Benjamin Franklin

1706 - 1790

Wealth is not his that has it, but his that enjoys it.

The 13 Virtues of Benjamin Franklin:

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

Plough deep while sluggards sleep.

Never leave that till to-morrow which you can do to-day.

Little strokes fell great oaks.

He that goes a borrowing goes a sorrowing.

There never was a good war or a bad peace.

There are three things extremely hard: steel, a diamond, and to know one’s self.

If a man could have half his wishes, he would double his troubles.
The heart of a fool is in his mouth, but the mouth of a wise man is in his heart.

He that won’t be counseled can’t be helped.

Drive thy business, or it will drive thee.

Well done is better than well said.

An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest.

Diligence is the mother of good luck.

All mankind is divided into three classes: those who are immovable; those who are movable; and those who move.

Energy and persistence conquer all things.

Would you persuade, speak of interest, not of reason.

When the well’s dry, we know the worth of water.

In short, the way to wealth, if you desire it, depends chiefly on two words, industry and frugality; that is, waste neither time nor money, but make the best use of both.

The noblest question in the world is, ‘What good may I do in it?’

Recommended Readings:
Poor Richard’s Almanac, (numerous writings),
1732 - 1758
The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin, 1788

Recommended Resources:
The Franklin Institute Science Museum