The Rules

The following list represents some common-sense nuggets of wisdom that I have observed to be true and strive to put into practice in my life. I think there are more sayings floating around in the world than are useful, so applying a personal filter may be of use to people. Feel free to make suggestions for follow-up pieces of advice – this list can grow/shrink over time – but please avoid any platitudes or “everything I need to know I learned in kindergarten” thoughts about nap time* and cookies. Also notice this is not a list of Don’ts.

1. When you criticize, also suggest a solution, or else you will just vent anger, which will help you in the short term and harm everyone in the long term.

2. State your intentions or others will assign them for you.

3. Lead by example. Only ask others to do something if you’re willing to do it yourself.

4. Hope for the best and prepare for the worst. Doing so will keep you grounded when others are excited, whether during good or bad news.

5. People feel better given credit by others than by themselves. Share the praise.

6. Anger and frustration are opportunities to prove yourself stronger than their causes.

7. Life is nothing but discovery. Be grateful for teachers, human and otherwise.

*Your life could probably use more naps. Carpe diem doesn’t mean “die a workaholic.”