The Art of Living (and Working): How Stoicism Can Help You Find the Right Job

The Art of Living (and Working): How Stoicism Can Help You Find the Right Job

The Art of Living (and Working): How Stoicism Can Help You Find the Right Job

Epictetus, a great Stoic philosopher, taught that true success and fulfilment come from within. His teachings on personal responsibility, resilience, and self-discipline can be directly applied to job searching, career changes, and professional growth. Here’s how Stoic wisdom can guide you in finding the right job and succeeding in your career:

1. Focus on What You Can Control

In job searching, you can’t control how many people apply for the same role, how long a company takes to respond, or whether an employer chooses you. But you can control your preparation, your networking efforts, and your mindset. Focus on crafting a strong CV, improving your interview skills, and being persistent in your job search.

2. Distinguish Between Desire and Will

You may desire a high-paying, fulfilling job immediately, but your will determines how you approach the process. Align your expectations with reality—landing the right job takes consistent effort, learning, and patience. Don’t chase jobs for salary alone; find roles that align with your skills, values, and long-term goals.

3. Practice Acceptance

Rejection is part of the job search. Instead of seeing it as failure, accept it as feedback. Every rejection is an opportunity to refine your approach. Maybe your CV needs improvement, or you need to develop stronger interview techniques. Accept the reality of competition and use it to grow.

4. Embrace Adversity

A job search can be tough—long waits, countless applications, and even knockbacks. See adversity as training for resilience. Every tough moment is preparing you for a better opportunity. The ability to stay motivated despite setbacks will make you stand out to employers.

5. Seek Inner Peace

If your happiness is tied solely to getting a job, you’re giving control of your well-being to external factors. Build confidence from within. Take breaks, develop new skills, and remind yourself that job searching is a phase, not your identity. Your worth isn’t determined by a single job offer.

6. Value Virtue Above All

In job hunting and career decisions, integrity matters. Avoid dishonest tactics, misleading CVs, or taking jobs that don’t align with your values. Employers respect candidates who are authentic, hardworking, and committed to ethical success.

7. Engage in Self-Reflection

Before applying for just any job, ask yourself: What do I truly want? What am I good at? What kind of work fulfils me? Regular self-reflection helps you target the right jobs rather than blindly applying. Reflect on past roles, achievements, and areas for growth to position yourself better.

8. Cultivate Gratitude

Job searching can feel exhausting, but don’t forget what you already have—your skills, experience, and opportunities to improve. Be grateful for interviews, feedback, and learning experiences. Gratitude shifts your mindset from frustration to motivation.

9. Understand the Nature of Desire

Sometimes, people chase job titles, salaries, or status without questioning why they want them. Are you chasing a job because it genuinely suits you, or because it sounds impressive? Clarify your priorities—a job that aligns with your skills and values will bring more satisfaction than one chosen out of pure ambition.

10. Live in Accordance with Nature (and Your Strengths)

Not everyone is meant to be in a high-pressure corporate role, just as not everyone thrives in creative environments. Find a career path that aligns with your natural strengths and interests. The most successful people don’t fight against their true abilities—they embrace and develop them.

Final Thought: Master the Art of Career Growth

Epictetus teaches that fulfilment isn’t about chasing outcomes but about mastering the process. The same applies to job searching and career growth. Stay disciplined, resilient, and focused on what truly matters. Your ideal job isn’t just about luck—it’s about mindset, preparation, and persistence.

 Mark Goode

CEO Inspired Recruitment

Mark Goode is the CEO of The Inspired Recruitment Group which originated with the inception of Inspired Selections a recruitment agency primarily focused on recruitment in the optical industry before branching out into audiology and pharmaceutical recruitment. New optical opportunities are featured daily here or if you're a business, looking for help with your recruitment needs, get in touch here