Ataraxia: at·a·rax·ia (n.): “A Greek term, in which one is imperturbable, full of lucid equanimity and feeling free; tranquility or untroubled mind.”
Ataraxia is a new word to me and one I already love. Thanks to Chip Conley and Christine Sperber of Modern Elder Academy for sharing it.
In looking into the Greek roots of this, one way it was felt one could achieve and maintain this state of “serene tranquility” irrespective of circumstance, was by suspending judgements (Epochē).
There is a lot more to this from the different schools of ancient Greek philosophy, so something for me to explore.
At the same time, it also feels very Buddhist, an element of which is that suffering comes from being in a state of want, whereas being unattached to want, goals, outcomes creates more of a sense of calm, of equanimity, of presence, of absence of the self, of suffering.
Oh, and as someone who has been a coach for more than a decade, I find all of these studies of ancient philosophies of relevance and value to my own practice, including that I am able to listen to others most deeply when I am absent of judgement and absolutely and calmly present. Imperturbable, even.