Rules To Live By
Rules To Live By: Lessons from Jordan Peterson's Books
Jordan Peterson, author of "12 Rules for Life" (2018) and "Beyond Order" (2021), provides us with practical advice on how to live a meaningful life. His books are based on the idea that taking responsibility for oneself is the key to personal growth and transformation.
Here are some of his most notable rules:
"Stand up straight with your shoulders back." Good posture is not just about looking confident, it can actually affect your mood and energy levels.
"Treat yourself like you are someone you are responsible for helping." Self-care is important and should not be neglected. It is much easier to help others when you are in a good place yourself.
"Compare yourself with who you were yesterday, not with who someone else is today." Comparing ourselves to others can be detrimental to our self-esteem and happiness. Focus on your own progress and growth.
"Do not let your children do anything that makes you dislike them." As parents, it is our responsibility to set boundaries and teach our children how to behave properly. This will benefit them in the long run.
"Set your house in perfect order before you criticize the world." Before you start criticizing others or the world around you, make sure that your own life is in order. This will give you a better perspective and more credibility.
"Pursue what is meaningful (not what is expedient)." Don't just chase after short-term pleasures or goals that have no real meaning. Focus on what truly matters to you and what will bring long-term fulfillment.
"Tell the truth - or, at least, don't lie." Honesty is an important value to uphold, even in difficult situations. It is better to be truthful than to deceive others or ourselves.
"Assume that the person you are listening to might know something you don't." Everyone has something to teach us, even if we don't agree with them. Keeping an open mind and being willing to learn from others is important for personal growth.
"Be precise in your speech." Clear communication is key in any relationship or interaction. Being precise and avoiding vague language can prevent misunderstandings and foster better connections.
"If old memories still upset you, write them down carefully and completely." Writing can be a powerful tool for processing emotions and trauma. Taking the time to write down our experiences and feelings can help us make sense of them.
These rules offer practical guidance for anyone looking to improve their life. By taking responsibility for our actions, striving for personal growth, and cultivating positive relationships, we can create a more fulfilling and meaningful life.