At its core, temperance is about finding the right measure in all things. It is the determination to exercise self-restraint and to make choices that reflect our highest values rather than our fleeting impulses.
The ancient Greeks regarded temperance as a crucial virtue, linking it to the concept of “sophrosyne” which embodies moderation, balance, and rationality. In the Christian tradition, temperance is one of the four cardinal virtues—alongside prudence, justice, and fortitude—which are essential for living a moral and virtuous life.
But like anything worthwhile, embracing the virtue of temperance requires intentional effort and practice. Here are five practical ways to cultivate this essential virtue in your daily life:
Thoughtful Consumption
Whether it pertains to food, drink, media, or really any sensual pleasure, you should be mindful of your consumption habits. Pay attention to what you are consuming and how it affects your body and mind. Aim for moderation and balance, allowing yourself to enjoy treats without overindulgence which can affect your mood and your spirit.
Set Boundaries
You should establish some boundaries in various areas of your life, including your work and social engagements, as well as leisure activities. Learn to say “no” when necessary and prioritize activities that align with your religious values and goals. A good rule of thumb is to make sure to never neglect your prayer life, especially your morning offering and your evening examination of conscience.
Take Time to Reflect
Speaking of your evening examen, be sure to take time to reflect on your choices and behaviors. Lots of folks (who ought to know) recommend journaling as a potentially powerful tool for self-discovery, because it can help you identify patterns of excess and areas where you can practice moderation. I have never really made a practice of journaling, however, I have been doing public speaking as well as talk radio and now podcasting for about the last 25 years, so perhaps, in a way, I really have been . Doing my journaling in a public forum also helps with the next thing on the list which is to:
Seek Accountability
They say it is well to share your goals for cultivating temperance with trusted friends or family members. Having a support system can encourage you to stay committed to your journey toward balance and self-control. Frankly this is something I personally avoided for a long time, because I’m proud and being held accountable for my actions can be humiliating. But humility is essential for any kind of spiritual growth. Which leads to the final point:
Cultivate an “Attitude of Gratitude”
Being grateful can help shift your focus from what you lack to what you have. By appreciating the simple joys in life, you can more readily find fulfillment without the need for excess.
The virtue of temperance is a guiding light that leads us toward a life of balance, fulfillment, and genuine happiness. In a culture that virtually glorifies excess, temperance invites us to embrace moderation, fostering inner peace and strengthening our relationships. By practicing this virtue, you and I not only enhance our own well-being but also contribute to the greater good by becoming the person that God made us to be. I can tell you that in my pursuit of temperance, I am actually experiencing something that I have long believed: that true abundance Does not lie in the quantity of our experiences but in the quality of our choices and the depth of our connections. And that’s no nonsense.