Wisdom from my Dad
(Sharing what he shared with me)
Recently, my Dad wrote up a list of the advice he’d give to a younger version of himself.1 It’s a rare gift to hear the wisdom that someone has gathered over a lifetime, so I wanted to share my Dad’s tips with my readers.
Take a few moments to really sit with each idea; I think you’ll find some advice here that might speak to the moment of life you’re currently in.
Here’s Dad’s advice for his younger self (and perhaps, for you!):
- Invest in relationships.
- If you want to have a friend, you have to be a friend.
- Find a girl, settle down, if you want you can marry. (Cat Stevens)
- Prioritize family.
- Learn the stories of your friends and family.
- Ask questions, listen, and learn.
- Invest in others and encourage others.
- Try something new. (excludes drugs and risky behaviors!)
- Regular dollar cost investing. Start early and keep it simple.
- Reach UP and Out at work. (Connect with people in other departments or different levels in the organization.)
- Be a life long learner.
- Read, do, go, and try.
- Spend time with your spouse & children. Encourage each one.
- Hug your kids.
- Get a hobby and have some fun.
- It’s not about you.
- Focus on what’s important and not just what’s urgent.
- Stay balanced.
- Be generous.
- Don’t live in fear.
- Don’t have regrets.
- Say I’m sorry.
- Learn from your mistakes and move on. Don’t stay stuck.
- Laugh, cry, hug, and hold.
- When you’re old & grey, work won’t be there. Choose wisely.
- Build a community at church.
- Travel and expand your views.
- Keep moving and make healthy life choices.
- Be grateful.
- Find several mentors to encourage you and share advice.
- Mentor someone and give back.
- If you have your health, you’ve got just about everything.
- Enjoy life’s journey and savor each chapter - even what’s hard.
- Be deliberate to make memories. Put in the effort.
- Take chances and don’t be afraid.
- Show up for those you love.
- Smile and be positive.
- Don’t be afraid to tell someone you love them.
- If you’re going to do it, do it right.
- Acknowledge your days are numbered.
- Think about what’s important and be deliberate.
- Use your gifts, talents, and resources to make an impact.
- Between time and money, time is more important.
- Call your parents, siblings, relatives, and friends.
- Stay connected.
- Live life well.
He’s been doing Storyworth, which prompts him with various opportunities to share his memories and ideas. It’s been really cool to see his writing and hear the stories from his life, so I encourage anyone who is considering a similar option to try it!