Marcus outlines two foundational practices for philosophical living. First, maintaining inner tranquility regardless of external circumstances - not through denial or avoidance, but through proper understanding of what we can and cannot control. This untroubled spirit isn't emotional numbness but rather emotional stability rooted in wisdom. Second, seeing reality clearly without wishful thinking, denial, or distortion. Many problems stem from misunderstanding situations, avoiding uncomfortable truths, or seeing things as we wish they were rather than as they are. Together, these practices create a foundation for effective action: inner peace provides stability and clear thinking, while accurate perception ensures our responses are appropriate to actual rather than imagined circumstances.