Aristotle Nicomachean Ethics Quote:“The temperate man desires what he ought, as reason prescribes.”​

“The temperate man desires what he ought, as reason prescribes.”​
— Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics, Book III, Chapter 11
(Translated by W.D. Ross)

ig Idea

Self-control is your brain’s GPS 🧭:

• 🐷 Wild Mode = Eat entire pizza because it’s there → Stomachache.
• 🧠 Smart Mode = Have 2 slices + salad → Energy for family time.

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​Real-Life Scenarios

🛒 Grocery Temptations

→ Undisciplined: Buy 10 candy bars on sale → Sugar crash.
→ Temperate: Choose dark chocolate + almonds → Steady focus.

💸 Holiday Shopping

→ Undisciplined: Max credit cards for Instagrammable gifts → January debt.
→ Temperate: Make handmade cards + 1 meaningful gift → Happy memories.

🍷 Stress Relief

→ Undisciplined: Drink whole wine bottle after work → Hangover + regrets.
→ Temperate: Pour 1 glass + call a friend → Real connection.

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​What You Can Do

1. ​The “Should I?” Checklist
   Before wanting something, ask:
   • Will this help me ______? (Fill with: play with kids/work better/etc.)
   • What would I advise my best friend?
2. ​Desire Swap
   Replace 1 craving with 1 rational alternative:
   → Late-night chips → Herbal tea + crossword.
   → Impulse Amazon buy → Library book reserve.
3. ​Temperance Tracker
   Use phone notes to log weekly wins:
   Week 1: Resisted 3rd coffee → Avoided anxiety ✅
   Week 2: Skipped revenge shopping → Saved $200 ✅