101 Life Lessons to Learn

And my goals for parenting
(in no particular order).

1.  Recognize good humans (and surround yourself with good humans).

2.  Find peace and self-love with your inner being.

3.  Practice self-care, listen to your body, and avoid burnout and negative energy. You can’t give to others if you haven’t secured your own health physically and mentally.

4.  Learn time management and fulfill your responsibilities.

5.  Own a failure, apologize when it’s deserved, and learn from your mistakes.

6.  Have your own mind and voice your opinion respectfully (and know when and when not to speak up).

7.  Learn how to converse with someone outside your wheelhouse (in an interview, social setting, or otherwise).

8.  Learn basic handy skills – homeownership, car maintenance, roadside needs, and general repairs.

9.  Travel internationally.

10. Know how to get a passport.

11.  Know how to ask for a promotion (and raise) and know when you deserve it.

12.  Know how to budget, save, and invest.

13.  Know how to build good credit.

14.  Know how to sew and alter clothing (even if it’s just to mend a small hole or popped button).

15.  Learn to cook, meal plan, and food shop.

16.  Be aware of toxic relationships. Get out and stay safe.

17.  Learn how to communicate with your partner (friend, spouse, or colleague).

18.  Treat service workers with the utmost respect.

19.  Learn how to create a cover letter, resume, and portfolio.

20.  Learn how to prepare for a job interview.

21.  Learn how to choose health insurance and navigate the healthcare system.

22.  Take your time finding the right general care physician.

23.  Learn how to pay off a loan.

24.  Register to vote and educate yourself on why it’s important to vote.

25.  Know how to handle a car accident.

26.  Know how to buy a car.

27.  Know how to buy a house.

28.  Know how to rent an apartment.

29.  Learn etiquette – socially and professionally.

30.  Learn basic survival skills:  First Aid, CPR, swimming, how to light a fire, read a compass, make smoke signals, read a map, and change a car tire (leaves of three, let it be).

31.  Be honest.

32.  You have options, take your time deciding, and if you don’t like your decision, you have options.

33.  Salary isn’t everything, but you must make a living.

34.  Be self-reliant and independent.

35.  You will never be an expert in every field - know when to ask for help and recognize when to help others.

36.  Failure is an opportunity to try again.

37.  Most of life is gray, not black or white. Appreciate that other people’s opinions matter, even if they don’t match yours.

38.  Stick up for what you believe and (safely) speak up when you see harm being said or done.

39.  Live within your means.

40.  Moral ethics matter and should come from within. If something is a struggle, seek guidance from someone you trust.

41.  Learn to speak publicly.

42.  Your straight As won’t matter in your professional career. What matters is your insight and work ethic. But good grades might get you that first big break.

43.  Travel and learn about other cultures. Your life bubble is not the norm. Meet new people. Ask questions. Seek information. Being well-rounded, educated, and aware will help you understand others and judge less.