In the new Prager University video, Dr. Jordan Peterson, Professor of Psychology at the University of Toronto, gives practical advice on how a man or woman can help solve problems in life by taking personal responsibility.
Dr. Peterson explains, “Blaming others for your problems is a complete waste of time. When you do that, you don’t learn anything. You can’t grow, and you can’t mature. Thus, you can’t make your life better.”
He continues, “In my three decades as a professor and clinical psychologist, I have learned that there are two fundamental attitudes toward life and its sorrows. Those with the first attitude blame the world. Those with the second ask what they could do differently.”
Dr. Peterson uses the example of a husband and wife facing divorce. Each has a list of grievances against the other person.
“Their prospects for reconciliation are grim. Why? Because other people aren’t the problem,” he says. “You’re the problem.”
He adds, “You can’t change other people, but you can change yourself. But it’s difficult. It takes courage to change, and it takes discipline. It’s much easier, and much more gratifying to your basest desires, to blame someone else for your misery.”
Dr. Peterson notes that there is no easy solution, but taking practical steps to change is a good way to start.
“Start small,” he advises. “Ask yourself a few questions: Have you taken full advantage of the opportunities offered to you? Are you working to your fullest capacity at school or at work? Have you, in other words, set your own house in order?”
Watch the video here.
