1
Temperance
Eat not to dullness. Drink not to elevation.
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The 13 Virtues of
Benjamin Franklin
In 1726, at age 20, Benjamin Franklin created a system to develop his character. Nearly 300 years later, his method remains the foundation of modern self-improvement.
“I wished to live without committing any fault at any time; I would conquer all that either natural inclination, custom, or company might lead me into.”
— Benjamin Franklin, Autobiography
The Complete List
Franklin focused on one virtue per week, cycling through all thirteen in a course of about three months. He would mark his faults each day, striving for a clean record.
2
Silence
Speak not but what may benefit others or yourself. Avoid trifling conversation.
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3
Order
Let all your things have their places. Let each part of your business have its time.
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4
Resolution
Resolve to perform what you ought. Perform without fail what you resolve.
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5
Frugality
Make no expense but to do good to others or yourself: i.e. waste nothing.
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6
Industry
Lose no time. Be always employed in something useful. Cut off all unnecessary actions.
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7
Sincerity
Use no hurtful deceit. Think innocently and justly; and, if you speak, speak accordingly.
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8
Justice
Wrong none, by doing injuries or omitting the benefits that are your duty.
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9
Moderation
Avoid extremes. Forbear resenting injuries so much as you think they deserve.
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10
Cleanliness
Tolerate no uncleanliness in body, clothes or habitation.
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11
Tranquility
Be not disturbed at trifles, or at accidents common or unavoidable.
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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.
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13
Humility
Imitate Jesus and Socrates.
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Ready to practice Franklin's system? Track your progress daily with morning and evening reflections.
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