The Importance of Having Multiple Scaffolds in Life
When pursuing a goal or a career, it is crucial to have multiple options and alternative paths. Dr. Jordan Peterson, a renowned psychologist and professor, emphasizes the importance of having multiple scaffolds in one's life to avoid catastrophic failures and maintain a healthy balance.
The Risks of Singular Focus
Dr. Peterson suggests that solely focusing on one's career or a single goal can lead to unidimensionality and potential burnout. While some individuals may achieve exceptional success in their chosen domain through intense dedication and long hours of work, they often sacrifice other aspects of life, such as family and leisure activities.
Although becoming exceptional in one area may require unidimensionality, Dr. Peterson argues that it comes at a high cost. Individuals who prioritize their careers above all else may find it challenging to maintain a fulfilling life outside of work.
Instead, Dr. Peterson proposes a more balanced approach. By spreading oneself across multiple areas of life, such as career, family, hobbies, and friendships, individuals can maintain a well-rounded and fulfilling life. While this approach may not lead to exceptional success in a single domain, it provides a greater overall satisfaction and reduces the risk of failure.
The Pursuit of Perfection vs. Wholeness
Dr. Peterson draws on the ideas of Carl Jung, a famous psychoanalyst, who suggested that men tend to pursue perfection, while women strive for wholeness. Pursuing perfection often involves staking everything on a single goal and aiming for extraordinary success. On the other hand, striving for wholeness involves finding balance and fulfillment in multiple areas of life.
While not all men choose the path of unidimensionality, Dr. Peterson notes that extreme cases of men fully dedicating themselves to their careers are more common. This may be influenced by societal expectations and the potential benefits of socioeconomic status for men in the mating market. Women, on the other hand, often prioritize other aspects of life and are less inclined to sacrifice everything for a single pursuit.
The Sacrifice of Maturation
As individuals grow older, they face the sacrifice of childhood potential for the actuality of a specific path. Dr. Peterson emphasizes the importance of consciously choosing this sacrifice rather than letting it happen without awareness. By actively choosing their limitations and commitments, individuals gain control over their lives and can shape their futures.
While delaying maturation and prolonging childhood may seem appealing, Dr. Peterson warns against the potential consequences. Procrastinating on important decisions and responsibilities can lead to a delayed realization of one's true potential. Waiting until a later age to make significant life choices can also result in a more difficult transition and missed opportunities.
The Chronic Sense of Unfinished Business
Dr. Peterson acknowledges that humans are chronically dissatisfied with their current circumstances. This dissatisfaction stems from the inherent vulnerability and uncertainty of life. No matter how much one achieves or possesses, there is always the possibility of loss or instability.
While it is important to appreciate and be grateful for what one has, Dr. Peterson suggests that this chronic dissatisfaction serves as a motivation for growth and progress. It is this dissatisfaction that pushes individuals to strive for more and explore new possibilities, even if the problems they are trying to solve are not fundamentally solvable.
In conclusion, having multiple scaffolds in life is essential for maintaining a balanced and fulfilling existence. While focusing solely on a single goal may lead to exceptional success in that area, it often comes at the cost of other important aspects of life. By spreading oneself across various domains, individuals can lead a more well-rounded life and reduce the risk of catastrophic failures. It is important to consciously choose one's sacrifices and embrace the chronic sense of unfinished business, as it provides the motivation for personal growth and progress.
