Motivation on the Run

Reading the 13 virtues, that Benjamin Franklin worked on his entire life, left me feeling like a slacker. Franklin spent his life working on his personal improvement and witnessed the difference it made in his life.

Not only was he a great example of a leader, he was a great example for we that seek to better ourselves. Philippians 4:8 is a verse that always requires me to re-evaluate how I spend my time. Click over and read the entire page and you will be encouraged to take it to the next level.

Benjamin Franklin

You probably know him as one of the Fathers of the United States, a great leader and diplomat. He signed the major documents of the founding of the U.S. including the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. Maybe you know him as an inventor, or as a scientist who flew kites in lightning storms, or as a writer and printing press operator.

But did you know that in 1726, at the age of 20, while on an 80-day ocean voyage from London back to Philadelphia, he developed a “Plan” for regulating his future conduct? He was partially motivated by Philippians 4:8 “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable–if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things.”

His “Plan” was made up of 13 virtues, each with short descriptions:

1. Temperance
2. Silence
3. Order
4. Resolution
5. Frugality
6. Industry
7. Sincerity
8. Justice
9. Moderation
10. Cleanliness
11. Chastity
12. Tranquility
13. Humility

He committed to giving strict attention to one virtue each week so after 13 weeks he moved through all 13. After 13 weeks he would start the process over again so in one year he would complete the course a total of 4 times.

Thanks to Lifehacker for the link

[tags]Benamin Franklin, 13 virtues, Philippians 4:8[/tags]