Benjamin Franklin s method of habit formation
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Self Improvement -> subcategory Motivation.
Benjamin Franklin’s Method of Habit Formation
Introduction
Could Benjamin Franklin be the inventor of the daily planner? Regardless, there’s much to learn from this remarkable American figure.
Overview
Benjamin Franklin, known for his roles as an inventor, statesman, writer, publisher, and economist, shared in his autobiography that he embarked on a journey to achieve moral perfection early in life. He devised a list of 13 virtues, dedicating a page to each and providing a detailed description for clarity. He then practiced each virtue for a set period.
To turn these virtues into habits, Franklin created a unique self-assessment method. In a journal, he crafted a table with rows for each virtue and columns for each day of the week. Whenever he strayed from a virtue, he marked the corresponding column. Each week, he concentrated on a different virtue, aiming for the ultimate satisfaction of seeing a "clean Book."
He pursued this self-evaluation for years, giving each virtue focused attention. Franklin began with temperance, which involved moderating every pleasure or potential bad habit. He believed that temperance ensured the clear-headedness needed to resist old habits and constant temptations.
The Virtues
Franklin’s virtues included silence, order, resolution, frugality, industry, sincerity, justice, moderation, cleanliness, tranquility, chastity, and humility. He structured his days with a meticulous schedule:
- 5 to 7 AM: Personal care, prayer, planning the day, studying, and breakfast.
- 8 AM to 12 PM: Work at his trade.
- 12 to 1 PM: Reading or reviewing accounts and dining.
- 2 to 5 PM: More work.
- Evenings until 10 PM: Music and leisure activities.
Before bed, he would review the day’s achievements. At 79, Franklin credited his health to temperance, his fortune to industry and frugality, and his country’s trust to sincerity and justice.
Conclusion
Franklin’s remarkable success in life and politics is a testament to his relentless pursuit of self-improvement and his ability to overcome personal challenges. When striving for your own goals, consider keeping a personal journal. Identify the temptations blocking your path to greatness and think about how you can cultivate successful habits.
What steps will you take to form the habits that lead to success?
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