Quote of the day: “A good deed is better than a good word,” Benjamin Franklin once said.
The lines are often attributed to the 1737 edition of Poor Richard’s Almanack.
What does this mean
The quote says that actions speak louder than words. He talks about focusing on results over just flowery promises.
Simply put, actions mean more than intentions. While it may be easy to make a statement, promise, explain or impress anyone with sweet words, only actions can determine true value.
Through this quote, the speaker encourages people to focus less on intent or appearance and more on fulfilling their promise.
How relevant it is
The quote remains useful even today. Surrounded by influencers, content creators and even unnamed experts, social media is flooded with several claims with little or no substance. This is where the Franklin Principle cuts through that noise, because credibility is built on what you consistently deliver. Its meaning lies in shifting the focus from intention to action. In today’s world, measured performance matters most.
Who was Benjamin Franklin?
Benjamin Franklin was one of the most versatile figures of the 18th century. Statesman, scientist, author, publisher, diplomat, and above all one of the key founding fathers of the United States, Franklin played a large role in the formation of the United States. He drafted the Declaration of Independence and contributed to the US Constitution. He was instrumental in gaining French support during the American Revolution.
He is known for his famous kite experiment which led to the invention of the lightning rod to protect buildings from fires during thunderstorms. He also created bifocal glasses, designed the Franklin stove, and more. He also coined terms like “positive” and “negative” charge, which further elevated science as we know it today.
He was also a writer. From the age of 23 he was associated with The Pennsylvania Gazette. Through Poor Richard’s Almanack, he popularized wisdom and touched on subjects such as discipline, thrift, and action. He also wrote essays and The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin.
Popular Benjamin Franklin Quotes
Check out more Benjamin Franklin quotes:
“Love your enemies because they tell you your faults.”
“He who falls in love with himself will have no rivals.”
“There was never a good war or a bad peace.”
“Better a slip of the feet than a slip of the tongue.”
“It is better to take many wounds than to inflict one.”
-“When you are good to others, you are the best to yourself.”
-“Lost time is never found again.”
-“Without pain there is no gain.”
-“A true friend is the best possession.”
“A true heart surpasses all.”
-“Don’t throw rocks at your neighbors if your windows are glass.”
-“Look first or you’ll find yourself behind.”
-“He who lies down with dogs, gets up with fleas.”
-“Don’t hide your talents, they were made for use. What are sundials in the shadows!”
-“Glass, China and reputation are easily cracked and never mend well.”
-“What is more valuable than gold? Diamonds. Than diamonds? Virtue.”
-“Don’t wish to live as long as you wish to live well.”
