101 Virtues to apply to your life, Number Eighty-seven

 101 Virtues to apply to your life, Number Eighty-seven

 

Let’s explore the book of virtues that George Washington copied at 14 and followed throughout his life. These virtues are based on Aristotle's writings but have been enhanced over the centuries. We can translate them into modern language and find practical ways to apply them.

 

Number Eighty-seven

In disputes, be not so desirous to overcome as not to give liberty to each one to deliver his opinion and submit to the judgment of the major part, especially if they are judges of the dispute.

 

 

This virtue emphasizes humility, open-mindedness, and respect for others' perspectives in disagreements. It advises against being overly focused on winning an argument. Instead, it encourages everyone to share their views freely while accepting the majority's decision, especially when impartial judges are involved.

 

Modern Expression

In conflicts, prioritize understanding and collaboration over dominating the conversation. Listen to others’ opinions, value their input, and be willing to accept a fair consensus or ruling.

 

Practical Application

In Meetings or Discussions

 When debating ideas at work, let colleagues express their thoughts without interruption. If a team vote or a manager’s decision settles the matter, accept it gracefully, even if you disagree.

 

Online Debates

Social media platforms engage in discussions by asking questions and acknowledging others’ points, rather than trying to "win" the argument. If moderators or community consensus lean a certain way, respect the outcome.

 

Personal Conflicts 

family or friend disputes, hear everyone out without insisting on your way. Consider it seriously if a neutral third party (e.g., a mediator or counselor) offers a resolution.

 

Legal or Formal Disputes

In court or arbitration, present your case but respect the process and the final judgment, trusting the system’s fairness.

 

This approach fosters constructive dialogue, reduces hostility, and builds trust in group decisions.

101 Virtues to apply to your life, Number Eighty-six

 101 Virtues to apply to your life, Number Eighty-six

 

Let’s explore the book of virtues that George Washington copied at 14 and followed throughout his life. These virtues are based on Aristotle's writings but have been enhanced over the centuries. We can translate them into modern language and find practical ways to apply them.

 

Number Eighty-six

 

In the company of those of higher quality than yourself, speak not til you are asked a question, then stand upright, take off your hat, & answer in a few words.

 

This virtue emphasizes humility, respect, and restraint in the presence of those with greater wisdom, experience, or status. Modern terms suggest listening more than speaking, showing deference, and responding thoughtfully when invited to contribute.

 

Practical application today

In professional settings

 When meeting with senior colleagues or experts, prioritize listening to understand their perspectives. Speak only when asked or when you have a concise, valuable contribution. For example, a junior employee might wait for a manager to solicit input before sharing ideas, ensuring their response is brief and relevant.

 

In social or intellectual gatherings

Avoid dominating the conversation if you're with people more knowledgeable on a topic (e.g., at a conference or discussion group). Show respect by engaging attentively, asking thoughtful questions, and keeping responses succinct to honor their expertise.

 

Body language and demeanor

 Stand or sit attentively, maintain eye contact, and avoid distractions (like checking your phone). This shows respect and openness, akin to "standing upright" and "taking off your hat."

 

Online interactions

Avoid flooding chats or interrupting on social media or virtual meetings. Wait for an appropriate moment to contribute meaningfully, keeping comments focused and respectful.

 

By practicing this, you cultivate humility, build trust, and create space for learning from those with greater insight.

 

101 Virtues to apply to your life, Number Eighty-five

 101 Virtues to apply to your life, Number Eighty-five

 

Let’s explore the book of virtues that George Washington copied at 14 and followed throughout his life. These virtues are based on Aristotle's writings but have been enhanced over the centuries. We can translate them into modern language and find practical ways to apply them.

 

Number Eighty-five

When you deliver a matter, do it without passion and with discretion. However mean the person may be, you do it, too.

The virtue described—delivering a matter without passion and with discretion, even to someone unkind—translates to practicing impartiality, professionalism, and tact in modern terms. It’s about communicating or acting with fairness, restraint, and respect, regardless of personal feelings or the other person’s behavior.

 

What it signifies today

This virtue emphasizes emotional discipline and fairness. It’s about staying calm, objective, and respectful in interactions, especially in challenging situations. It reflects integrity and the ability to prioritize duty or truth over personal biases or emotions. In a contemporary context, it’s akin to maintaining professionalism in workplaces, customer service, or online interactions, where you treat everyone equitably, even if they’re difficult or hostile.

 

Practical applications

 

Workplace Communication

 Stay neutral and factual when giving feedback or addressing a conflict. For example, if a colleague is rude, respond calmly with clear, professional language instead of reacting emotionally.

 

Customer Service

Treat all customers with respect, even if they’re upset or unreasonable. For instance, a restaurant server might politely address a complaining customer without letting frustration show.

 

Online Interactions

 On social media, respond to provocative comments with measured, respectful replies—or choose not to engage—rather than escalating with heated arguments.

 

Leadership

Managers can apply this by making decisions based on fairness, not favoritism or personal dislike, ensuring all team members are treated equitably.

 

Everyday Life

When dealing with a difficult neighbor or family member, communicate your needs or boundaries calmly and respectfully, without letting their attitude dictate your tone.

 

By practicing this virtue, you maintain dignity, foster constructive dialogue, and uphold fairness, even in challenging situations. It’s about rising above personal feelings to act with grace and integrity.

101 Virtues to apply to your life, Number Eighty-four

 101 Virtues to apply to your life, Number Eighty-four

 

Let’s explore the book of virtues that George Washington copied at 14 and followed throughout his life. These virtues are based on Aristotle's writings but have been enhanced over the centuries. We can translate them into modern language and find practical ways to apply them.

 

Number Eighty-four

Undertake not what you cannot perform but be careful to keep your promise.

 

This virtue emphasizes making commitments you can realistically fulfill and honoring your word. In modern terms, it’s about being reliable and accountable.

 

This means that you must agree to tasks or promises you have the capacity, skills, or resources to complete, and once committed, follow through consistently. It’s about integrity—avoiding overpromising and underdelivering.

 

Practical Application

Assess Capabilities Honestly

 Evaluate your time, skills, and resources before agreeing to a work project, favor, or personal goal. For example, don’t commit to a tight deadline if your schedule is already packed.

 

Communicate Clearly

If you can’t take on a task, say so upfront politely (e.g., “I’d love to help, but I’m stretched thin this week”). Offer alternatives if possible.

 

Prioritize Follow-Through

If you promise to deliver a report by Friday or meet a friend for coffee, make it happen or communicate early if something changes.

 

Use Tools for Accountability

Leverage calendars, reminders, or project management apps (like Trello or Notion) to track commitments and stay organized.

 

Build Trust

Consistently keeping promises, even small ones, strengthens relationships, whether showing up on time for meetings or delivering on a client’s expectations.

 

By practicing this, you cultivate trust and respect in personal and professional settings, aligning actions with words in a world where reliability stands out.

101 Virtues to apply to your life, Number Eighty-three

Let’s explore the book of virtues that George Washington copied at 14 and followed throughout his life. These virtues are based on Aristotle's writings but have been enhanced over the centuries. We can translate them into modern language and find practical ways to apply them.

 

Number Eighty-three

Be not curious to know the affairs of others, nor approach those who speak in private.

This virtue emphasizes respecting others' privacy and avoiding unnecessary curiosity about their matters. In modern terms, it means not prying into private conversations, gossip, or sensitive information that doesn't concern you.

 

Practical applications today

Digital Boundaries

Avoid snooping on private messages, emails, or social media accounts without permission.

 

Steer Clear of Gossip

Refrain from engaging in or spreading rumors about colleagues, friends, or acquaintances.

 

Mind Your Curiosity

If you overhear a private conversation or see a sensitive document, don’t probe further unless invited.

 

Set an Example

Show discretion in your affairs, encouraging others to respect privacy by modeling it yourself.

 

Use Tech Wisely

Don’t share or seek out leaked private information online, like hacked emails or personal data.

 

This fosters trust, maintains healthy relationships, and aligns with ethical behavior in a hyper-connected world.

101 Virtues to apply to your life, Number Eighty-two

 101 Virtues to apply to your life, Number Eighty-two

 

Let’s explore the book of virtues that George Washington copied at 14 and followed throughout his life. These virtues are based on Aristotle's writings but have been enhanced over the centuries. We can translate them into modern language and find practical ways to apply them.

 

Number Eighty-two

When you deliver a matter, do it without passion and with discretion. However mean the person may be, you do it, too.

 

The quote emphasizes delivering criticism or addressing issues calmly, tactfully, and impartially, regardless of the person's character. In modern terms, this virtue is about professionalism and emotional intelligence, handling difficult conversations with composure and fairness.

 

Practical application today

Workplace Feedback

When giving constructive criticism to a colleague, focus on the issue, not the person. Use neutral language, e.g., "The report could benefit from more data" instead of "You didn’t do enough research."

 

Conflict Resolution

 Stay calm and objective during disputes, even if the other person is hostile. Listen actively and respond thoughtfully to de-escalate.

 

Social Media Interactions

Respond to negativity or trolling with restraint, avoiding emotional outbursts. A measured reply or choosing to disengage reflects this virtue.

 

Customer Service

 Deal with rude clients patiently, addressing their concerns politely without taking it personally.

 

This approach fosters respect, maintains professionalism, and prevents escalation, regardless of the other person's behavior.

101 Virtues to apply to your life, Number Eighty-one

 101 Virtues to apply to your life, Number Eighty-one

 

Let’s explore the book of virtues that George Washington copied at 14 and followed throughout his life. These virtues are based on Aristotle's writings but have been enhanced over the centuries. We can translate them into modern language and find practical ways to apply them.

 

Number Eighty-one

Be not Tedious in Discourse or in reading unless you find the Company pleased therewith.

 

In modern terms, this virtue means: Don't bore people with long-winded talk or excessive reading unless they're clearly into it. It emphasizes being concise, engaging, and aware of your audience's interest.

 

Practical application today

In conversations

 Keep your points brief and relevant. Pay attention to body language or verbal cues; if someone seems distracted or disengaged, wrap it up or shift topics.

 

In meetings or presentations

 Stick to key points, avoid overloading with details, and use visuals or interactivity to maintain attention. Ask for feedback to gauge interest.

 

On social media or writing

 Share content that's to the point and tailored to your audience. Long posts or emails? Summarize upfront or break them into digestible parts.

 

When reading aloud or sharing content 

Check if your audience is still with you. If they're not, pause or switch to discussion.

 

Being mindful of others' engagement keeps communication effective and respectful.

101 Virtues to apply to your life, Number Eighty

Let’s explore the book of virtues that George Washington copied at 14 and followed throughout his life. These virtues are based on Aristotle's writings but have been enhanced over the centuries. We can translate them into modern language and find practical ways to apply them.

 

Number Eighty

 Be not apt to relate to news if you do not know the truth thereof. In discoursing of things you have heard named not your author always a secret discover not

 

This virtue advises caution in sharing unverified information and discretion in revealing sources. In modern terms, it means avoiding the spread of rumors or unconfirmed news and keeping confidences when discussing things you've heard.

 

Practical application today

Verify before sharing

Check the credibility of information (e.g., cross-reference news with reputable sources or fact-checking sites) before posting on social media or discussing it.

 

Respect privacy

 If someone shares something with you confidently, don’t name them or reveal details that could expose them, especially in the workplace or personal conversations.

 

Pause and reflect

 Consider the truthfulness and potential impact of a sensational story or gossip before sharing it. For example, avoid forwarding unverified claims in group chats or emails.

 

Use discretion online

 On social media, refrain from quoting or tagging sources unless necessary, and be mindful of amplifying unconfirmed posts.

 

This approach fosters trust, reduces misinformation, and promotes responsible communication in today’s fast-paced, digital world.

101 Virtues to apply to your life, Number Seventy-nine

Let’s explore the book of virtues that George Washington copied at 14 and followed throughout his life. These virtues are based on Aristotle's writings but have been enhanced over the centuries. We can translate them into modern language and find practical ways to apply them.

 

Number Seventy-nine

Use no reproachful language against any one neither curse nor revile.

 

This virtue emphasizes speaking respectfully and kindly, avoiding harsh criticism, insults, or abusive language. In modern terms, it’s about practicing civility and empathy in communication, even when you disagree or feel upset.

 

Practical Applications

Online Interactions

Respond thoughtfully instead of lashing out on social media or forums. If someone posts a controversial opinion, engage with questions or constructive feedback rather than name-calling or sarcasm.

 

Workplace Communication

 When giving feedback, focus on the issue, not the person. Instead of saying, “You’re always late,” try, “I’ve noticed some delays, can we find a solution?”

 

Personal Relationships

 Use “I” statements like, “I feel hurt when…” instead of blaming or cursing during arguments. This keeps the conversation productive.

 

Self-Control in Stress

If you’re tempted to snap at someone (e.g., in traffic or a long queue), take a breath and choose neutral or positive words to de-escalate.

 

You foster understanding and maintain dignity in any setting by prioritizing respect and restraint.

101 Virtues to apply to your life, Number Seventy-eight

Let’s explore the book of virtues that George Washington copied at 14 and followed throughout his life. These virtues are based on Aristotle's writings but have been enhanced over the centuries. We can translate them into modern language and find practical ways to apply them.

 

Number Seventy-eight

Make no comparisons, and if any of the companies are commended for any brave act of virtue, commend not another for the same.

 

The virtue described is about giving honest, specific praise without diluting it through comparisons or equating others’ actions to the same deed. In modern terms, it’s about authenticity and integrity in recognizing someone’s unique contribution, acknowledging their courage or goodness on its merit, without relativism or flattery.

 

What it signifies today

 This virtue emphasizes sincerity, fairness, and respect for individual efforts. It’s about celebrating someone’s bold or virtuous act, like standing up for a marginalized colleague or taking a risk to expose wrongdoing, without muddying the moment by saying, “Oh, others did that too.” It fosters trust and genuine appreciation, avoiding the trap of performative or competitive praise.

 

Practical application

In the workplace

When a team member takes a stand, like calling out unethical practices, praise their specific action directly. Say, “Your courage in speaking up about that issue was impactful,” instead of, “That was great, just like how others have spoken up.”

Social settings

 If a friend makes a tough but principled choice, like cutting ties with a toxic influence, affirm their decision with, “I admire how you prioritized your well-being,” without referencing others’ similar choices.

On social media

When highlighting someone’s activism or bravery, focus on their unique story. Share their specific contribution without tagging others or saying, “This is like so-and-so’s work,” to keep the recognition authentic.

In leadership

When rewarding employees or volunteers, tailor commendations to their distinct efforts. Avoid blanket statements like “Everyone’s doing great,” which can feel dismissive to those who went above and beyond.

 

This approach builds a culture of trust, where people feel truly seen for their actions, encouraging more genuine courage and virtue.

101 Virtues to apply to your life, Number Seventy-six

 101 Virtues to apply to your life, Number Seventy-six

Let’s explore the book of virtues that George Washington copied at 14 and followed throughout his life. These virtues are based on Aristotle's writings but have been enhanced over the centuries. We can translate them into modern language and find practical ways to apply them.

Number Seventy-six

While you are talking, point not with your finger at him of whom you discourse nor approach too near him to whom you talk especially to his face.

This virtue advises maintaining respectful physical boundaries and avoiding aggressive gestures during conversation. In modern terms, it means being mindful of personal space and body language to ensure others feel comfortable and respected.

Practical application today

Respect personal space.

Keep a comfortable distance (about an arm's length) when talking to someone, especially in professional or casual settings, to avoid making them feel crowded.

Avoid pointing directly.

Instead of pointing at someone when referring to them, use open gestures like a palm-up hand or nod in their direction to keep the interaction friendly.

Be aware of cultural norms.

Personal space preferences vary across cultures, so adjust your proximity based on the context and the other person's comfort level.

Use non-threatening body language.

Maintain eye contact without staring, and avoid leaning in too closely, especially in heated discussions, to prevent seeming confrontational.

Virtual communication.

Avoid overly animated gestures in video calls that might feel intrusive on screen, and ensure your tone and facial expressions remain respectful.

This approach fosters trust and mutual respect in in-person or online conversations.

101 Virtues to apply to your life, Number Seventy-five

 101 Virtues to apply to your life, Number Seventy-five

Let’s explore the book of virtues that George Washington copied at 14 and followed throughout his life. These virtues are based on Aristotle's writings but have been enhanced over the centuries. We can translate them into modern language and find practical ways to apply them.

Number Seventy-five

In the midst of discourse, ask not of what one treateth, but if you perceive any stop because of your coming, you may well intreat him gently to proceed. If a person of quality comes in while you're conversing, it's handsome to repeat what was said before

This virtue emphasizes courtesy and attentiveness in conversation. In modern terms, it advises respecting the flow of discussion and ensuring inclusivity when new people join.

The virtue is about being polite and considerate in social interactions. It suggests avoiding interruptions, gently encouraging others to continue if they pause, and thoughtfully summarizing prior points for newcomers, especially those of significance, to keep everyone engaged.

Practical Application

Active Listening

In a group chat or meeting, don’t derail the conversation with unrelated questions. If someone hesitates when you join, kindly say, “Please, go on, I’d love to hear more.”

Inclusivity

When someone new enters a discussion (e.g., a colleague joining a meeting or a friend arriving at a gathering), briefly recap key points: “We were just talking about the project timeline, any thoughts?”

Respecting Hierarchy or Context

In professional settings, if a senior team member joins, acknowledge their presence subtly by summarizing the discussion to bring them up to speed without disrupting the flow.

Digital Etiquette

Avoid abrupt topic shifts in online forums or video calls. To include latecomers, use phrases like, “To catch you up, we’re discussing…”

This approach fosters respect, ensures smooth communication, and makes conversations welcoming and collaborative in today’s fast-paced, often digital interactions.