Today I turn 42, and I made it a point to reflect on every unique life or business lesson someone has taught me. I wanted to share them with you because of how meaningful they've been to me.
These aren't just words; they are principles that have shaped me, guided me, and fueled my growth as an individual and a professional.
42 Lessons from 42 Years of Life:
Personal Development & Choices:
- Don't fuck around in your 20s.
- Travel internationally before you're 25.
- Don't date people you know you have no future with.
- If you party hard, work harder.
- You are who you surround yourself with. Pick wisely.
- Some people will hate you for no reason. Screw 'em.
- Nice guys finish last. Kind, assertive people don't.
Career Strategy & Mindset:
- Build meaningful & modern skills ASAP.
- Don't take roles at work that you don't have interest in.
- If you can't teach yourself, you're a liability.
- Your environment often dictates your success.
- If you're always a bottom performer, you're frustrating others.
- If you suck at your job, don't complain. Quit or get better.
- Take a bunch of small risks early in your career.
Leadership & Management:
- When you become successful, check your ego.
- When someone gives you an opportunity, do your absolute best.
- Hire top performers and get out of their way.
- Immediately fire people who create drama at work.
- Thinking is great. Action solves problems.
- Some people have it. Some people don't.
- You can't say yes to everyone - don't try.
Communication & Relationships at Work:
- Don't burn bridges at work.
- Build boundaries with your boss and direct reports.
- Never lash out at work.
- Don't send an angry email. Talk in person.
- Never shit-talk your employees or colleagues.
- When you need help at work, ask for it.
- Everyone has an agenda. Help them achieve it.
Personal Mindset & Philosophy:
- Assume everyone has positive intentions.
- Most mistakes are from ignorance, not malice.
- Learn to control your own narrative.
- Don't compare yourself to others. Be your best you.
- Being selfish is sometimes the best thing for your family.
- Only spend time with people who reciprocate.
- Optimists are often wealthy, and pessimists are often right.
Performance & Success:
- C students who take action outperform Valedictorians.
- If you're always a top performer, average people will frustrate you.
- You can always make more money, never more time.
- Everyone is winging it. You don't need permission to join them.
- Plans are great, but planning to be surprised is best.
- Serial complainers aren't worth taking seriously.
I hope these lessons are helpful to you.
Of course, some might be specific only to my journey, so take them with a grain of salt.
Good luck out there!