This morning, I read the Life Lessons of an 80 Year Old Man. It really resonated several of the lessons were ones that I learned early in life. Particularly #31: Be bold, be courageous. When you look back in life, you will regret the things that you did not do more than the ones you did.
When facing a life decision, imagine your life at the end and you look back to see if this decision not to do something will be the subject of regret. It is a good measuring device.
Read the rest of the list. It is worth passing along.
Life Lessons from an 80 Year Old Man
- Have a firm handshake.
- Look people in the eye.
- Sing in the shower.
- Own a great stereo system.
- If in a fight, hit first – hit hard.
- Keep secrets
- Never give up on anybody. Miracles happen
- Always accept an outstretched hand.
- Be brave, even when you are not. Pretend, no one can tell the difference.
- Whistle.
- Avoid sarcastic remarks.
- Choose your life’s mate carefully. From this decision, 90% of your life’s misery or happiness will come.
- Make a habit of doing something nice for someone who will never find out.
- Lend those books that you will never care to see again.
- Never deprive some one of hope; it may be all they have.
- When playing games with children, always let them win.
- Give people a second chance, but not a third.
- Be romantic.
- Become the most positive and enthusiastic person you know.
- Loosen up. Relax. Except for life & death matters, nothing is as important as it first seems.
- Don’t allow the phone to interrupt important matters. It is there for your convenience, not the callers.
- Be a good looser.
- Be a good winner.
- Think twice before burdening a good friend with a secret.
- When someone hugs you, let them be the first to let go.
- Be modest. A lot was accomplished before you were born.
- Keep it simple.
- Beware of the person who has nothing to lose.
- Don’t burn bridges. You will be surprised to find out how many times you have to cross the same river.
- Live your life so your epitaph reads, “No Regrets”.
- Be bold, be courageous. When you look back in life, you will regret the things that you didn’t do more than the ones you did.
- Never waste an opportunity to tell someone you love them.
- Remember, no one makes it alone. Have a grateful heart and be quick to acknowledge those who helped you.
- Take charge of your attitude. Don’t let someone else choose it for you.
- Visit friends and relatives when they are in the hospital. Only stay a few minutes.
- Begin each day with some of your favorite music.
- Once in a while, take the scenic route.
- Send a lot of Valentines cards, signed by “Someone who thinks you are terrific.”
- Answer the phone with enthusiasm and energy in your voice.
- Keep a notepad and pencil by your bedside. Million dollar ideas strike at 3am.
- Show respect for everyone who works for a living, no matter how trivial.
- Send your loves ones flowers. Think of a reason later.
- Make someone’s day by paying the toll for the car behind you.
- Become someone’s hero.
- Marry for love.
- Count your blessings.
- Complement the meal when you are a guest in their home.
- Wave at children on a school bus.
- Remember that 80% of your success in any job is based upon your ability to deal with people.
- Don’t expect life to be fair.