Benjamin Franklin’s Temperance: The First Step to Success

If Benjamin Franklin were alive today, he’d probably have an energy drink in one hand, a smartwatch tracking his steps, and a self-improvement podcast streaming in his ears. Why? Because the man was the original self-help guru, a founding father of personal development before it was cool. One of his most famous principles—temperance—is just as relevant today as it was in the 18th century.

Franklin’s definition of temperance was simple but profound: “Eat not to dullness; drink not to elevation.” In other words, don’t let food slow you down, and don’t let alcohol take you out of the game. It’s advice that applies not just to what we consume but also to how we live—moderation in all things.

So, what can we learn from Franklin’s first virtue, and how can it set us on a path toward success, discipline, and a sharper mind? Let’s break it down.

Why Temperance is a Superpower

In today’s world of all-you-can-eat buffets, happy hours, and Netflix binges, self-control feels like an outdated virtue. But Franklin was onto something: mastering our appetites can help us master our lives.

Think about it—when we overeat, we feel sluggish. When we overdrink, we make questionable decisions (like texting an ex or buying an expensive piece of exercise equipment we’ll never use). Franklin knew that success starts with self-discipline. If you can control what you put in your body, you can control your thoughts, habits, and ultimately, your destiny.

The Modern Application of Franklin’s Temperance

You don’t have to live like a monk to practice temperance, but bringing a little Franklin-inspired moderation into your daily routine can transform your productivity, mental clarity, and even your waistline.

Here’s how you can apply this principle in today’s fast-paced, temptation-filled world:

1. Eat to Fuel, Not to Crash
   Ever eaten a huge meal and immediately regretted it? Food should give us energy, not put us into a food coma. Try eating balanced, portioned meals that nourish your body rather than drain it. Franklin didn’t have access to fast food, but you can bet he’d be shaking his head at our drive-thru culture.

2. Drink with a Clear Purpose
   Franklin wasn’t against drinking—he was against drinking to excess. A glass of wine over dinner? Fine. A bottle of whiskey on a Tuesday night because you had a stressful Zoom meeting? Probably not Franklin-approved. When alcohol is consumed in moderation, it enhances life rather than controls it.

3. Moderation in Media Consumption
   Let’s face it—if Franklin had a smartphone, he’d be the guy who wrote daily tweets of wisdom, not the one doom-scrolling at 2 AM. Just as too much food or drink dulls the mind, too much media can numb us. Set limits on screen time, and be intentional about what you consume.

4. Balance Work and Rest
   Franklin was an insanely productive man, but he also understood the importance of rest. Overworking leads to burnout, while too much leisure leads to laziness. A well-balanced schedule—where work, rest, and recreation each have their place—creates long-term success.

The Link Between Temperance and Success

Every high achiever throughout history has had one thing in common: self-control. Whether it’s in business, sports, or personal development, those who master their impulses have a serious edge over those who don’t.

When you’re in control of your habits, you:

• Make better financial decisions (goodbye, impulse Amazon shopping at midnight).
• Improve your health (more energy, fewer sugar crashes).
• Enhance your relationships (nobody enjoys being around someone who can’t say no to excess).
• Build mental resilience (discipline in small areas leads to discipline in big areas).

Franklin understood that small habits create big results. If you want to sharpen your focus, increase your energy, and achieve your goals, temperance is the starting line.

A Dose of Humor (Because Franklin Would Approve)

Picture Franklin walking into an all-you-can-eat buffet. He surveys the scene—the unlimited crab legs, the overflowing chocolate fountain—and then calmly takes a reasonable portion, savoring each bite. Meanwhile, across the room, someone is stacking their plate like they’re building a Jenga tower of mashed potatoes and regret.

Who leaves feeling better? Franklin, of course. He gets up, energized and ready to write an almanac. The other guy? He’s heading for a nap he didn’t plan.

Finding Your Own Moral Compass

Temperance isn’t just about food and drink—it’s about self-mastery. It’s about knowing when to say “enough” and when to push forward. That’s why I explore the concept of balance and discipline in my book Moral Compass. If you want a roadmap to making wise decisions in all areas of life, from work to relationships to personal growth, you’ll find practical insights that help you stay on track—without veering into the extremes of indulgence or deprivation.

Conclusion: Small Changes, Big Results

Benjamin Franklin’s first virtue wasn’t about deprivation—it was about freedom. When we practice temperance, we’re not restricting ourselves—we’re empowering ourselves to make intentional choices that lead to a sharper mind, stronger body, and more successful life.

So, the next time you reach for that second (or third) slice of cake or that extra cocktail, pause for a moment and ask yourself: Would Franklin approve?

And if the answer is “probably not,” well—maybe just take half.