18 lessons to my 18 year-old self:
1. To change your life for the better- it’ll take one decision, and a million good choices.
2. Nothing is as good as it seems or as bad as it seems.
3. In times of order & chaos- control the controllables. Attitude & Effort.
4. Words matter-work to be precise.. Actions matter more- work to be diligent.
5. Action cures fear.
6. Go to where the energy that you desire in your life is. Your environment/the people around you will mold you; whether you like & accept it, or not.
7. When frustrated with a situation or person- ask more questions.
8. There are no new wisdoms. Mentor under those who know the way, show the way & go the way.
9. Fear is a compass. Follow it. Start before you’re ready.
10. In creative endeavors, imperfect & shipped is better than perfect & hidden. (i.e., this list)
11. The quality of your life is the quality of your communication.” -Tony Robbins
12. Write your ideas down. Kill the ugly ones & take action on the good ones, quickly.
13. Drink deeply from good books. Read the great ones over and over. (You’re going to love The Alchemist, How to Win Friends & Influence People, and The Greatest Salesman in the World.)
14. Committing yourself to working hard, studying hard, and being coachable will take you farther than you think.
15. It’s hard to say no to a smiling idiot. Enthusiasm works when you do. (best paired with
#14 )
16. Work to become the kind of person you would recommend.
17. “Feeling gratitude & not expressing it is like wrapping a gift and not giving it.” When you feel gratitude for someone or something- give it away.
18. You don’t have it all figured out- you never will, but if you’re less ignorant today than you were yesterday- you’re doing something right.
+1) 19. Make it a point to underpromise and overdeliver.
