by Dr. A. Jerry Simon
We live in an age of abundance. Plates overflow, notifications ping constantly, work beckons 24/7, and opportunities for over – indulgences, are everywhere. Yet, true contentment and sustained energy often lie not in relentless consumption, but in the ancient art of temperance: the skillful management of our appetites, be they for food, time, pleasure, or achievement.
Temperance at the Table: Temperance with food isn’t about harsh denial, but mindful awareness. It’s savouring a cone of ice-cream rather than mindlessly devouring a whole bucket. It’s listening to your body’s signals of hunger and fullness, choosing nourishing whole foods most times, and understanding that a special meal or treat is truly special precisely because it’s not an everyday occurrence. It’s the pause before the second helping, asking, “Am I still hungry, or just eating because it’s there?”
Temperance for Time: Our days are finite, yet we cram them endlessly. Protect your time like the precious resource it is. Set boundaries, saying no to that extra commitment that would fracture your focus, schedule true downtime without screens and resist the urge to constantly optimize every minute. Recognize that rest and relaxation aren’t laziness, but essential fuel for creativity and resilience. Prioritize keenly and guard moments of stillness.
Temperance for Pleasure: Life is richer with celebration and pleasure. However, temperance allows us to enjoy these fully, without the hangover (literal or metaphorical). It’s about conscious choice: enjoying a few drinks at a party while staying hydrated and knowing your limit, rather than chasing oblivion. It’s planning for the fun and the recovery, understanding that relentless indulgence dulls the very pleasure we seek. True enjoyment often peaks before excess sets in.
Temperance for Work: Ambition drives us, but when left unchecked it consumes. Temperance in work means striving for excellence without sacrificing health or relationships on the altar of hustle. It’s setting clear start and end times, taking real breaks, and understanding that sustainable productivity requires rest. It’s resisting the urge to check emails constantly, recognizing that constantly being busy often masks inefficiency.
The Temperate Mindset: Temperance is a form of self-respect and wisdom. It’s the understanding that more isn’t inherently better. It’s the discipline to pause, assess, and choose consciously. It empowers us to enjoy life’s offerings deeply without being enslaved by them. Mastering temperance isn’t about living small; it’s about living fully, sustainably, and intentionally. It’s the art of finding enough, leaving space for appreciation, vitality, and the quiet joy that comes from being truly in control of your appetites. Cultivate this art, and discover a richer, more balanced life.