As an old dog in the game with several gray hairs, I’m often asked: “What advice would you give to your younger self?”
And it got me thinking…
Which younger self would I tell?
The kid who came to America and was placed in ESL classes and diagnosed with ADD?
The awkward, flabby teenager who was terrified to ask a girl to the prom?
The young entrepreneur hosting these weird boot camp workouts at the park?
Just as fast as it took me to think back to those memories, a flood of advice came crashing down.
HERE’S THE LIFE ADVICE I’D GIVE MYSELF WITH YOU:
- START FAILING SOONER
I wish someone had told me that failure is tuition for success. Every embarrassing moment, business that didn’t work, rejection is part of the process. The sooner you start collecting those lessons, the sooner you start winning.
- FITNESS IS A GATEWAY DRUG TO A BETTER LIFE
Like most men I started working out to become a ‘pectoral papi’ and impress the opposite sex. But looking back, I realize that fitness is about building discipline, confidence, and mental toughness. And that carries over into every area of your life.
- BE MINDFUL OF WHO YOU SURROUND YOURSELF WITH
Show me your friends and I’ll show you your future. The people you spend time with will either elevate you or drag you down. There’s no in-between.
- DO THE OPPOSITE OF WHAT EVERYONE ELSE IS DOING
If everyone is zigging, you zag. The crowd is usually wrong about what leads to success, happiness, and fulfillment. The unconventional path usually leads to extraordinary results.
- A BIG FACTOR IN YOUR SUCCESS IS WHO YOU DECIDE TO MARRY
Your spouse will either be your greatest asset or your biggest liability. Choose someone who believes in your vision, supports your growth, and challenges you to be better.
- YOU’RE ONE DECISION AWAY FROM EVERYTHING YOU’VE EVER WANTED
Stop waiting for perfect timing, perfect conditions, or perfect knowledge. The right decision made with imperfect information beats the perfect decision made too late. Take action.
- DON’T BE AN ASSHOLE. YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT OTHERS ARE GOING THROUGH
Success without character is just sophisticated failure. Treat people with respect and kindness. Help others when you can. Your reputation is built one interaction at a time.
You’ll never have a chance to share this with your younger self…
But I firmly believe that you have a second chance to share these lessons with your kids.
Take the lessons you learned growing up – both the hard way and the easy way – and apply them to fatherhood.
Guide your son or daughter with the wisdom you wish you’d had at their age.
You’ll be surprised just how much you’ll make that younger you proud.
Talk soon,
Bedros
P.S. If you want to create these kinds of meaningful lessons and memories with your son, then check out the Squire Program. There are a few more classes this year and the next Squire Class in Washington is coming up soon.
It’s designed specifically for fathers who want to pass on life wisdom to their sons in an unforgettable way.
Check to see if there’s spots left for one in your area here. >>>