote, “Don't think about winning the SEC Championship. Don't think about the national championship. Think about what you needed to do in this drill, on this play, in this moment. That's the process: Let's think about what we can do today, the task at hand,” offers a profound insight into the philosophy of Stoicism. This perspective, rooted in focusing on the present moment and the immediate task, echoes the teachings of ancient Stoic philosophers like Marcus Aurelius and Epictetus. By exploring how this mindset can be applied to modern life, we can uncover the timeless wisdom embedded in Stoicism and its relevance to achieving a more mindful and purposeful existence.?

In our fast-paced world, where the pursuit of long-term goals and distant achievements often overshadows the significance of daily actions, Saban’s advice serves as a crucial reminder. It aligns with Marcus Aurelius’ reflection in his “Meditations”: “Confine yourself to the present.” This Stoic principle emphasizes the importance of concentrating on the present moment, as it is the only time over which we have any real control. By focusing on what can be done now, we can reduce anxiety about the future and regrets about the past.

Consider the example of a student preparing for a final exam. The overwhelming thought of passing the course and achieving a high GPA can induce significant stress, leading to procrastination and inefficiency. However, by adopting Saban’s and the Stoics' approach, the student can break down the monumental task into manageable daily study sessions. Concentrating on mastering one chapter at a time or understanding a single concept each day shifts the focus from the daunting end goal to actionable steps. This method not only enhances learning but also fosters a sense of accomplishment and progress, reinforcing the power of the present moment.

Epictetus once said, “It's not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters.” This tenet underlines the Stoic belief in the importance of our responses to external events rather than the events themselves. In practical terms, this means we should prioritize our actions and attitudes over outcomes that are often beyond our control. For instance, in the workplace, an employee might be aiming for a promotion. Instead of fixating on the promotion itself, which may depend on numerous external factors, focusing on performing well in current tasks, improving skills, and maintaining a positive attitude will not only make the process more manageable but also more fulfilling.

Another real-life application of this Stoic principle can be seen in fitness and health. Many individuals set ambitious goals such as losing a significant amount of weight or running a marathon. While these goals provide direction, they can also become sources of frustration if progress is slow. By shifting the focus to daily habits—such as eating nutritious meals, exercising regularly, and getting adequate sleep—the process becomes more sustainable. Each small, consistent effort contributes to the larger goal, making the journey more rewarding and less overwhelming.

Stoicism teaches us that the pursuit of virtue and excellence is a continuous process, requiring attention to the present and the tasks at hand. Seneca wrote, “Every new beginning comes from some other beginning's end.” This perspective encourages us to view each moment as an opportunity for growth and improvement. By embracing this mindset, we can navigate life’s challenges with resilience and grace.

In personal relationships, the focus on present actions can transform interactions and strengthen bonds. For example, instead of striving to be the perfect partner or friend in an abstract sense, concentrating on being attentive, kind, and supportive in each interaction can lead to more meaningful and fulfilling relationships. The quality of our relationships is built on everyday actions and words, emphasizing the importance of living in the moment.

Furthermore, the Stoic practice of mindfulness—paying attention to our thoughts and actions without judgment—can greatly enhance our ability to stay present. Mindfulness meditation, a technique that involves focusing on the breath and observing thoughts as they arise, can help cultivate this awareness. By regularly practicing mindfulness, we can train our minds to return to the present moment more readily, thereby aligning with the Stoic emphasis on the here and now.

In the context of personal development, adopting the Stoic focus on the present can lead to significant improvements. Consider someone trying to learn a new skill, such as playing a musical instrument. The initial stages of learning can be discouraging, especially when compared to the proficiency of seasoned players. However, by concentrating on daily practice and celebrating small milestones—such as mastering a chord or playing a simple melody—the learner can stay motivated and gradually build their skills. This approach not only makes the learning process more enjoyable but also more effective.

Stoicism also advocates for accepting what we cannot change and directing our efforts towards what we can. This principle is succinctly captured in the Serenity Prayer: “Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference.” By embracing this wisdom, we can focus our energy on constructive actions rather than futile worries.

In the face of adversity, the Stoic approach can be particularly empowering. Take the example of someone facing a serious illness. The uncertainty and fear associated with such a situation can be overwhelming. However, by concentrating on what can be done each day—whether it’s following a treatment plan, maintaining a positive outlook, or seeking support from loved ones—the individual can regain a sense of control and agency. This focus on daily actions, rather than the overarching outcome, can provide comfort and strength.

Nick Saban’s quote encapsulates a core Stoic teaching: the importance of focusing on the present moment and the task at hand. By applying this principle in various aspects of life—education, work, health, relationships, and personal development—we can cultivate a more mindful and purposeful existence. The wisdom of Stoic philosophers like Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, and Seneca reinforces the value of this approach, encouraging us to embrace the present, act with intention, and find fulfillment in the process. As we navigate the complexities of modern life, the timeless teachings of Stoicism offer a guiding light, reminding us that true success and contentment lie in our daily actions and attitudes.

“Concentrate every minute like a Roman – like a man – on doing what’s in front of you with precise and genuine seriousness, tenderly, willingly, with justice. And on freeing yourself from all other distractions. Yes, you can – if you do everything as if it were the last thing you were doing in your life, and stop being aimless, stop letting your emotions override what your mind tells you, stop being hypocritical, self-centered, irritable. You see how few things you have to do to live a satisfying and reverent life? If you can manage this, that’s all even the gods can ask of you.” —Marcus Aurelius, Meditations