10 Lessons I’ve Learned in Life (If I knew then what I know now…)

My life has changed.  In the past few years I’ve transitioned to someone who invests in others and I have people who actually seek my advice. I know that sounds egotistical (which would not be unusual for me), but I don’t mean it that way at all.  It’s just that at almost 45 years of age, with a wealth of practical experience; including many negative experiences, I am at a mid-life stage where I have learned some things and, because I believe so strongly in sharing experiences, people sometimes seek out mine.  Looking back over my life I now think often, “I wish I had known then what I know now”. 

So, here are a few of those things I have learned.  If you are a young person, this is some advice I’d love to share with you.  You may not take it as seriously as I want you to, because I never did when I was that age, but I hope you do.  I know now that this is valuable information.  I only wish I had known it back then. 

1.      All experiences, good or bad, shape us for life.   Don’t let any of them pass you by without learning something. 

2.      Stay in physical and spiritual shape throughout your life.  It is much easier to maintain than to try and get back in shape. 

3.      If you have a strong passion to do something, (and it is honorable) be willing to risk everything to do it.  You can always recover if you fail and, if you fail, you will learn valuable lessons in the process.  Someone once said to me, ask yourself: What would you do if you knew you couldn’t fail?  Do that! 

4.      Never quit dreaming.  Dreams often fuel the best of life. 

5.      It goes by fast.  Let me say it again, because you read that too quickly.  IT GOES BY FAST!

6.      Things are usually not as bad as they appear right now.  Be patient, make wise decisions, and it will get better. 

7.      You will look back and wish you had done some things more and some things less.  Figure out those what those things are now and prioritize your life accordingly. 

8.      Let a few people into the deepest parts of your life. Allow yourself to be vulnerable with a select few.  There will be a time when this is needed.  (Trust me.)

9.      Make relationship decisions carefully. 

10.  Above all else, guard your heart, for it affects everything you do.  (Proverbs 4:23)    

Now, I’m looking for someone in their late 50’s or older to share their list like this with me.  Anyone?