5 Aristotle quotes that will change your life completely 

Aristotle is hailed as the greatest Greek philosopher who significantly contributed to the fields of science, politics, and logic. His influential work expanded several disciplines and continues to enjoy readership to this day. The popular historical figure stressed virtue, rationalism, and intentional action as the pillars of a flourishing life. His timeless sayings will change life forever, inspiring reflection on what it means to live with meaning, purpose, and awareness.

“Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom”

While it is important to know the world we inhabit, it is equally essential to self-reflect. Realising our strengths, weaknesses, and desires helps us face the highs and lows of life better. Self-awareness leads to personal growth. For Aristotle, wisdom is the result of introspection, which enables us to lead a purpose-driven life aligned with our values.

“Happiness depends on ourselves”

Happiness derived from the material world is temporary. True lasting joy is the outcome of our mindset and comes from taking responsibility for our actions. The choices we make, the way we nurture our mind and body, and the contentment we feel—all play an important role. Hence, it’s a constant practice that has little do with external circumstances.

"Courage is the first of human qualities because it is the quality which guarantees the others”

Aristotle emphasised the importance of courage as the starting point of all human qualities. If you lack courage, other qualities, such as honesty, compassion, justice, and empathy, don’t matter. Possessing courage lays the foundation for all other virtues to flourish meaningfully. According to Aristotle, moral excellence requires bravery and is essential for an ethical life.

“Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all”

Education is a holistic pursuit. It is essential to grow intellectually and gain knowledge about the world we live in, but it is equally important to cultivate qualities like empathy, compassion, and integrity. This enables us to use our intellect for good and become morally aware contributors to society.

“The good for man is an activity of the soul in accordance with virtue”

For Aristotle, a life well-lived includes flourishing by acting with both reason and moral virtue. Happiness cannot be derived from money or indulgences, but it comes from our actions and choices being aligned with our morals. He prioritised courage, justice, compassion and living a life that struck a balance between the mind and the heart.