Overview of Don’t Wait To Try It
This Daily Stoic episode argues that hesitation is often just self-deception: we tell ourselves we’ll start “later,” when we have more certainty, comfort, or confidence, but that delay teaches nothing. Drawing on Seneca and two core Stoic practices—memento mori and premeditatio malorum—the episode encourages listeners to act now, accept uncertainty, and use philosophy as a tool for real-life decision-making.
Key Ideas
Stop postponing action
The central message is that many important life decisions—moving, changing jobs, asking someone out, learning a skill—are delayed unnecessarily. Waiting often feels safer, but it prevents growth and self-discovery.
“Memento mori” creates urgency
Remembering death is presented not as grimness, but as a reminder that life is limited and there may not be a “later.” The point is to stop wasting time on endless deliberation.
“Premeditatio malorum” builds courage
By thinking through the worst-case scenario ahead of time, fear loses some of its power. Most outcomes are manageable, and imagining them clearly can make action feel less intimidating.
Action reveals the truth
The episode stresses that you don’t really learn whether something is right for you by thinking about it—you learn by doing it. Trying, failing, or discovering disinterest is still progress because it produces real information.
Stoic Practice in Daily Life
Turning philosophy into habit
The host shares that he uses physical reminders—a memento mori coin and ring—to stay mindful and resist procrastination. These objects serve as prompts to act with intention.
Philosophy should be embodied
Stoicism is framed as something you practice, not just discuss. The medallions and reminders are meant to make abstract ideas concrete, especially during difficult or high-stakes moments.
Main Takeaways
- Don’t wait for perfect conditions—they rarely arrive.
- Use memento mori to remember that time is limited.
- Use premeditatio malorum to face fear honestly and reduce hesitation.
- Action is the only way to discover what works for you.
- Stoic tools are meant to inspire behavior, not just thought.
Mentioned Resources
- Daily Stoic store: the episode points listeners to store.dailystoic.com for memento mori medallions and related items.
- The intro also includes a brief Dell back-to-school ad.