Stoics Are Just Buddhists with Attitudes

Have you ever noticed how Stoicism and Buddhism are like cousins at a family reunion? One is quietly meditating in the corner, radiating peace, while the other is giving you a side-eye and saying, “Yeah, life’s hard—deal with it.” Different vibes, same core message.

Both philosophies boil down to a truth we all secretly know but don’t always want to admit: life doesn’t always go our way. The Buddhists remind us that suffering is inevitable, but peace is possible through mindfulness and compassion. The Stoics? They nod, sip their strong coffee, and say, “Exactly. Control what you can, accept what you can’t, and stop whining about the weather.”

It’s almost comical how similar the practices are.

• Buddhists meditate.

• Stoics journal.

• Buddhists practice non-attachment.

• Stoics practice detachment.

• Buddhists say, “This too shall pass.”

• Stoics say, “Memento mori”—remember, you’re going to die.

(Which is basically the same idea, just with more dramatic flair.)

Both paths encourage us to slow down, zoom out, and stop letting every little thing rattle us. And honestly, in today’s world of endless notifications, doomscrolling, and traffic that could turn even a monk into a grump, that reminder is pure gold.

You don’t have to choose one camp. You don’t have to wear robes or grow a philosopher’s beard. You can borrow from both. You can sit quietly with your breath like a Buddhist, then write down your grocery-store frustrations like a Stoic. It’s all part of the same journey—living with more awareness, more grace, and maybe a little less drama.

So, are Stoics just Buddhists with attitudes? Maybe. But don’t we all need a little attitude sometimes? Whether you’re chanting “Om” or muttering “It is what it is,” the goal is the same: more peace, less suffering, and maybe a laugh or two along the way.

Stay gentle, stay human, and may your wisdom come with just the right amount of sass.

✨ With warmth, Sandra