History Writing: Be Like Julius Cesar

History Writing: Be Like Julius Cesar

“Veni, vidi, vici”
Julius Caesar

Gaius Julius Caesar: A Study of Character and Mindset

Introduction:

Gaius Julius Caesar, a dictator, a senator, a leader, and a man with ambition. Though he’s recognized as one of the greatest conquerors in human history, this title came at a high cost.

But beyond Caesar’s historical exploits, we can examine his personality for insights. He was a complex individual, possibly narcissistic, and undoubtedly power-hungry and ambitious. There’s much we can learn from his character.

Addressing societal mental health issues often involves modifying individual mindsets. We can gain insights on problem-solving from successful individuals or historical figures.

Addressing the Modern Mental Health Crisis: Insights from Historical Figures

We are currently experiencing a rising mental health crisis. This crisis is a conflict between modern technology and traditional societal structures and norms. For the first time in history, we have a world of information and self-degrading comparisons readily available. Factors such as the sexualization of our youth and the need for approval contributes to an unhealthy expectations of ourselves and others.

“Problematic Facebook use was found to be significantly associated with lower levels of overall well-being, suggesting that such use may detract from individuals’ satisfaction with life and happiness”
(Marino, C., Gini, G., Vieno, A., & Spada, M., 2018, p. 276).

This research is just one of many studies examining the impact of social media on our mental health. We can improve our approach to this issue by emulating the great figures from our history.

Let me assure you, there are tangible steps you can take to adopt some of Caesar’s mindset into your own life, while leaving out his detrimental traits.

The Main Point: The Mind of Caeser and The Mind of the Average

Caeser grew up impoverished and not influential. He was in a disadvantages state in comparison to other politicians at that time. However, he had ambition and a clear vision to see himself in a position of power.

Ambition

Caesar was known for his ambition and political shrewdness, which allowed him to rise to the position of dictator perpetuus, or dictator for life. His determination, clear thinking, and ability to plan ahead were crucial in his slow but inexorable rise to power
Yorston & de Leon, 2023

Ambition, planning, and determination can help a person overcome a multitude of mental weaknesses. These deficiencies can lead to a lack of clarity about what you want in your life. Caesar, though in an unethical way, sought power. We can learn from him that we should desire something profoundly, be determined, create a plan, and not be afraid to be seen as ambitious or idealist, regardless of the grandeur of the plan. Be above average.

Leadership

Caesar’s leadership style involved direct engagement with the common people, winning their support through his public speaking skills and populist measures. His ability to connect with the masses and manipulate public opinion was a key element of his rule
Goldsworthy, A. (2006). Caesar: Life of a Colossus

Caesar was driven by greedy intentions in his quest for power. Despite differing goals, his leadership style can be beneficial for us to emulate. He was personable and could connect with people who were growing distrustful of the ruling elite. Today, leaders who adopt this style are known as populists. In our personal lives, we must strive to empathize with the sufferings of others. In this way, we in turn can be listened to. Followers speak, Leaders listen.

Polymath

Intellectual and Writer: Caesar was also an intellectual and a prolific writer, contributing significantly to Latin literature. His “Commentaries on the Gallic War” are not only valuable historical documents but also showcase his clarity of thought, concise expression, and the ability to present complex military campaigns in an understandable manner. His writings reflect a mind that was analytical, reflective, and constantly engaged with the world of ideas
Grillo & Krebs, 2017

The example above goes without explanation. Caesar was conducting a mass genocide of the Gallic people. Yet for intellection observation, we see a person using his ability and interest in military strategy, writing, literature, and overall learning to garner more support from his people. These comments were typically sent to the commoners in Rome to be read at the squares. We too must be able to take our interest, excel in our understanding, and clearly teach what we learned. In this way, we become an invaluable asset that improves mental self-image.

How Can We Be like Cesar

Instead of explaining how to emulate Cesar, which I’ve already done above, I’ll now give a clear action item list.

Emulate Caesar’s leadership style of direct engagement and public speaking
Strive to empathize with the sufferings of others
Cultivate personal interests, excel in understanding, and clearly communicate learnings

To put this into practice, start by honing your public speaking skills. Practice speaking in front of a camera, your friends, family, coworkers, or your class. Express your ideas and strive to articulate them clearly. And how can you improve articulation? By writing. So keep speaking and writing to enhance your communication skills. However:

We have two ears and one mouth so that we can listen twice as much as we speak
Epictetus

To be an effective speaker and engaged leader, whether among friends or a nation, active and attentive listening is crucial. You practice this by paying close attention to every single word that the person speaks. Show interest in the one in front of you.

The amazing thing about doing this is that in your quest to show interest and listening, you can garner the respect needed to fulfill all other positive characteristics

Leaders and Innovators Examples

Case Study 1: Elon Musk – Ambition and Vision – Embrace ambitious goals that extend beyond personal gain and commit to them irrespective of the challenges that come your way
Case Study 2: Jacinda Ardern – Empathetic Leadership – Empathy is a powerful leadership tool. Leaders who show genuine understanding and care towards their people can inspire trust and loyalty.
Case Study 3: Leonardo da Vinci – Intellectual and Polymath – Cultivate a broad range of interests and never stop learning. The ability to combine insights from different fields can lead to innovative solutions and a richer understanding of the world.

Conclusion:

The main takeaway is to learn from the strengths of these historical and contemporary figures. Embrace ambition, engage with people genuinely, cultivate diverse interests, and never stop learning.

Now, it’s your turn. Reflect on these lessons, apply them in your life, and see how they can drive personal growth. Feel free to comment with your thoughts, share this post with others, and let’s continue the conversation.

Take these actions to Heart:

Action
Practice public speaking in front of a camera, friends, or a class.
Journaling and writing, such as blogging
Practice active and attentive listening.
Cultivate personal interests and strive for excellence in understanding them.
Learn to communicate your learnings clearly.
Embrace ambitious goals that extend beyond personal gain.
Show genuine understanding and care towards others to inspire trust and loyalty.
Cultivate a broad range of interests and never stop learning.
Reflect on these lessons and try applying them in your life.

The Growth Times