Feb 3, 2025
It is often said that apart from a high intelligence quotient, a person should also have a high emotional quotient to understand others-- this can in turn help you succeed in life. So, here we list 10 tips on how to read people using Stoic techniques.
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People often reveal their true nature through their actions, not promises. As Marcus Aurelius aptly said, "Waste no more time arguing about what a good man should be. Be one."
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Stay calm and neutral when analysing others and in stressful situations. Emotions cloud our judgment. Instead, learn to observe without reacting.
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Stoics believed in virtue through habit. A person's real character is often revealed through their repeated behaviours, and not one-time actions.
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It is only in difficult situations that a person's true character is revealed. See how someone responds to stress, criticism, or failure-- that is most probably their true nature.
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Epictetus said that people’s behaviours are mainly driven by what they desire or fear in life. Identify these, and you will understand a person's true motivations.
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Silence is a Stoic virtue. Let people talk and they'll reveal themselves, sooner or later.
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Seneca says that a person's true character can be judged by how they treat those who can do nothing for them. This simple test is truly profound.
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Do they exhibit patience, courage, and honesty—or deceit, arrogance, and impulsiveness? A person's actions and habits are a reflection of their innermost thoughts and feelings.
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Subtly disagree or challenge the other person's idea and notice how they handle this opposition. Are they calm or defensive- this will speak volumes about them.
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Stoics teaches us that our personal biases often distort perception. To understand people, look at them objectively instead of being emotionally attached to them.
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