When you first start to study Stoicism it is pretty common to latch on to the concept that the only thing completely within our control is our thoughts. As I learned more about cognitive theory I started to understand that not all thoughts are created equally. Some of our thoughts rush into our minds as the byproduct of the events around us and our emotional response. These thoughts can be called “first thoughts.”
First thoughts are the ones we have to wrestle with. It is where the mental work gets done to challenge and dispute problematic thinking. The act of wrestling with our thoughts to shape them into proper and sound judgements is the point of control the Stoics teach about.
Wrestling with first thoughts is like any other skill. Most of us have some innate ability to face our thoughts, but to be a master takes time, energy, attention, and practice. Maybe even a few lessons from a professional.
