Don Miguel Ruiz

The Four Agreements

1. IDEA 1

   We live by unchosen agreements

   Ruiz, drawing on Toltec teachings from Mexico, argues that as children we are domesticated: we learn beliefs about ourselves and the world from family and society. These beliefs become agreements that shape our lives, often causing suffering.

2. IDEA 2

   Be impeccable with your word

   The first agreement is to speak with integrity, saying only what you mean and avoiding using words against yourself or others. Ruiz sees words as powerful tools that can create or destroy.

3. IDEA 3

   Don't take things personally

   The second agreement is not to take others' words and actions personally. Ruiz argues that what others do reflects their own beliefs, not your worth. Ruiz presents this as a way to protect your peace from other people's moods.

All 8 ideas from The Four Agreements →