Stoicism might seem like an odd philosophy to consult for shopping advice. After all, the ancient Stoics, such as Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, and Seneca, repeatedly emphasized that true happiness can’t be purchased. They taught that fulfillment comes from virtue, wisdom, and inner peace—not from accumulating possessions.
Yet even the Stoics recognized that some material goods can support the pursuit of wisdom and virtue. The key difference is intention: Stoics didn’t buy things to impress others or fill an emotional void. They acquired items that genuinely served their philosophical practice and helped them live in accordance with nature.
So what would a Stoic actually recommend buying? Here are five purchases that align with Stoic principles and can genuinely support your path to a more meaningful life.
1. Books on Philosophy and Wisdom
“The mind needs to be helped and relieved by means of study; it is this that holds it to its course, this that recalls it to itself, this that sets it free, this that provides peace and a remedy for its troubles.” – Seneca.
The Stoics were avid readers and students of philosophy. Marcus Aurelius frequently referenced other philosophers in his “Meditations,” and Seneca’s letters are replete with insights from diverse schools of thought.
Investing in books—particularly philosophical texts—is perhaps the most Stoic purchase you can make. These aren’t just any books, though. The Stoics would prioritize works that challenge your thinking, expose you to different perspectives, and help you develop wisdom.
Start with the classic Stoic texts: “Meditations” by Marcus Aurelius, “Letters from a Stoic” by Seneca, and “The Enchiridion” by Epictetus. Then expand to related philosophy, biography, history, and practical wisdom from any tradition that helps you live a better life.
The beauty of books is their incredible return on investment. For the price of a few lattes, you gain access to the accumulated wisdom of humanity’s greatest thinkers. That’s a transaction the Stoics would definitely approve of.
2. A Journal for Daily Reflection
“When the light has been removed and my wife has fallen silent, aware of this habit that’s now mine, I examine my entire day and go back over what I’ve done and said, hiding nothing from myself, passing nothing by.” – Seneca.
Stoicism isn’t just about reading philosophy—it’s about practicing it. Marcus Aurelius didn’t write “Meditations” for publication; he wrote it as a private journal for self-reflection and improvement.
A quality journal serves as your tool for Stoic practice. Each evening, you can review your day: Where did you act virtuously? Where did you fall short? What triggered negative emotions? How can you respond better tomorrow?
The Stoics referred to this practice as “self-examination,” and it’s central to their philosophy. This regular practice helps you identify patterns, track progress, and internalize Stoic principles through daily application.
A journal doesn’t need to be expensive—the Stoics valued simplicity over luxury. What matters is that you use it consistently for honest self-reflection. This daily habit helps you transform philosophical ideas into lived experience.
3. Durable, Functional Essentials
“Wealth consists not in having great possessions, but in having few wants.” – Epictetus.
The Stoics weren’t ascetics who rejected all possessions. They believed in owning quality items that served a genuine purpose, rather than accumulating cheap, trendy stuff that needed constant replacement.
This principle applies to everything from clothing to household goods. Instead of buying five cheap shirts that fall apart, buy two well-made ones that last for years. Instead of replacing flimsy cookware repeatedly, invest in durable pieces that perform well and stand the test of time.
This approach aligns with several Stoic values. First, it embodies moderation—owning what you need without excess. Second, it demonstrates wisdom by considering long-term value over short-term savings. Third, it reduces the mental clutter and maintenance burden that comes with managing too many possessions.
Marcus Aurelius, despite being emperor of Rome, famously preferred simple clothing and possessions. He understood that quality items that serve their purpose well free up mental energy for more important pursuits.
4. Education and Skill Development
“Only the educated are free.” – Epictetus.
The Stoics believed that developing your capabilities and understanding was one of the few truly worthwhile investments. Unlike material goods that can be lost or stolen, knowledge and skills become part of who you are.
This might mean paying for a course that develops a valuable skill, attending workshops that challenge your thinking, or investing in training that improves your health or abilities. The key is that these purchases should support your personal growth, not just pad your resume or impress others.
Epictetus, who started life as an enslaved person, eventually became one of history’s most influential philosophers through education. He taught that while you can’t control external circumstances, you can always control how much you learn and grow.
Modern applications might include language learning programs, professional development courses, fitness training, or workshops in practical skills. The test is simple: Will this purchase help you become more capable, knowledgeable, or virtuous? If yes, it’s a Stoic-approved investment.
5. Items That Support Health and Discipline
“You have power over your mind—not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.” – Marcus Aurelius.
The Stoics recognized that maintaining physical health wasn’t vanity—it was a responsibility. A healthy body supports a clear mind, and physical discipline strengthens mental discipline.
This might mean buying proper athletic shoes for regular exercise, a gym membership you’ll actually use, nutritious food instead of processed junk, or equipment for physical fitness you’re committed to.
The keyword is “support.” The Stoics wouldn’t endorse buying expensive fitness gadgets that gather dust or premium gym memberships for the status symbol. They’d focus on simple, practical items that remove barriers to consistent healthy habits.
Marcus Aurelius wrote about the importance of morning exercise and simple, nourishing food. Seneca practiced voluntary discomfort to strengthen his resolve. They understood that physical discipline and mental discipline reinforce each other.
This category also encompasses items that support good sleep, proper posture, or injury prevention—anything that helps you maintain the physical foundation necessary for living in accordance with Stoic principles.
Conclusion
The Stoic approach to purchasing is refreshingly simple: Buy things that genuinely support your growth, well-being, and practice of virtue. Avoid buying for status, distraction, or filling emotional voids.
Notice what’s missing from this list: luxury goods, status symbols, the latest gadgets, or anything designed to impress others. The Stoics understood that these purchases often create more problems than they solve, generating endless comparisons, maintenance headaches, and empty satisfaction.
Instead, focus on purchases that compound over time—books you’ll reference for years, journals filled with insights, quality items that last, education that transforms you, and health that supports everything else.
The ultimate Stoic test for any purchase: Will you be glad you bought this a year from now? Five years from now? If the answer is yes, it’s probably a wise investment. If not, save your money and invest it in something that truly matters.