42 Lessons from 42 Years of Life

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!

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