09/10/2026
Our character is shaped by what we aim toward—and by the choices we make when comfort, distraction, pleasure and short-term temptation try to pull us away from that aim.
Dr. Jordan B. Peterson’s work reminds us that we need an aim: something meaningful, higher, and worthwhile that gives direction to our choices over time.
True flourishing means building a life that supports your whole self in aiming up.
Drawing on the Human Flourishing framework from Harvard’s Human Flourishing Program, led by Dr. Tyler J. VanderWeele, flourishing includes:
Physical and mental health
Happiness and life satisfaction
Meaning and purpose
Character and virtue
Close relationships
Financial and material stability
Each day, we have an opportunity to practice this.
Choosing a nourishing meal.
Taking a walk.
Following through on a commitment.
Calling a friend.
Creating a budget, saving and wisely investing, or making a thoughtful financial decision.
Giving to our community.
Serving something bigger than ourselves.
We do not need to do everything perfectly. But we can choose one action today that moves us toward a healthier, more meaningful, more connected, and more secure life.
Our aim becomes our habits.
Our habits become our character.
And our character becomes part of the foundation for how we flourish.
Inspired by Dr. Jordan B. Peterson’s ideas on meaningful aim and responsibility, and the Human Flourishing framework developed by Dr. Tyler J. VanderWeele and colleagues at Harvard’s Human Flourishing Program.
