The Next Big Idea Daily What Would Ben Franklin Do?
Jul 4, 2024
Author Eric Weiner discusses his book 'Ben & Me' exploring Benjamin Franklin's life lessons on anger management, authenticity, and dealing with people. Franklin's tactics for a purposeful life provide valuable insights for modern living.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Begin And End Your Day With Two Questions
- Ask two questions each day to orient your actions: morning and evening check-ins guide behavior toward usefulness.
- Focus on tangible results over intentions by measuring what good you actually did today.
Authenticity As Functional Role-Playing
- Franklin embraced role-playing and pseudonyms as tools to get work done rather than awaiting some hidden authentic self.
- He believed masks can be genuine when they fit and serve useful purposes in public life.
Delay Angry Responses With A Placebo Letter
- Don't act on raw anger; delay and draft a 'placebo letter' then wait 24 hours before sending.
- Use patience to reassess and often discard the angry message, preserving relationships and influence.