This is the time of year students are settling into school at all levels: elementary, middle school, high school, and colleges.
My own son has leaped into the high school years. In addition to the obvious study, I got to thinking about what makes us successful in life professionally and personally.
Here is the list I would like to share, especially with today’s youth.
- Take care of your mind and body. It is your temple, and you only get one.
- Always be curious and inquisitive.
- Learn always to communicate effectively.
- As Henry Ford said, “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t–you’re right.”
- Try to understand the other side’s perspective first.
- Think before you speak/act; words and actions have consequences, positive and/or negative.
- Cast a wide net of friends, acquaintances, and colleagues. These relationships will give your life a richer, more interesting experience.
- Always act and speak with integrity and never forget to treat others as you want to be treated.
- People and relationships matter; get to know people and build relationships.
- Be resilient. If you fail, pick yourself up, learn from the experience, and move forward.
- Be relentless. Never give up.
- Have passion and conviction in all you do.
- Always go the extra mile. It will pay off.
- Don’t be the victim. If something goes wrong, what was your part? Could you have done something? Learn.
- Don’t be complacent; look at the facts. Be decisive.
- Control your emotions.
- Presentation and impressions matter.
- Spend the time to prepare, plan, organize before you execute.
- Learn to think on your feet.
- Have fun. Life is short. Enjoy it.
- You have the power of choice.
- Be independent and self-sufficient always.
- Have vision, a master plan.
- Don’t sweat the small stuff; look at the big picture.
I jotted down these few thoughts. I hope they help you on your path forward.