My dad once told me: “By age 35, you should be smart enough to realize this..."

 

As I sat across the table from my dad, sipping on a hot cup of coffee, he leaned in and said, "By age 35, you should be smart enough to realize this." His words were laced with the wisdom that only comes from years of experience, and I listened intently, eager to learn from his insights.

1. Stay Silent: The Power of Restraint

"Not everything needs to be said," my dad began, his gaze unwavering. "Silence is often the most powerful response, especially in the face of unnecessary drama." He explained that by choosing our words carefully and refraining from impulsive reactions, we can maintain our composure and avoid escalating situations unnecessarily.

2. Collaboration over Competition

"If you find someone smarter than you, work with them, don't compete," he advised. "Competition is a weakness, not a strength." My dad emphasized the importance of embracing a collaborative mindset, recognizing that we can learn and grow by surrounding ourselves with individuals who challenge and inspire us, rather than viewing them as threats.

3. The Family You Create

"The family you create is more important than the family you come from," he said, his voice softening. "Blood may be thicker than water, but the bonds we forge through our own choices and actions can be even stronger." He encouraged me to focus on building a supportive and nurturing environment, whether it's with a spouse, close friends, or a chosen family, rather than being beholden to the dynamics of my family of origin.

4. Navigating the Corporate Landscape

"Your current job doesn't care about you," my dad stated bluntly. "They only pay you enough to kill your dreams." He urged me to approach my career with a clear-eyed perspective, understanding that while a paycheck is essential, it's crucial to maintain a sense of purpose and pursue opportunities that align with my aspirations.

5. Forging Your Own Path

"Free yourself from society's advice, because most of them have no idea what they're doing," he said with a wry smile. "Most people drift through life, with no purpose, no direction, and zero intent." My dad encouraged me to be discerning when it comes to the opinions and advice of others, and to instead focus on developing my own sense of purpose and direction.

6. The Power of Influence

"Learn their needs and lead them," he advised. "Most people have no idea what they're doing, and they're looking for someone to guide them." My dad's words resonated with me, as he highlighted the importance of understanding the needs and motivations of those around us, and using that knowledge to positively influence and inspire them.

7. The Value of True Friendship

"It's better to have 1 friend who's happy for you, supports your wins, and encourages your dreams, than a bunch of acquaintances who are lazy, self-centered, and jealous of your success," he said emphatically. My dad's insight underscored the importance of cultivating deep, meaningful relationships with individuals who genuinely care about our well-being and growth.

8. Forgiving Your Past

"You'll be 10x happier if you forgive your parents and stop blaming them," he said, his eyes meeting mine with a gentle understanding. "No one will ever come save you. Your life is 100% your responsibility." My dad's words challenged me to take ownership of my own life, while also encouraging me to let go of the resentment and blame that can hold us back from true happiness and fulfillment.

9. Prioritizing Your Inner Circle

"Your inner circle should be more focused on money, success, and starting a family," he advised. "You don't need 100 self-help books. All you need is actions and self-discipline." My dad's insight highlighted the importance of surrounding myself with individuals who share similar goals and values, and the power of taking concrete steps towards personal growth and achievement, rather than relying solely on passive consumption of self-help content.As I listened to my dad's words, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and gratitude. His insights were not just the product of his own experiences, but a distillation of the wisdom he had accumulated over the years. He had walked the path before me, and he was generously sharing the lessons he had learned along the way.In a world that often values noise and constant activity, my dad's message of restraint, collaboration, and personal responsibility resonated deeply. He challenged me to think beyond the superficial and to focus on the core elements that truly matter in life – the relationships we build, the purpose we cultivate, and the discipline we develop.As I reflect on my dad's words, I am reminded of the famous quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson: "The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be." My dad's wisdom has inspired me to take ownership of my life, to surround myself with individuals who uplift and support me, and to pursue my dreams with unwavering determination.If you've made it this far, congratulations – you're part of the 1% who finish what they start. This, my dad would say, is a major trait for success. Believe in your heart and soul that you are capable of big things in your life, and remember that the only thing standing in your way is yourself. Remove your glass ceiling, and let your dad's wisdom guide you towards a life of fulfillment and purpose.