“I have desired to live without committing any sin at any time; I would like to conquer everything to which natural inclination, habit or company could lead me” is the declaration of intent with which this discussion begins, using strong terms such as conquer to characterize this goal as a battle that his perseverance can win. The thirteen virtues that he tries to entrust to habit also reflect his belief in building his own life; order, industry, moderation, tranquility, and humility each depend on the idea that a person can control their emotions and live in a constant state of productivity to achieve any goal possible. Even after abandoning this pursuit, Franklin believes that his efforts made him a better person with a greater chance of success in life, claiming that "for this effort I was a better and happier man than I should otherwise have been." This example and many others from his autobiography show that Franklin felt wholeheartedly that anyone could improve their state of being and their material affairs by pushing themselves.