Mar 14, 202315 min read

Jordan Peterson 12 Rules for Life (Summary)

An Antidote to Chaos

Jordan Peterson's 12 Rules for Life Summary Art

Jordan Peterson has become a massive figure in culture.

Jordan Peterson's "12 Rules for Life" has become one of the most read self-improvement books out there.

This book offers practical advice for living a meaningful life and has resonated with readers around the world.

In this article, we'll explore the 12 rules and offer our own insights and perspectives on them.

Rule 1: Stand up straight with your shoulders back

The first rule in Peterson's book is to stand up straight with your shoulders back. This rule emphasizes the importance of posture and body language in conveying confidence and assertiveness. When you adopt a strong and upright posture, you're more likely to feel confident and capable.

However, this rule goes beyond just physical posture. It also speaks to the importance of taking responsibility for your own life and actions. By standing up straight and facing your problems head-on, you're more likely to take control of your life and achieve your goals.

Peterson also points out the evolutionary significance of this rule, highlighting how many animals use posture and body language to assert dominance and attract mates. By standing up straight with your shoulders back, you're sending signals to those around you that you're confident and in control.

Additionally, Peterson acknowledges that there may be underlying psychological reasons for poor posture, such as anxiety or depression. By working to improve your posture, you can also work to address these underlying issues and improve your mental well-being.

Overall, Rule 1 emphasizes the importance of physical posture and body language in conveying confidence and taking control of your life. By standing up straight with your shoulders back, you're sending a message to yourself and those around you that you're capable, confident, and ready to take on whatever challenges come your way.

Rule 1 stand with your shoulders back | Jordan Peterson's 12 Rules for Life Summary Art

Rule 2: Treat yourself like someone you are responsible for helping

The second rule in Peterson's book is to treat yourself like someone you are responsible for helping. This rule emphasizes the importance of self-care and self-compassion in improving your own well-being and ability to help others.

Peterson argues that many people struggle with self-care and often put others' needs ahead of their own own needs. However, he suggests that treating yourself with the same level of care and attention that you would give to someone you're responsible for can help you to improve your own life and better serve others.

This rule also acknowledges the importance of taking responsibility for your own health and well-being. By prioritizing self-care, you're more likely to make positive changes in your life, such as eating well, exercising, and getting enough sleep.

However, Peterson also recognizes that self-care can be challenging for many people, especially those who struggle with mental health issues or addiction. He suggests that seeking professional help, such as therapy or medical treatment, can be an important step in improving your own well-being.

Overall, Rule 2 emphasizes the importance of self-care and self-compassion in improving your own well-being and ability to help others. By treating yourself like someone you are responsible for helping, you can take control of your own health and happiness, and become better equipped to serve those around you.

Rule 2 Help yourself | Jordan Peterson's 12 Rules for Life Summary Art

Rule 3: Make friends with people who want the best for you

The third rule in Peterson's book is to make friends with people who want the best for you. This rule emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with positive and supportive people who encourage your growth and development.

Peterson argues that the people we surround ourselves with can have a significant impact on our lives, both positive and negative. By choosing to spend time with people who encourage us to be our best selves, we're more likely to achieve our goals and live a fulfilling life.

However, Peterson also acknowledges that this can be challenging for many people, and young man, especially those who struggle with social anxiety or lack a supportive social network. He suggests that one way to address this is to focus on developing your own character and pursuing your own interests, which can help you to attract like-minded people into your life.

This rule also highlights the importance of setting healthy boundaries even with people who may not have your best interests at heart. By being selective about the people you spend time with, you're more likely to avoid toxic or negative relationships that can hold you back.

Overall, Rule 3 emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with positive and supportive people who encourage your growth and development. By making friends with people who want the best for you, you're more likely to achieve your goals, build a strong social network, and live a fulfilling life.

Rule 3 having supportive friends | Jordan Peterson's 12 Rules for Life Summary Art

Rule 4: Compare yourself to who you were yesterday, not to who someone else is today

The fourth rule in Peterson's book is to compare yourself to who you were yesterday, not to who someone else is today. This rule emphasizes self awareness and the importance of personal growth and self-improvement your own way, rather than comparing yourself to others and feeling inadequate.

Peterson argues that comparing yourself to others can lead to feelings of envy, resentment, and-doubt. Instead, he suggests that we should focus on our own progress and growth, and strive to be better versions of ourselves each day.

This rule also highlights the importance of setting realistic goals and working towards them consistently. By focusing on our own progress, we can measure our success based on our own accomplishments and milestones, rather than comparing ourselves to others who may have different circumstances or advantages.

However, Peterson also acknowledges that self-comparison can be a powerful motivator, as long as it's used in a healthy and constructive way. By setting goals and benchmarks that challenge us to improve, we can use our own progress as a source of inspiration and motivation.

Overall, Rule 4 emphasizes the importance of personal growth and self-improvement, and encourages us to measure our success based on our own progress and achievements, rather than comparing ourselves to others. By focusing on our own growth and striving to be better versions of ourselves each day, we can all achieve success in our goals and live a fulfilling life.

Rule 4 compare yourself with who you were yesterday | Jordan Peterson's 12 Rules for Life Summary Art

Rule 5: Do not let your children do anything that makes you dislike them

The fifth rule in Peterson's book is to not let your children do anything that makes you dislike them. This rule emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries and expectations with our children, in order to raise them to be responsible, respectful, and well-behaved individuals.

Peterson argues that as parents, it's our responsibility to provide our children with guidance and discipline, and to teach them to behave in ways that are conducive to their own well-being and the well-being of those around them. This involves setting clear rules and consequences, and being consistent in enforcing them.

However, Peterson also acknowledges that parenting can be difficult, and that it's important to approach it with compassion and understanding. He suggests that we should aim to be firm but fair with our children, and to recognize that they're still learning and developing.

This rule also highlights the importance of fostering a positive relationship with our children, based on mutual respect and understanding. By setting clear boundaries and expectations, we can build trust and respect with our children, and create a safe and supportive environment for their growth and development.

Overall, Rule 5 emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries and expectations with our children, and of providing them with guidance and discipline to help them become responsible and respectful individuals. By fostering a positive relationship with our children based on mutual respect and understanding, we can help them to thrive and grow into well-adjusted adults.

Rule 6: Set your house in perfect order before you criticize the world

The sixth rule in Peterson's book is to set your house in perfect order before you criticize the world. This rule emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for our own lives and circumstances, and of making positive changes in our own lives before we try to change the world around us.

Peterson argues that it's easy to criticize the world and point out its flaws, but that this can often be a way of avoiding our own problems and shortcomings. By taking responsibility for our own lives and making positive changes in our own circumstances, we can become better equipped to handle the challenges of the world around us.

This rule also highlights the importance of self-improvement and personal growth, and of recognizing that we have the power to make positive changes in our own lives. By focusing on our own well-being and striving to improve ourselves, we can become more effective in our efforts to make a positive impact on the world.

However, Peterson also acknowledges that setting our own house in order can be a difficult and ongoing process, and that it requires commitment, perseverance, and self-reflection. He suggests that we should aim to identify areas of our lives that need improvement, and work consistently to address these areas and become better versions of ourselves.

Overall, Rule 6 emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for our own lives and circumstances, and of making positive changes in our own lives before we try to change the world around us. By focusing on our own self-improvement and personal growth, we can become a better person equipped to handle the challenges of the world, and to make a positive impact on the people and communities around us.

Make your bed | Jordan Peterson's 12 Rules for Life Summary Art

Rule 7: Pursue what is meaningful (not what is expedient)

The seventh rule in Peterson's book is to pursue what is meaningful, not what is expedient. This rule emphasizes the importance of finding purpose and meaning in our lives, and of making choices that align with our values and goals, rather than simply choosing the easiest or most convenient option.

Peterson argues that pursuing what is meaningful is essential for a fulfilling and satisfying life, and that it requires us to take on responsibility and make sacrifices in pursuit of our goals. This involves identifying our values and priorities, and making choices that align with these values and priorities, even if they are difficult or require us to step outside of our comfort zones.

At the same time, Peterson acknowledges that pursuing what is meaningful is not always easy, and that it can involve facing challenges, setbacks, and obstacles along the way people achieve it. He suggests that we should approach these challenges with resilience and determination, and view them as opportunities for self development, growth and self-improvement.

This rule also emphasizes the importance of taking a long-term perspective on our lives and goals, and of recognizing that the pursuit of meaning and a purpose driven life is an ongoing process. By continually striving to align our choices and actions with our values and goals, we can create a sense of purpose and direction in our lives, and live a more fulfilling and satisfying existence.

Overall, Rule 7 emphasizes the importance of finding purpose and meaning in our lives, and of making choices that align with our values and goals, even if they are difficult or require sacrifices. By pursuing what is meaningful and taking responsibility for our lives, we can create a sense of purpose and direction, and live a more fulfilling and satisfying existence.

Pursue meaning | Jordan Peterson's 12 Rules for Life Summary Art

Rule 8: Tell the truth – or, at least, don’t lie

The eighth rule in Peterson's book is to tell the truth, or at least, not to lie. This rule emphasizes the importance of honesty and integrity in our lives, and the negative consequences that can result from deception and dishonesty.

Peterson argues that telling the truth is essential for building trust and fostering healthy relationships with others. It also helps us to stay aligned with our values and to live in accordance with our principles, which can give us a sense of purpose and meaning in our lives.

However, Peterson acknowledges that telling the truth can be difficult and uncomfortable at times, and that it can require courage and vulnerability. He suggests that we should approach truth-telling with compassion and empathy, and strive to communicate in a way that is both honest and respectful of others.

At the same time, Peterson acknowledges that there may be situations where telling the truth is not always the best course of action. In such cases, he suggests that we should at least refrain from lying, and avoid communicating in a way that is intentionally deceptive or manipulative.

Overall, Rule 8 emphasizes the importance of honesty and integrity in our lives, and the positive impact that truth-telling can have on our relationships and sense of purpose. By striving to communicate honestly and respectfully, and avoiding deception and manipulation, we can build trust and foster healthy relationships with others, and live in accordance with our values and principles.

Tell the truth | Jordan Peterson's 12 Rules for Life Summary Art

Rule 9: Assume that the person you are listening to might know something you don’t

The ninth rule in Peterson's book is to assume that the person you are listening to might know something you don't. This rule emphasizes the importance of open-mindedness and humility in our interactions with others, and the value of seeking out new knowledge and perspectives.

Peterson argues that many people tend to approach conversations and debates with a closed mind, assuming that they already know everything there is to know about a particular topic. This mindset can lead to a lack of curiosity and a failure to learn from others, which can ultimately limit our growth and development.

Instead, Peterson suggests that we should approach conversations and debates with an open mind, assuming that the other person might have something valuable to offer. This requires humility and a willingness to acknowledge that we don't have all the answers, and that there may be other perspectives and ways of thinking that we haven't yet considered.

By assuming that the person we are listening to might know something we don't, we open ourselves up to new ideas and perspectives, and we can learn and grow in ways that we wouldn't be able to if we approached conversations and debates with a closed mind. This can help us to become more well-rounded and informed individuals, and to better understand and navigate the complex world around us.

Overall, Rule 9 emphasizes the importance of open-mindedness and humility in our interactions with others, and the value of seeking out new knowledge and perspectives. By assuming that the person we are listening to might know something we don't, we can learn and grow in ways that can ultimately benefit ourselves and those around us.

meditation art, spiritual listening | Jordan Peterson's 12 Rules for Life Summary Art

Rule 10: Be precise in your speech

The tenth rule in Peterson's book is to be precise in your speech. This rule emphasizes the importance of clarity and accuracy in our communication with others, and the value of taking responsibility for the impact that our words can have on others.

Peterson argues that many of the problems in our personal and professional relationships stem from a lack of clear communication. When we are imprecise in our speech, we can create misunderstandings and confusion, and we may not be able to effectively convey our ideas and intentions to others.

By being precise in our speech, we can avoid these problems and improve the quality of our interactions with others. This requires taking the time to carefully choose our words and to express ourselves as clearly and accurately as possible. It also involves being willing to acknowledge our own mistakes, and correct any mistakes or misunderstandings that arise in our communication.

Additionally, Peterson suggests that being precise in our speech can have broader implications for our personal development and well-being. When we are able to articulate our thoughts and feelings with clarity and accuracy, we can better understand ourselves and our place in the world. This can help us to make more informed decisions and to live more purposeful lives.

Overall, Rule 10 emphasizes the importance of clarity and accuracy in our communication with others, and the value of taking responsibility for the impact that our words can have on those around us. By being precise in our speech, we can improve the quality of our interactions with others and promote our own personal growth and development.

Speech | Jordan Peterson's 12 Rules for Life Summary Art

Rule 11: Do not bother children when they are skateboarding

The eleventh rule in Peterson's book is a somewhat unconventional one: "Do not bother children when they are skateboarding." This rule is a metaphor for the importance of allowing children to engage in activities that challenge and push them outside of their comfort zones, even if those activities may be risky or unpopular.

Peterson argues that children need opportunities to explore and take risks in order to develop the resilience and self-confidence that will serve them well throughout their lives. When we intervene too heavily in their lives or try to shield them from all risks and challenges, we may actually be doing them a disservice.

Skateboarding, according to Peterson, is an activity that offers children an opportunity to take risks and push themselves in a controlled and constructive way. By mastering new tricks and techniques on the skateboard, children can develop the skills, self-confidence and resilience they need to tackle other challenges in their lives.

However, when adults intervene and try to regulate or restrict children's skateboarding, they may be depriving them of an important opportunity for growth and development. Instead, Peterson argues that adults should support and encourage children's efforts to explore and take risks, while also providing guidance and supervision as needed to ensure their safety.

Overall, Rule 11 emphasizes the importance of allowing children to engage in activities that challenge and push them outside of their comfort zones, even if those activities may be risky or unpopular. By supporting and encouraging children's efforts to explore and take risks, we can help them to develop the resilience and self-confidence they need to succeed in life.

children skateboarding | Jordan Peterson's 12 Rules for Life Summary Art

Rule 12: Pet a cat when you encounter one on the street

The final rule in Peterson's book is perhaps the most light-hearted one: "Pet a cat when you encounter one on the street." While this rule may seem like a whimsical suggestion, it actually reflects an important principle of life: the value of taking a moment to appreciate and enjoy the simple pleasures that we encounter each day.

Peterson argues that in the midst of our busy and often stressful lives, we may overlook the small moments of joy and beauty that are all around us. By taking a moment to pet a cat on the street or appreciate a beautiful sunset, we can tap into a sense of wonder and gratitude that can help us to find greater meaning and purpose in all the things in our lives.

Furthermore, Peterson suggests that taking the time to appreciate the simple pleasures in life can help us to develop a more positive and optimistic outlook. By focusing on the small moments of joy and beauty that we encounter each day, we can cultivate a sense of gratitude and contentment that can help us to navigate the challenges and difficulties that life inevitably brings.

Overall, Rule 12 emphasizes the importance of taking a moment to appreciate and enjoy the simple pleasures that we encounter each day. By petting a cat on the street or taking in a beautiful sunset, we can tap into a sense of wonder and gratitude that can help us to find greater meaning and purpose in our lives, and develop a more positive and optimistic outlook.

pet a cat on the street | Jordan Peterson's 12 Rules for Life Summary Art

Conclusion

In conclusion, Jordan Peterson's "12 Rules for Life" offers a compelling and thought-provoking guide for living a meaningful and fulfilling life. From the importance of taking responsibility for one's actions to the value of finding purpose and meaning in life, Peterson's book offers a wealth of insights and practical advice for anyone seeking to live a better life.

Moreover, Peterson's impact on culture and his contribution to helping young men cannot be overstated. His emphasis on personal responsibility and the importance of finding meaning and purpose in life has resonated with millions of people around the world, particularly young men who have struggled to find direction and purpose in a rapidly changing world.

Through his books, lectures, and public appearances, Peterson has become a voice of reason and hope for many people, offering a powerful message of personal transformation and growth. His work has helped countless individuals to overcome personal challenges and to live more meaningful and fulfilling lives.

Overall, Jordan Peterson's "12 Rules for Life" is a testament to the power of personal growth and transformation. By embracing these principles and putting them into practice, anyone can cultivate a greater sense of purpose and meaning in their lives, and make a positive impact on the world around them.

FAQs about Jordan Peterson

Who is Jordan Peterson?

Jordan Peterson is a Canadian clinical psychologist, cultural critic, and professor of psychology at the University of Toronto.

What is Jordan Peterson known for?

Jordan Peterson is known for his work on personality psychology, his critique of political correctness and identity politics, and his advocacy for individualism and personal responsibility.

What is Jordan Peterson's stance on religion?

Jordan Peterson has spoken extensively about the psychological and cultural significance of religious beliefs, arguing that religious stories and myths provide a framework for understanding and navigating the world.

What is Jordan Peterson's stance on politics?

Jordan Peterson has described himself as a classical liberal, and has criticized both the political left and right for what he sees as their failures to address key social and cultural issues.

What is Jordan Peterson's most famous book?

Jordan Peterson's most famous book is "12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos," which was published in 2018.

What are some of Jordan Peterson's most popular lectures?

Some of Jordan Peterson's most popular lectures include "Maps of Meaning: The Architecture of Belief," "The Psychological Significance of the Biblical Stories," and "Personality and Its Transformations."

What controversies has Jordan Peterson been involved in?

Jordan Peterson has been involved in several controversies, including his opposition to Canadian legislation that he argued would compel him to use gender-neutral pronouns, his criticism of social justice movements and feminism, and his comments on topics such as race and IQ.

How has Jordan Peterson's work influenced the field of men self-development and personal growth?

Jordan Peterson's work has had a significant impact on the field of personal development, particularly in its emphasis on personal responsibility and individualism. Through his lectures, books, and other writings, Peterson has encouraged individuals to take ownership of their lives and to strive for personal excellence. He has also emphasized the importance of developing virtues such as honesty, integrity, and resilience, which are key to success in any endeavour. Overall, Jordan Peterson's work has helped to inspire and guide countless individuals on their journeys of self-improvement and personal growth and helped them improve self esteem, difficult emotions and stress so they can live a good life through the structure of a no nonsense approach.

How has Jordan Peterson's message impacted the self-improvement & personal development journey of young men?

Jordan Peterson's message has resonated particularly strongly with young men who are seeking to improve their lives. Through his emphasis on personal responsibility and individualism, Peterson has encouraged men to take ownership of their actions and to strive for excellence in all areas of their lives. His work has also focused on developing virtues such as courage, honesty, and resilience, which are particularly important for men as they navigate the challenges of modern society. By promoting these values and providing practical advice for self-improvement, Jordan Peterson has helped to empower countless young men to become the best versions of themselves.

How does Jordan Peterson address self-doubt in his work?

Jordan Peterson acknowledges that self-doubt is a natural part of the human experience, but he emphasizes the importance of not letting it control one's actions. He encourages individuals to take action despite their doubts, and to trust in their ability to learn and grow from their mistakes. Peterson's work also emphasizes the importance of developing a strong sense of purpose and meaning in life, which can help to provide a sense of direction and confidence in one's abilities.

What is the significance of Jordan Peterson's work?

Jordan Peterson's work has been significant in its critique of political correctness and identity politics, its emphasis on personal responsibility and individualism, and its exploration of the psychological and cultural dimensions of human experience. His work has been influential in a wide range of fields, including psychology, philosophy, politics, and cultural studies.