Brief Debrief

Twelve Things I Have Learned In My Life So Far*

The cusp of birthdays always renders even my most jaded self a tiny bit reflective.

As I mentioned, I never conceived living this long. I didn’t have plans or goals reaching this far out. I still don’t. It’s all icing and improvisation now. Blessings versus curses.

Perhaps I can shape a little bit of my future by exploring my past a little bit. I’m thinking of starting with what I have learned to date.

What have I learned in half a century?

1. I have learned that lack of talent can be neutralized with hustle & confidence.
2. I have learned that leading is better than following.
3. I have learned that I am not always right but I am usually right.
4. I have learned that I can still make shit happen.
5. I have learned that ambition can lead to very bad choices.
6. I have learned that rules, procedures, & traditions are fungible constructs.
7. I have learned that being better beats being worse.
8. I have learned that there is value to customizing & optimizing.
9. I have learned that some people are going to love you no matter what.
10. I have learned that when it comes down to it, we’re all exactly the same.
11. I have learned that it’s never too late to learn new things.
12. I have learned that it’s really good to be king.

*not a comprehensive list but the number twelve is important to me