“12 Rules for Life” by Jordan Peterson: Book Summary

1 Line Summary

12 Rules for Life is a book that offers practical advice on how to live a meaningful and fulfilling life.

What Will You Learn

Here are some of the benefits of reading “12 Rules for Life”, you’ll learn how to:

• take responsibility for your own life,
• set and achieve your goals,
• build strong relationships,
• live a meaningful and fulfilling life.

Best Quotations from the Book

1. Set your house in perfect order before you criticize the world.
2. Tell the truth – or, at least, don’t lie.
3. Compare yourself to who you were yesterday, not to who someone else is today.
4. Assume that the person you are listening to might know something you don’t.
5. Pursue what is meaningful (not what is expedient).
6. Do not let your children do anything that makes you dislike them.
7. Treat yourself like someone you are responsible for helping.
8. The past is not necessarily what it was, even though it has already occurred.
9. To stand up straight with your shoulders back is to accept the terrible responsibility of life, with eyes wide open.

Book Summary

“12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos” by Jordan Peterson offers a profound and comprehensive guide to navigating life’s complexities. Here are the twelve key rules from the book:

Rule 1: Stand Up Straight with Your Shoulders Back

• In the first rule, Peterson underscores the importance of adopting an upright posture both physically and symbolically.
• By standing tall and confident, we signal ourselves and others that we are ready to face life’s challenges.
• This rule emphasizes the significance of taking responsibility for one’s life and not succumbing to the victim mentality.
• The posture we choose reflects our attitude towards the world, and by confronting chaos with strength, we gain a sense of purpose and self-respect.

Rule 2: Treat Yourself Like Someone You Are Responsible for Helping

• This rule elaborates the concept of self-care and the tendency many people have to prioritize the well-being of others while neglecting themselves.
• By recognizing our own value and taking responsibility for our health and happiness, we can contribute positively to the world around us.

Rule 3: Make Friends with People Who Want the Best for You

• Third rule explores the significance of our social environment and the company we keep. Peterson advises that surrounding ourselves with people who support our growth and well-being is essential for leading a fulfilling life.
• He highlights the idea that negative, toxic relationships can undermine our happiness and should be managed or avoided, while positive, mutually supportive relationships can be a source of strength and encouragement.

Rule 4: Compare Yourself to Who You Were Yesterday, Not to Who Someone Else Is Today

• Comparing ourselves to others can lead to the feelings of inadequacy and despair. Instead, focus on personal growth and use the past self as the yardstick for improvement.
• This perspective allows for a more positive and productive evaluation of one’s progress.

Rule 5: Do Not Let Your Children Do Anything That Makes You Dislike Them

• Allowing children to behave without structure and discipline can lead to negative consequences, both , for them and their parents.
• Setting appropriate boundaries and instilling respect and responsibility in children is essential for their healthy development.

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

• Sixth rule addresses the idea of personal responsibility and the tendency to blame external factors for life’s challenges; however, true change begins with self-improvement.
• By addressing our internal chaos and working to resolve personal issues, we become better equipped to contribute positively to the world.
• The rule underscores the value of personal accountability in making a meaningful difference.

Rule 7: Pursue What Is Meaningful (Not What Is Expedient)

• The pursuit of short-term, expedient pleasures often leads to a shallow and unfulfilled existence. Instead, seek out what is truly meaningful and significant, even if it involves sacrifices and discomfort.
• The pursuit of meaning, he suggests, provides a deeper and more enduring sense of fulfillment.

Rule 8: Tell the Truth – or, at Least, Don’t Lie

• This rule emphasizes the importance of honesty, both in one’s interactions with others and in one’s relationship with oneself.
• Peterson argues that lying or being deceitful erodes trust and integrity.
• Speaking the truth, even when it is difficult, builds character and trustworthiness, contributing to personal growth and healthier relationships.

Rule 9: Assume That the Person You Are Listening to Might Know Something You Don’t

• Peterson highlights the importance of active listening and humility, assuming others have something valuable to share allows for a more open and productive exchange of ideas.
• It fosters personal growth and the opportunity to learn from others.

Rule 10: Be Precise in Your Speech

• Tenth rule emphasizes that speaking accurately and thoughtfully not only enhances our ability to convey ideas but also sharpens our thinking.
• It is a tool for minimizing misunderstandings and conflicts and for fostering productive dialogues.

Rule 11: Do Not Overprotect Your Children

• In this rule, Peterson suggests that sheltering children from all sorts of risk and adversity can deprive them of the opportunity to learn valuable life skills and resilience.
• Allowing children to face and overcome challenges prepares them for the complexities of adulthood.

Rule 12: Pet a Cat When You Encounter One on the Street

• The final rule serves as a metaphor of recognizing and appreciating the small, joyful moments in life. It encourages finding consolation and contentment in simple pleasures, even amid life’s struggles and challenges.
• Embracing these moments contributes to overall well-being and resilience.

If you are serious in improving your life, I highly recommend reading “12 Rules for Life” by Jordan B Peterson.

To know the insights of Habits, read “Atomic Habits“, and Click to Understand “The Insights of Self Awareness“