The Economic Times

Happiness Habit of the day by Stoic philosopher Marcus Aurelius: 'The happiness of those who want to be popular depends on others; but for the wise it grows out of...' What the Roman emperor teaches us about seeking validation

Marcus Aurelius argued that happiness built on popularity depends on other people, while pleasure is vulnerable to changing circumstances. For the Stoic philosopher and Roman emperor, lasting happiness comes from our own free acts. His lesson remains relevant in the age of social media, where likes, followers and approval can shape self-worth. Instead of constantly seeking validation, his philosophy encourages focusing on personal values, choices and actions within our control.