For the last few years, I’ve been working on a list of life rules. My goal in this was to encapsulate my beliefs and core life concepts into concise, pithy statements.
I have unapologetically begged, borrowed, stolen, mixed, matched and modified some of these to suit my purposes. Since I don’t believe in original thought (I’d wager that all co-occur or are independently thought by multiple parties), if you want to attribute any these to someone in particular, do whatever floats your boat…I may live by them, but I make no original claim to them 😉
This list will be a constant work-in-progress, but here’s what I have so far:
Rule #1 Nothing is impossible. The very word says I’m Possible. If the Universe is infinite, and all indications are that it is, then possibility must be equally infinite.
Rule #2 Just because it’s possible doesn’t mean it’s a good idea. Use data to make your case one way or the other, if data is available. Be thoughtful and analytical, and don’t jump to conclusions or make rash decisions.
Rule #3 Humans aren’t machines, and work best in fits and spurts. Work should be done when and where you feel most productive. Just get it done, on-time and high quality.
Rule #4 You can’t do everything yourself. And even if you can, you probably shouldn’t. Collaborate and delegate wherever possible.
Rule #5 The only constant is change, so you should be changing constantly. Try new things. Run tests. Get out of your comfort zone. Never permit yourself to settle into a rut.
Rule #6 Your time is precious, limited, and an unknown quantity. Value it highly, and don’t waste it.
Rule #7 Living is more important than just surviving. It’s better to die while truly living, than live while slowly dying. Continue reading…
