Five Essential Life Lessons from Benjamin Franklin
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Chapter 1: The Wisdom of Ben Franklin
My fascination with Benjamin Franklin began a few years back, coinciding with a significant birthday milestone. As I approached this new chapter, I found myself seeking guidance. Like many Americans, I thought I knew Franklin—a founding father, a pioneer in electrical experiments, and a charming figure. However, I soon realized my understanding was superficial. Franklin was far more insightful, humorous, and complex than I initially perceived.
His wisdom remains remarkably relevant today, offering essential insights into topics such as aging, altruism, and conflict resolution. Although he wasn't without flaws, I believe that if we embraced Franklin's teachings, our world could be a happier place. This conviction is explored in detail in my upcoming book, Ben & Me. Here are five invaluable life lessons inspired by Franklin.
Section 1.1: Frame Your Day with Purpose
From his early days as a printer's apprentice, Franklin began and ended each day with two crucial questions. Each morning, he would ask himself, "What good shall I accomplish today?" and in the evening, he would reflect, "What good have I done today?" These straightforward inquiries are rarely considered, yet they have the power to influence our lives profoundly.
We often express a desire to lead meaningful lives, yet we complain about feeling exploited by others. Franklin suggests that being relied upon can be a compliment rather than a flaw. Instead of shunning these interactions, we might embrace them. He emphasized action over intention, focusing on tangible results. Could adopting this mindset enhance our own lives?
Section 1.2: Embrace Your Roles
The concept of authenticity is frequently touted as the ultimate goal in life. We're encouraged to discover our "true selves," as if it were lost somewhere. However, Franklin’s approach was different; he operated under various pseudonyms and often published anonymously. This strategy allowed him to gain support for his initiatives before revealing his identity.
Franklin exemplified what philosopher Alan Watts termed a "genuine fake." Genuine fakes are not frauds; they immerse themselves so fully in their roles that the distinction between persona and individual blurs. The key is not the masks we wear but how well they fit and the purpose they serve.
Section 1.3: Mastering Anger
Anger is a universal emotion, and Franklin experienced it like anyone else. However, he chose to manage his anger rather than let it dictate his actions. He understood that unchecked anger could undermine his persuasive abilities. One method he employed was the "placebo letter," where he would write an angry letter but wait a day before sending it. Often, he would either discard it or send a calmer version.
By mastering his anger, Franklin expanded his ability to engage with others, even political opponents, without fear of conflict. He recognized that the capacity to tolerate anger without acting on it allows for greater opportunities and connections.
Chapter 2: Shifting Perspectives
Video 1: 12 Money & Life Lessons From Benjamin Franklin
This video explores various life lessons that can be gleaned from Franklin's experiences and wisdom, emphasizing practical insights for modern living.
Video 2: Benjamin Franklin's Life Lessons Men Should Learn As Soon As Possible
In this presentation, key principles from Franklin's life are discussed, focusing on lessons that everyone can apply to improve their lives.
Section 2.1: Reverse the Power Dynamics
During his time as a clerk for the Pennsylvania Assembly, Franklin encountered a powerful member who threatened to complicate his life. Instead of yielding to intimidation, he borrowed a rare book from this individual, returned it with a note, and developed a friendship. This experience taught Franklin a valuable lesson: to foster relationships, sometimes it’s more effective to ask for favors rather than merely offering them.
Counterintuitively, people tend to like those for whom they do favors, rather than those who do favors for them. This phenomenon can be attributed to cognitive dissonance—when we do something for someone, we may subconsciously alter our feelings about them.
Section 2.2: The Power of Humor
When the delegates of the Second Continental Congress considered Franklin for drafting the Declaration of Independence, they hesitated, fearing he might inject humor into such a serious document. This concern wasn't unfounded; Franklin often used humor to make heavy topics more palatable and to engage the public.
He recognized that humor serves multiple purposes: it can ease tension, smooth over conflicts, and make serious conversations more approachable. Franklin knew that laughter has a unique way of bringing people together, reminding us of the importance of lightness even in serious matters.