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36 lessons from NYC

In no particular order:

  1. You can walk as fast as you want, but you won’t get anywhere without considering those around you.
  2. On your worst days, something (or someone) will surprise you and show you kindness in ways you’d never expect.
  3. On your best days, something (or someone) will knock you down, humble you, and disappoint you in ways you’d never expect.
  4. There’s always someone better than you.
  5. There’s always someone with less than you.
  6. Find something to be grateful for every day.
  7. A smile can disarm anyone.
  8. You’ll only be happy if you’re true to yourself.
  9. You are defined by the company you keep.
  10. You have the ability to reinvent yourself. Every day.
  11. Most of the limits you see are created in your own mind. Sprint past them when possible and refuse to get in your own way.
  12. Relationships take work.
  13. There is someone for everyone.
  14. Everyone is beautiful in their own way. Look for this beauty in everyone you meet.
  15. Set aside time to nurture those who are important to you.
  16. Communities are essential. No matter your interests, there is one for you.
  17. Learn how to set boundaries and take care of yourself.
  18. Prioritize.
  19. You can view each day as a battlefield or a marvelous adventure. Your choice.
  20. There is always more money to be earned. Learn to be content with what you have.
  21. You probably have more than you need.
  22. You will be tested. Eventually, you will realize you are capable of much more than you think.
  23. Grocery stores don’t need to accommodate small cars. People get along just fine with handbaskets.
  24. It doesn’t matter what it looks like or how many square feet, home is where the heart is.
  25. Movie stars are people, too.
  26. You can put your body through some really grueling activities. It’s capable of amazing things. Be kind to it. You only get one.
  27. Get a bike. And get a damn good lock. If you don’t have a good lock, carry your front tire with you.
  28. It doesn’t matter how cute your shoes are, they better be comfortable and durable.
  29. The outdoors are closer than you think. Don’t neglect blue skies and trees.
  30. There is no reason to eat shitty food.
  31. Challenge yourself to find something new and try something new regularly.
  32. Refuse to settle.
  33. There are plenty of jobs. If you don’t like the one you have, life is too short to waste another day.
  34. Be open — to possibilities, different opinions, new ideas, different beliefs, new opportunities. If you are willing, your world will explode with options. Your choice.
  35. Everyone is creative. Express it in your own way.
  36. You really can create the life you want.

This second

You’re not going to get it back.

Think about that when considering the value of your time.

I’m taking something precious from you as you read this.

Now think about the people you’re choosing to spend your time with.

Would anything change if you honored how much each second is really worth?

A certain moment

There’s a moment you realize you’ve been living a lie. In fact, you haven’t really been living at all, you’ve just been going through the motions. You’ve performed what’s expected of you, doing what it takes to make it to five o’clock.

Suddenly, you realize that you possess the distinct power to create the life you thought was reserved only for others.

You recognize that you can choose to step in the direction of your dreams.

You finally realize that no one else can dictate your journey. You don’t have to wait to be put in the game. You can build a happy ending. You can choose to be the star.

If you haven’t had this moment yet, find people who have and ask them to help you get there yourself.

Life’s a set up.

We all know the crime scene where the good guy is framed by the bad guy. “It’s not fair,” we say. “He was framed!”

We set ourselves up every day.

Happiness, good friends, a rewarding career, an organized household — they’re the result of choices. The places we go and the people we surround ourselves with result in particular outcomes.

The choices aren’t always easy, but that’s why not everyone is successful.

Set yourself up to prosper.