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Many individuals express their desire for happiness and invest significant time and resources in the pursuit of well-being. They search relentlessly for the secrets to finding this elusive state, much like miners searching for gold. However, some wise thinkers throughout history have argued that this approach is flawed. They believe that happiness cannot be found; instead, it must be attracted.
One of the most well-known advocates of this alternative perspective is the ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle. He defined happiness as eudaemonia, which translates to “good spirit.” To modern ears, this might sound intangible, reminiscent of superficial feelings that people mistakenly chase after. However, Aristotle intended to convey that happiness is a divine state that will come to each individual on its own accord. Our only responsibility is to be open to it, which we can achieve by living virtuously.
Living virtuously involves practicing specific virtues until they become ingrained habits. As Aristotle wrote in his work Nicomachean Ethics, “If it is better to attain happiness through our own efforts rather than through fortune’s gift, then it is reasonable to assume that this is how happiness is truly obtained.” Here are ten virtues recommended by Aristotle, which modern research has shown to generally attract happiness.
1. Courage: Aristotle discussed courage in the context of sacrificing one’s life, such as in war. While it is uncertain how he would view courage in our modern circumstances, the question remains whether acting bravely in the face of fear invites happiness. Research suggests that it does, as courage leads to resilience after adversity, ultimately resulting in greater happiness.
2. Temperance: This virtue refers to self-control in the face of our base desires and impulses. Aristotle would likely view the “If it feels good, do it!” mentality as a recipe for misery. Modern researchers support this stance, finding that as impulse control increases, positive emotions initially decline. However, as self-control continues to strengthen, negative feelings decrease, and happiness reaches its peak when self-control is at its highest.
3. Liberality: Contrary to modern political connotations, Aristotle used this term to discuss one’s approach to money. He advocated for avoiding stinginess while also cautioning against excessive spending. In fact, evidence suggests that being overly frugal negatively influences well-being. For example, a study conducted in 2014 found that physical stress levels rose when participants were offered a split of money lower than 40 percent in an ultimatum-bargaining game.
4. Magnificence: Linked to liberality, magnificence entails investing resources, not for personal gain but for projects that benefit a large number of people. One might consider this as philanthropy on a grand scale. Research unequivocally supports the idea that giving feels good.
5. Greatness of soul: Aristotle described a great-souled individual as someone who prioritizes what is meaningful and profound in life over transient pleasures and irritations. Studies comparing the pursuit of pleasure versus the pursuit of meaning have found that the latter leads to greater happiness. So, instead of spending excessive time on social media, Engaging with deep and thoughtful content can contribute to a happier life.
6. Gentleness: This virtue revolves around kindness and the ability to control one’s temper. Possessing self-possession in this manner is believed to bring happiness. Conversely, aggression, the opposite of gentleness, makes it challenging to manage one’s emotions, thus diminishing well-being.
7. Truthfulness about oneself: Honesty is highly valued by Aristotle, who advises against exaggeration, boastfulness, or self-deprecation. He suggests seeking secure humility, in which we accurately recognize ourselves and can represent ourselves to others without arrogance or self-denial. This aligns with research on humility, which correlates with lower levels of neuroticism and depression, as well as a greater appreciation for life.
8. Equity: While the modern understanding of equity centers around fairness and combating past discrimination, Aristotle’s perspective differs. He describes the equitable individual as one who does not insist excessively on their rights, even if the law is on their side. This unique aspect of justice is not supported by specific empirical evidence but is likely related to the next virtue.
9. Forgiveness: In Aristotle’s view, consideration for others involves forgiveness and forbearance towards their faults. Modern literature extensively supports the wisdom of forgiveness, as practicing it purposefully and letting go of grievances reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety.
10. Modesty: Aristotelian modesty, distinct from humility, involves refraining from shameful behavior, even in private. It requires abstinence from vices, and for an action to be considered vice, one must view it as immoral. Acting in moral accordance leads to increased happiness and a heightened sense of purpose, while immoral acts result in the opposite.
Although Aristotle proposed these happiness virtues over two thousand years ago, they remain applicable today as a guide for leading a fulfilling life. Consider printing out this abbreviated list and placing it somewhere visible to serve as a daily reminder of your commitment to living virtuously.
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