The most dangerous idea in modern culture would sound completely insane to Aristotle.

I am talking about the idea that you can be anything you want.

Aristotle regarded the idea of random potential as nonsense.

Over 2,300 years ago, Aristotle asked a question that still divides people today:

Does everything have a true nature?

He believed the answer was yes.

An acorn becomes an oak, not an apple tree.

A lion acts like a lion, not like a rabbit.

And what about humans?

According to Aristotle, we are not made of malleable clay.

We all have built-in potentials and strengths, but those are different for each person.

That’s why Aristotle rejected the idea that each person can become literally anything.

To him, the key to thriving in life means becoming what you’re best suited to become.

It is not about pursuing random improvements.

But about discovering your highest potential.

And here’s the uncomfortable part:

If Aristotle is right, then most people are failing to reach their potential.

They’re failing because, instead of cultivating their strengths, they’re trying to become someone they’re not.

The question Aristotle leaves us with is the following:

Are you trying to imitate someone else?

Or are you creating the best version of yourself?

If you are interested in applying rational ideas in all sorts of situations, I recommend my book “The 10 principles of rational living.”