13 Virtues by Benjamin Franklin

I have read "The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin" few months back, which virtually took longer duration than was expected. It's not just because the language is a old school, but also various obligations that come on my way. The few words that have been commonly repeated in the book is frugality..




There is a chapter in the book that deals with the "13 virtues" which Benjamin Franklin seem to and tried to master.
So  here I am, writing it down. May be my language has created a slight deviation from the original version, still the vibes remain the same.


 13 Virtues of Benjamin Franklin


1. Temperance
Eat not to dullness, Drink not to elevation (Probably he meant the coolness and calmness of head I guess)
2. Silence
Speak not but what may benefit others or yourself, avoid trifling conversation. (Simply put: Speak after thinking and speak that will help others, and avoid conflicts, or foul-mouthing)
3. Order
Let all your things have their places, let each part of your have its time (So that essentially highlights the importance of planning, having time for everything but on the order)
4. Resolution
Resolve to perform what your ought; perform without fail what you resolve. (bottom-line: Go as per you dreams or do something you like and when you do it, give it all your heart)
5. FRUGALITY
Make no expense but to do good to others or yourself i.e. waste nothing. (Simply put: don't waste anything, by that he meant resources I guess)
6. Industry
Lose no time; be always employed in something useful, cut off all unnecessary actions. (How often can we do that, in this era of facebook. Facebook takes at least 2 hours of our day...bad bad bad)
7. Sincerity
Use no hurtful deceit; think innocently and justly, and if you speak, speak accordingly.
8. Justice
Wrong none by doing injuries or omitting the benefits that are your duty. (Do justice to others)
9. Moderation
Avoid extremes, forbear resenting injuries so much as you think you deserve. (Do things the middle way and accept the injuries that comes with it, did I put it right?)
10. Cleanliness
Tolerate no uncleanliness in body, clothes, or habitation. (In light vein: use more hand soap)
11. Tranquility
Be not disturbed at trifles, or at accident common or unavoidable. (So don't keep on checking your facebook for any notifications. Concentrate)
12. Chastity
Rarely use venery but for health or offspring, never to dullness, weakness, or the injury of your own or another's peace or reputation. (Be faithful, and compassionate. Benjamin even spoke of sex, that's kinda not benjamin..)
13. Humility
        (Meaning remaining humble, respectful, and modest in personal qualities)


I guess all the attributes he talked about are "A" grade qualities, what we seem to like to every person. These are the constructive qualities that can help achieve many personal or professional goals we aspire for. It is also agreed upon that the good habits and qualities always bring forth more good.


You decide.