12 Rules For Life by Jordan Peterson

1. StandUp Straight with Your Shoulders Back

A rule not just for posture but also a metaphor for inner resilience.

A confident stance isn't merely a physical phenomenon—it conveys the person's mental strength.

As Peterson aptly puts it

"Stand up straight with your shoulders back...to encourage the serotonin to flow plentifully."

Harness this principle, and channel an aura of self-assurance that influences others around you.

2. Self-Compassion: Treat Yourself Like Someone You are Responsible for Helping

We tend to be generous with others while being hard on ourselves.

Peterson urges

“Treat yourself as you would someone you are responsible for helping."

It's high time we granted ourselves the same grace and care we offer others. Make it a habit to prioritize your well-being, making it a key element in your daily routine.

3. Be a Catalyst for Positive Change

Peterson believes in the power of daily improvements, no matter how minuscule. He encourages:

"Try to make one room in your house as beautiful as possible."

To make the world a better place, start with your immediate environment.

Small acts of kindness, a smile, and a thank you can go a long way.

4. The Art of Self-Improvement: Compare Yourself to Who You Were Yesterday

Peterson implores us to focus on personal growth instead of making futile comparisons with others.

Remember his words:

"Compare yourself to who you were yesterday, not to who someone else is today."

Your real competition lies in the mirror. Strive for betterment, and avoid the pitfall of comparison.

5. Proper Parenting: Don't Let Your Children Do Anything That Makes You Dislike Them

Child-rearing requires setting appropriate boundaries. As Peterson states:

"Don't let your children do anything that makes you dislike them."

This rule emphasizes the importance of disciplining your children in a manner that fosters their growth into responsible adults.

6. Set Your House in Perfect Order Before You Criticize the World

Peterson urges us to look inward before blaming the world, saying,

"Set your house in perfect order before you criticize the world."

Focus on the changes you can implement within yourself and your immediate surroundings before criticizing larger societal structures.

7. Pursue What is Meaningful, Not What is Expedient

Peterson encourages us to chase the meaningful over the easy.

He asserts:

"Pursue what is meaningful, not what is expedient."

Focus on the goals and aspirations that genuinely matter to you rather than settling for the path of least resistance.

8. Honesty Above All: Tell the Truth, or at Least, Don't Lie

Peterson stresses the importance of honesty, stating:

"Tell the truth, or at least, don’t lie."

Even in the face of adversity, upholding truthfulness contributes to a sense of personal integrity and respectability.

9. The Value of Open-Mindedness

In conversation, Peterson urges us to consider that we may learn something new,

"Assume that the person you are listening to might know something you don’t."

Adopt a learner's mindset, always open to new perspectives and knowledge.

10. Clarity in Communication: Be Precise in Your Speech

Peterson promotes the necessity of clear and accurate communication, "Be precise in your speech."

Convey your thoughts clearly and precisely to avoid misunderstandings and maintain effective communication.

11. Respect for Children's Interests: Do Not Bother Children When They Are Skateboarding

This rule encourages respect for children's hobbies. Peterson advises, "Do not bother children when they are skateboarding."

Grant children the freedom to engage in activities they enjoy, supporting their independence and self-expression.

12. Savor the Small Pleasures: Pet a Cat When You Encounter One on the Street

The final rule emphasizes the importance of appreciating small moments of joy. "Pet a cat when you encounter one on the street," advises Peterson.

Make time to experience simple pleasures, acknowledging the beauty in everyday occurrences.