The Emperor of Ancient Rome, Marcus Aurelius, can teach you a thing or two about a good and satisfying life.

The Ancient Romans knew a thing or two about life, in particular, Emperor Marcus Aurelius. You may not know that many of the philosophical quotes that you know, came from Ancient Roman times.

Aurelius was the Emperor between 161 and 180 AD and even then, thousands of years ago, he wrote about meditation, mindfulness, self-discipline, ethics, and humility. He said exactly what so many of today’s philosophers say - be kind, be mindful, be aware and be real.

His most famous quote, which is so apt in today’s world, is:-

“Today I escaped anxiety. Or no, I discarded it, because it was within me, in my own perceptions—not outside.”

If you are feeling anxious, or dissatisfied with your life, try some of these tips from Aurelius.

1. Be Quiet

Saying this, Aurelius means you should be peaceful, have thoughts that are free of interruption, spend time alone, walking, wandering, mediating and thinking. Escape into your mind for inner peace.

2. Be positive

Shed negative thoughts. Feel your emotions, whether positive or negative, but after acknowledging the negative shed them.

3. Change your expectations

Do not ask the impossible, either of yourself or of others.

4. Nobody is perfect.

Embrace people’s faults or try not to see them as faults. Everyone is different, unique, including you.

5. Be kind

Do not do harm to anyone, do not let anyone do harm to you.

6. Be tolerant

Remember not to judge others and do not let others judge you. If they do, breathe in and move on.

7. Be democratic

Listen, learn and be aware of everyone’s feelings. No one person’s feelings are more important than others.

8 Let go of anger, bitterness, and resentment.

It does not help anyone if you hold on to grudges. Breathe in, be accepting, understand and move forward.