This is a guest post written by my father, Drew. He is a wise man. I am honored by his decision to contribute to our blog. In his own words, here are 10 life lessons he has learned over the last 40 years.
- Key to a Happy Marriage: Listen to the story, then listen some more, then listen even more. Don’t try to offer brainy solutions. Occasionally state in a quiet, respectful tone the words, “Yes, Dear”.
- You are what you eat. Read about nutrition – certain foods agree with you, others don’t. Experiment with your own body chemistry. I try to avoid coffee and sugar.
- The French have an aphorism that you don’t appreciate something until you don’t have it anymore. In 40 years from now what is it that you will regret not having accomplished, appreciated or attempted? Do it, appreciate it, attempt it NOW!
- The greatest “adventure” is the ability to INQUIRE, TO ASK QUESTIONS. Sometimes in the process of inquiry, the search is more significant than the answers. Answers come from other people, from the universe of knowledge and history, and from the intuition and deep wisdom inside yourself.
- Physical exercise is important at any age to reduce stress and optimize well being. Include the full range of cardiovascular, muscle building and stretching –yoga. Join a health club with a swimming pool. When you can’t get to the health club, take 30 minute brisk walks, breathe and be in the moment.
- Life gives and takes away. During difficult times, be committed to resolving problems, but also lighten up and ride the waves of impermanence. What is a monster problem today will be a forgotten thought in the future.
- Achievements are the result of preparation.
- Supporting, guiding, and making contributions to other people is one of life’s greatest rewards. In order to get, you have to give.
- Time is of the essence. You are born and you will die. Don’t waste the time in between. Use a time management system to control events, rather than have events controlling you. Read Getting Things Done by David Allen.
- Shakespeare’s character Hamlet tells us that “nothing is good or bad as thinking makes it so”. As a problem solver, or at any point to gain clarity with your own mind and emotional state, try this inquiry from the author Byron Katie: What is the “story” that is going on in my mind at this moment? Is it true? How do I know that it is true? What is the situation like with this story? What would my life be like at this point without this story?
Duck says
Profound up until number 10…I will definitely start doing yoga!!!
Lance says
Great post! All very insightful. My favorite from this list (and they’re all great) is number 3. I really need to work harder on this. This moment that I have now will never be here again. The times I have done this are some of the most profound moments of my life.
Thanks for sharing this great list.
chime says
I don’t usually like lists because most of them are full of fluff. This one was wonderful.
penny says
In re: number 7.
hard work beats lazy talent.
Genius beats both.
But, Genius plus hard work beats Genius.
One more to add:
That there are people with ” Severe Borderline Personality Disorder”. NEVER have a relationship with one. Read:
” I love you: I hate you, I’ll Kill You; Don’t leave me”,
which should be given to all JHS students.
Debt Free Hispanic says
How about investing a little at a time. I regret not investing at the age of 19-25, I spent my money like crazy and now i’m having to to start fresh. But at least i’m debt free so i’m able to save more, but i’m still playing catch up.
Shane says
Great post!