[dropcap]S[/dropcap]chool is a valuable experience… for about the first 5 or so years. Once you learn how to read, write and do basic math, you’ve learned 80% of what you need to go out and create your life on your terms.
Granted, if you want to be a doctor, lawyer, engineer or do some other type of specialized work, then you will need to go all in on the education system.
Still, even then, true success in every area of life isn’t guaranteed. Many of the most important traits of those we admire are not taught in school—at any level. The most important ideas and skills for successful living, on and off the job, aren’t taught in school.
Consider these 10 life secrets for living a successful and enjoyable life:
1. Persistence is the ultimate equalizer
There are plenty of highly intelligent and talented people living on the street. Even if you feel that you were born with the short end of the stick, you can still be incredibly happy and successful by any measure. The ability to persevere can overcome almost any obstacle and level the playing field no matter how talented your “opponent” might be.
2. Trying to control other people is a waste of time and energy
With practice, you can learn to control yourself. When you appreciate how challenging it is to control yourself, you’ll realize how futile it is to attempt to control others. Invite people into your life that you don’t feel the need to change, and everything will go more smoothly.
3. YOU are the best bet, the best investment, and the best ROI
Spend money to enhance your skills and abilities. A gym membership and the right books can be the best money you’ll ever spend.
4. Fail faster
Those that ultimately succeed are those that failed the most. Fail quickly, learn, adjust your process, and have another go at it.
5. Forgive faster
When you forgive others, you set yourself free. Forgiveness doesn’t always mean you give the other person a second chance. It means that you’re choosing not to suffer any longer.
6. Most of the things you worry about will never happen
We’re all experts at creating imaginary challenges. We worry and expect the worst. Take a few moments and think about the biggest worries you’ve had. Most of them never happened. There’s plenty of time to get upset after something negative actually happens. Avoid feeling bad before it’s justified.
7. You only need a couple of good friends
Good friends are hard to find. Those people that you believe have 20 close friends do not. Focus on making quality relationships. You don’t have enough time to take care of more than a couple of close friends anyway.
8. Find a partner that fits into your life, rather than trying to build a life around your partner
Suppose you have the life-long dream of spending your winters in San Diego and your summers in the south of France. It doesn’t make sense to become romantically involved with someone that insists on living near their family in Oklahoma! Build a life you love and then find someone that fits into your lifestyle. There are more people you could happily spend a lifetime with than you think.
9. Find your purpose
Living in a three-bedroom ranch with two kids and a dog is not enough for everyone. Imagine having everything you want in life, but spending 8+ hours each day at a job you despise. You’ll spend a lot of time at work. Ensure that you find something you enjoy.
10. Stay in shape
Even the 3-sport high school athlete can eventually reach 300 pounds. It’s much easier to stay in shape than to get in shape. Develop an exercise routine and diet plan you can follow for a lifetime.
It’s possible to do well in school and still struggle with life. However, life is easier than you think once you understand these 10 secrets they didn’t teach you in school.
Sean McCool is a US ARMY Veteran, speaker, award-winning copywriter, master life coach, and best selling author. His private coaching clients include entrepreneurs, actresses, children’s book writers, franchise owners, small business owners, authors, podcast creators, and even a member of the World Martial Arts Hall of Fame. You can learn more about Sean by clicking here.
