12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos

by Jordan Peterson

Presents a collection of 12 principles for living a meaningful and fulfilling life, drawing on the author's own experiences and insights as a clinical psychologist, professor, and public intellectual. It covers topics such as personal responsibility, self-discipline, and the importance of storytelling in human culture, and provides practical advice and guidance for creating the life desired and achieving goals.

self-help
psychology
non-fiction

"Stand up straight with your shoulders back."
- Jordan Peterson, 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos

My Review:

In this book, Peterson explores a set of rules that he believes are essential for leading a meaningful and fulfilling life. He argues that these rules can help us navigate the complexities of the modern world and find order in the midst of chaos.

The rules are presented as practical wisdom, drawing from various sources including ancient mythology, religious traditions, and the author's own personal experiences. Each rule is accompanied by insightful commentary and practical examples, making the book accessible to readers from all walks of life.

Here are the 12 rules discussed in the book:

  • Stand up straight with your shoulders back.
  • Treat yourself like you would someone you are responsible for helping.
  • Make friends with people who want the best for you.
  • Compare yourself to who you were yesterday, not to who someone else is today.
  • Do not let your children do anything that makes you dislike them.
  • Set your house in perfect order before you criticize the world.
  • Pursue what is meaningful (not what is expedient).
  • Tell the truth – or, at least, don't lie.
  • Assume that the person you are listening to might know something you don't.
  • Be precise in your speech.
  • Do not bother children when they are skateboarding.
  • Pet a cat when you encounter one on the street.

Overall, "12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos" is an engaging and thought-provoking read. Peterson's writing style is clear and concise, making the book easy to follow. The rules presented in the book are not just theoretical concepts but practical guidelines that can be applied to everyday life. Whether you are seeking personal growth or simply looking for a new perspective on the world, this book is definitely worth checking out.