It might seem strange to think that the wisdom of an ancient philosopher like Aristotle could still resonate in our fast-paced, digital age. However, Aristotle’s insights remain profoundly relevant, offering a blueprint for a fulfilling life even in the complexities of the modern world. If Aristotle spoke of 11 rules for living happily, it’s because he believed there is indeed a path to eudaimonia—a term that encapsulates the highest human good, often translated as “flourishing” or “happiness.”
At first glance, it may appear absurd that the thoughts of a man who lived centuries ago could reflect the reality of our rapidly evolving society. However, Aristotle understood the human condition in a way that transcends time. No matter how much trends, mindsets, or expectations change, the pursuit of happiness remains a central concern for humanity. According to Aristotle, there are 11 rules to achieve a happy life. If you follow them consistently, happiness will be yours—and not only that, you’ll also unlock the secret to living the best life possible.
What Is Eudaimonia?
How does one achieve a happy life? What exactly is eudaimonia? According to Aristotle, it’s the concept of a life well-lived, where happiness is not just a fleeting emotion but the result of continuous action directed toward a state of well-being and prosperity. This idea goes beyond physical well-being, encompassing what resides deep within our hearts, minds, and spirits.
In his “Nicomachean Ethics,” Aristotle often pondered the question, “What kind of person should I be?”—a far more profound inquiry than the more common, “What should I do to be happy?” A man of his wisdom could not be content with the average view of happiness. He recognized that true happiness involves focusing one’s resources and energy on self-improvement. This focus not only enriches the individual but also positively impacts the world around them, making life truly fulfilling.
Aristotle, who saw humans as inherently social creatures, dedicated to relationships and communities, faced personal adversity, including the loss of his great student Alexander the Great and subsequent political tensions. Despite these challenges, Aristotle considered himself happy because he adhered to these 11 rules.
Are Aristotle’s Rules for Happiness Effective?
The first question one should ask is whether they truly know what they want to be. In many cases, sadness stems from a lack of self-awareness, leading to an absence of goals and a deep sense of frustration. Human beings are meant to explore both the world and themselves. Without a clear path or understanding of who they might become, they cannot know what to do to achieve happiness.
Eudaimonia, the state of living well and thriving, is achieved through virtue. The person you aspire to be is a virtuous one. Virtues are character traits and tendencies that, when practiced consistently, become excellent habits. Virtuous individuals become role models for themselves and others, contributing to a better society. These virtues are the “golden mean,” golden rules that help one attain the ultimate goal.
There are 11 virtues, just like the 11 rules for eudaimonia.
- The first is Courage—aware of dangers, one fights for their dreams.
- Next is Temperance, which lies between excess and deficiency. For Aristotle, both the man who drinks too much (lacking temperance) and the one who never drinks at all (being overly temperate) are in the wrong. The key is finding the right balance.
- Then there is Liberality—giving more than one has to others, particularly in doing good.
- Magnificence is knowing you are great and striving for the best without showing off.
- Magnanimity involves serving others with kindness without falling prey to pride.
- Patience is about avoiding outbursts of anger—venting is fine, but in the face of adversity, remaining calm and serene helps one handle challenges better.
- Truthfulness—honesty always pays off, even when it seems impossible and could cause trouble. The truth always finds its way back.
- Wittiness and Friendliness go hand in hand, involving the art of social interaction with genuine humor without being vulgar or intrusive.
- Shame is about understanding one’s limits—avoiding becoming either shameless or too timid to act.
- Last, but certainly not least, there is Justice—the ideal that animates everything, guiding one to act justly.
The key is to apply these rules according to the situation and your own moral compass. In doing so, you can aspire to be the person you want to be—virtuous and happy within the society you live in.
Thank you for reading. If you liked this post, please, consider signing up for my blog!
Crisbie Coach 