I've been thinking about this lately – what would Marcus Aurelius write to himself if he were dealing with our modern chaos? The emperor who found time to journal between military campaigns and political crises would probably have some thoughts about our notification-driven world. On my commute to the office once a week, I try to push myself to avoid screen time and spend that time reflecting or reading instead. This week, it's during the commute that I wondered what his private notes might look like if he were alive today. --- **On Social Media** "Remember, the approval of strangers on LinkedIn is no different from the cheers of the crowd in the Colosseum – fleeting, hollow, and irrelevant to your character. Post or don't post, but don't let the likes and comments determine your worth." **On Information Overload** "You cannot drink from every stream of information that flows past you. Choose your sources as carefully as you choose your friends. The mind that consumes everything absorbs nothing." **On Screen Time** "That glowing rectangle in your pocket is not your master unless you make it so. Use it as a tool, not a tether. Your attention is your most precious resource – spend it wisely." **On Doom Scrolling** "You refresh that timeline as if checking will change what's already happened. It won't. The world's chaos existed before you woke up and will continue after you sleep. Your anxious scrolling changes nothing except your peace of mind. Close the app." **On Remote Work** "Whether you labor in the palace or from your kitchen table, the quality of your work springs from the same source – your commitment to excellence. The location of your body matters less than the presence of your mind and intensity of your focus." **On Mindful Parenting** "Your children will test your patience daily, not out of malice but because they are learning to be human. Remember, you are not raising miniature adults but nurturing future citizens of the world. Your reaction to their chaos teaches them more than your words ever will." **On Canadian Winters** "You complain about the cold as if your displeasure could warm the air. Winter arrives whether you welcome it or curse it. Dress appropriately, find beauty in the frost, and remember that seasons change – including the difficult ones in your own life." --- The beauty of Marcus's approach was that he wrote for an audience of one – himself. No blog analytics, no engagement metrics, just pure reflection on how to live well in uncertain times. Maybe that's exactly what we need more of today. --- Disclaimer: Inspired by others. 💡 Thoughts are my own. 🧠 Some words may be borrowed. 🤖 Date: Jun 12, 2025