Instead of looking inside to think about how we can improve ourselves, we create a false front to show the world that we’re not just meeting society’s expectations – we’re smashing through them.

Fast on a regular basis. Taking the restricted diet a step further, try abstaining from food completely for 24 hours every month or so. As long as you drink plenty of water, a day without food will not do you any harm (but check with your doctor if you have any medical concerns).

So, if nothing lasts forever, what’s really important? This moment right now. The only thing that matters is being the best person you can be at all times.

Time is our most valuable possession. Spend it wisely and focus your efforts on living a virtuous life that contributes to a just, equitable society.

“Every hour focus your mind attentively…on the performance of the task in hand, with dignity, human sympathy, benevolence and freedom, and leave aside all other thoughts. You will achieve this, if you perform each action as if it were your last…” – Marcus Aurelius

Nothing to be Frightened of by Julian Barnes, When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi, The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion, The Bright Hour: A Memoir of Living and Dying by Nina Riggs, The End of your Life Book Club by Will Schwalbe, or Dying: A Memoir by Cory Taylor.

Choose a mundane activity, something you do every day, and slow it right down.

One of the most important aspects of living a Stoic life is recognising what you can and cannot change.

Journaling improves your memory.