In this episode of The Tim Ferriss Show, Tim Ferriss interviews Jordan Peterson, a Canadian clinical psychologist and professor of psychology at the University of Toronto. The interview covers a wide range of topics, including Peterson’s book “12 Rules for Life,” his thoughts on psychedelics, his interpretation of the Bible, and his personal struggles with addiction and depression.
Peterson shares insights into his 12 Rules for Life, which include “stand up straight with your shoulders back,” “treat yourself like someone you are responsible for helping,” and “compare yourself to who you were yesterday, not to who someone else is today.” He explains how these rules can help individuals take responsibility for their lives and find meaning in a chaotic world.
The conversation then turns to psychedelics, with Peterson discussing his experiences with LSD and psilocybin mushrooms. He shares his thoughts on the potential therapeutic benefits of these substances and the importance of integrating psychedelic experiences into one’s life in a responsible and meaningful way.
Peterson also discusses his interpretation of the Bible, which he sees as a collection of stories and myths that contain deep psychological truths. He explains how these stories can help individuals confront their own limitations and find meaning in life.
Throughout the interview, Peterson is candid about his struggles with addiction and depression, and he shares how he has learned to manage these challenges through a combination of therapy, medication, and self-care.
Overall, the interview provides a fascinating glimpse into the mind of one of the most influential thinkers of our time, and offers practical advice for individuals seeking to live more meaningful and fulfilling lives.
Some more information on Jordan Peterson’s “12 Rules for Life”. It is a self-help book that offers practical advice for individuals seeking to navigate the complexities of life and find meaning in a chaotic world. Here are the 12 rules:
- Stand up straight with your shoulders back
- Treat yourself like 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
Each of these rules is accompanied by a chapter that explores the underlying principles and provides practical advice for how to implement them in one’s life. Overall, the book encourages readers to take responsibility for their lives, confront their own limitations, and strive towards a more meaningful existence.
