Unlocking the Power of Speech: Jordan Peterson’s Guide to Becoming Dangerously Articulate
In a talk by Jordan Peterson, he emphasizes the profound importance of being articulate and how it significantly impacts one’s life and success. Articulation, the ability to express oneself clearly and effectively, is more than just a skill; it’s a cornerstone of competence and influence. Here’s a distilled version of Peterson’s insights on how to become more articulate.
The Power of Articulation
Peterson begins by comparing physical articulation to verbal articulation. Just as articulated joints enable complex and graceful movements, articulate speech allows for precise and compelling communication. An articulate person can navigate complex ideas and convey them in a way that resonates with others, making them a formidable force in any field.
The Role of Education
One of Peterson’s critical observations is that young men, in particular, are often not taught the value of being articulate. He argues that the educational system fails to emphasize the importance of literacy and communication skills. For Peterson, being articulate is essential for anyone, regardless of their profession. Even a plumber, with the ability to articulate, can negotiate better, explain problems and solutions more clearly, and ultimately provide better service.
Articulation and Culture
Peterson highlights that our culture is built on the supremacy of the word. He explains that our ability to extract order from chaos is deeply rooted in our capacity for articulate speech. This idea is fundamental to the functioning of our society and its progress. Therefore, becoming articulate is not just a personal achievement but a cultural imperative.
Practical Steps to Becoming More Articulate
- Pay Attention to Your Words: Peterson advises starting by being mindful of what you say. He suggests treating speech like navigating a path across a swamp, where each step must be carefully felt out to find solid ground. This analogy emphasizes the importance of choosing words deliberately and understanding their impact.
- Align Speech with Action: Drawing from the work of Carl Rogers, Peterson underscores the necessity of integrating what you say with who you are. Genuine and trustworthy communication arises when your words reflect your true thoughts and feelings.
- Avoid Filler Words: One practical tip is to eliminate fillers like “um,” “ah,” and “like.” These words weaken your message and make you appear less confident. Instead, take the time to craft your words carefully and pause when necessary.
- Read and Write: Peterson encourages reading great writers and writing about the issues that matter to you. This practice helps refine your thoughts and improves your ability to express them clearly.
- Speak the Truth: Practice saying what you genuinely believe to be true. This aligns with Peterson’s broader philosophy that truth is foundational to a meaningful and successful life. Speaking truthfully strengthens your integrity and makes your communication more compelling.
- Ask Genuine Questions: In conversations, Peterson suggests pausing to genuinely consider what you think about a topic before responding. This approach leads to more thoughtful and interesting discussions, fostering growth and understanding.
The Moral Dimension of Articulation
For Peterson, becoming articulate is not merely a practical skill but a moral endeavor. He views it as a way to master your tongue and, by extension, your life. Articulate speech can create order from chaos, making it a divine act. He urges people to embrace this responsibility and see where it leads, suggesting that it can transform your life into an adventure.
Real-Life Examples
Peterson provides examples of individuals who embody articulate power, such as former Navy SEAL Jocko Willink. His success as a leader and warrior is partly due to his ability to communicate effectively, plan strategically, and advocate for his team.
Peterson also points to Joe Rogan’s success as a podcaster as an example of the power of honest, non-instrumental communication. Rogan’s genuine curiosity and ability to ask thoughtful questions have made him a beloved and influential figure.
In essence, Jordan Peterson’s message is clear: becoming articulate is a pathway to personal and professional success. It’s a skill that can be developed through mindful practice, reading, writing, and speaking the truth. More than that, it’s a moral commitment to aligning your words with your true self and using your speech to bring order and meaning to the world. So, take up the challenge and see what happens when you strive to be more articulate.
