12 golden rules from the famous psychologist Erik Erikson that will help you in life

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Life is a complex journey filled with challenges, ups and downs. Renowned psychologist Erik Erikson, through his pioneering work on psychosocial development, provided invaluable insight into the human experience.

His 12 rules for life contain profound wisdom, guiding people to understand themselves and overcome the complexities of existence.

1. Fears that are inherited

"Healthy children will not be afraid of life if their elders have enough honesty not to be afraid of death."

When adults, especially parents or older family members, approach the topic of death with honesty and courage, it can contribute to children's emotional well-being. By addressing the natural part of life that is death, children can develop a healthier outlook on life and be less afraid of its uncertainties.

2. "Never accept insults."

The principle of not accepting insults is an important aspect of healthy interpersonal relationships. In a world where people have different points of view, beliefs and personalities, conflicts and misunderstandings are inevitable. However, it is important to remember that the way you communicate and respond to insults can significantly affect the resolution of conflicts and the overall atmosphere.

Refusing to accept insults does not mean ignoring disagreements or suppressing your emotions. Rather, it is a sign of emotional maturity and the ability to manage yourself in difficult situations. Swallowing insults every time will have negative consequences for a person’s health and well-being, as it can cause stress, aggression, and even lead to long-term conflicts. It is important to remember that everyone has the right to their own beliefs, and the world can be diverse.

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3. “Nothing really ends while we are alive.”

As long as we are alive, experiences, relationships, and opportunities continue to shape our lives. Erik Erikson emphasizes the ongoing nature of existence and suggests that even in moments of change or perceived ending, life continues to evolve and provide new opportunities.

4. "Life has no meaning without interdependence. We need each other, and the sooner we learn that, the better for all of us."

Life gains meaning and purpose through connections and relationships with others. By emphasizing mutual dependence on one another, it advocates the recognition and acceptance of the interdependence that exists in society, highlighting the idea that cooperation and support lead to a better life for all.

5. “The more you know yourself, the more patience you have for what you see in others.”

Self-awareness promotes patience and understanding of others. By understanding one’s own strengths, weaknesses, and motivations, people can develop empathy and tolerance for the diversity of others’ experiences and perspectives. Self-knowledge promotes compassion and patience for the differences and complexities found in those around us.

6. "We are what we like."

Our values, preferences, interests, and what we like or are drawn to define a large part of who we are. Our choices, whether in hobbies, relationships, or activities, reflect our identity and help shape our character. Our personal preferences play a role in shaping and expressing our individuality.

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7. “You must learn to accept the law of life and acknowledge the fact that it is slowly destroying us.”

Part of the human experience includes recognizing the inevitable challenges and hardships that come with life. The "law of life" refers to the natural processes of growth, change, and, ultimately, mortality. By recognizing and accepting these inevitable aspects, people can learn to overcome life's challenges with resilience and understanding, despite the gradual impact of time.

8. "Infants control and teach their families as much as they control them."

Children have a significant impact on their families. From the first days of life, babies show their needs for food, sleep, warmth and care.

The birth of a child is a great event that brings not only a new life, but also changes in the dynamics and priorities of the family. The moment a baby is born, the whole world of the family seems to revolve around it. The first months and years of a child’s life are the period when parents devote themselves to care, attention and love for their baby. The entire daily routine, sleep patterns, choice of activities – everything is adapted to the needs and schedule of the child. This is a natural manifestation of care and responsibility for a new life.

Having a child also brings changes to the relationship between parents. Parents may reconsider their priorities, put aside their own desires for the sake of their children, and strive to create better conditions for them.

9. Accept your victories and your defeats

"A child becomes an adult not when he realizes that he has the right to be right, but when he understands that he also has the right to be wrong."

Maturity is not just about being right, but also about understanding the right to make mistakes. True adulthood is achieved when a person recognizes their fallibility and understands the value of learning from mistakes. Taking responsibility for your mistakes and taking advantage of opportunities to grow contributes to personal development.

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10. "You learn very quickly in situations you don't like."

Discomfort or adversity accelerates the learning process. When faced with situations that seem unpleasant or challenging, there is increased motivation to adapt and learn in order to navigate or overcome the challenges. Discomfort and fears can be a powerful catalyst for personal growth and development.

11. “The richest and most fulfilling people try to achieve inner balance between three areas: work, love and play.”

Erik Erikson emphasizes the importance of achieving a harmonious balance in life by recognizing and developing three important aspects: work, love, and play. People who strive for self-realization and wealth in life strive to find a balance between their professional activities, personal relationships, and entertainment.

12. “A person’s conflicts reflect what he “really” is.”

A person’s internal and external conflicts can reveal their true nature. The problems and struggles that people face can reveal their values, beliefs, and priorities. This suggests that studying how someone deals with conflicts can provide insight into their character and core aspects of their identity.

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