Getting Started with Aristotle’s Virtues
So I was scrolling online last week when somebody mentioned these “four virtues” by some old Greek guy. Sounded fancy but confusing. I grabbed my coffee and thought: “How can I break this down so my brain doesn’t melt?” Decided to use stuff from my own life to figure it out.
The Research Mess
First, I Googled it. Big mistake. Articles used words like “eudaimonia” and “teleological ethics.” Felt like reading alien language. Closed all tabs after five minutes. Then I remembered arguing with my cousin Larry last month over splitting pizza costs. That stupid fight actually helped me get started.
Testing Virtue #1: Practical Wisdom
Larry ate three slices, I had two. He insisted we split the bill 50/50. I almost blew up. Wisdom here wasn’t about winning – it was seeing the fair solution. Next day, I took my kid to buy ice cream. She begged for extra toppings. I paused and asked: “Will this make her sick? Can I afford it?” Said no gently. That’s wisdom – choosing smart over easy.
Testing Virtue #2: Courage Beyond Fights
Always thought courage meant fighting bullies. Nope. Last Thursday, my neighbor parked in my spot again. Normally I’d rage-text him. This time I walked over, knees shaking, and said calmly: “Dude, I need that spot for work.” He apologized! Real courage is doing scary things the right way, not just loud way.
Testing Virtue #3: Self-Control in Real Life
My weakness? Online shopping when bored. After midnight, my cart had $300 worth of junk. Virtue 3 is self-control. Instead of hitting “buy,” I shut the laptop and scrubbed my bathroom tiles. Sounds crazy, but focusing energy on something useful felt way better than regret.
Testing Virtue #4: Fairness Like Sharing Chips
Fourth virtue is justice. Not courtrooms – everyday fairness. Like when my team at work had to share one bonus. Instead of hogging it, I made a simple rule: hours worked x difficulty. Nobody complained. Same as splitting chips at a party – give everyone their fair handful.
Why This Actually Works
These aren’t dusty ideas. They’re tools:
- Wisdom = asking “What actually helps?” before acting
- Courage = speaking up without being a jerk
- Self-control = redirecting stupid urges
- Justice = basic fairness like you’d teach a kid
Tried this for a week. Result? Fewer arguments, less impulse-buying crap, and Larry finally paid for his extra pizza slice. Felt like leveling up in real life.
