Aristotle wrote about 10 virtues for a good life and happiness 2,300 years ago. Remarkably it is still relevant today. Why is it worth reading?

Research indicates 95% of what we read was written in the past 3 days. Most of it is irrelevant 48 hours later.

Over the last two years alone 90% of the data and collective knowledge of entire humanity was created. We are generating a mind-boggling amount of content every day.

90% of online content could be generated by Generative AI by 2025. Chat GPT in essence re-cycles what was created in the past, it is circular.

Humanity is at risk of losing original thinking.

I make it a point to read what was written long ago.


As Aristotle wrote in his Nicomachean Ethics,

“If it is better to be happy as a result of one’s own exertions than by the gift of fortune, it is reasonable to suppose that this is how happiness is won.”

To live well, we should practice specific virtues and make them into habits.

Here are 10 of the virtues he recommends—which, as modern research shows, do generally attract the good spirit.

1. Name your fears and face them.

2. Know your appetites and control them.

3. Be neither a cheapskate nor a spendthrift.

4. Give as generously as you can.

5. Focus more on the transcendent; disregard the trivial.

6. True strength is a controlled temper.

7. Never lie, especially to yourself.

8. Stop struggling for your fair share.

9. Forgive others, and forbear their weaknesses.

10. Define your morality; live up to it, even in private.

What do you think?

Note: Views are personal and certainly not investment advice.

Credit:
I learned about Aristotle's 10 virtues of happiness from Arthur C. Brooks-  Professor of the Practice of Public and Nonprofit Leadership at the Harvard Kennedy School and Professor of Management Practice at the Harvard Business School, where he teaches courses on leadership and happiness.

Learn, and laugh every day.

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