Wisdom for Graduates

“By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; Second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest.” ― Confucius

Congratulations on earning that degree. Now what? Here is some common sense wisdom they don’t teach you in school. It’s better to learn these ideas now than by the “school of hard knocks”.

Work Hard

A good old-fashioned work ethic is just as necessary today as it was 30 years ago, and in this job environment, the people who work the hardest get the promotions.

Know Thyself

Like an architect drafting a new house plan, consider what you want your life to look like and live accordingly. Otherwise, you will wake up and realize you have been living somebody else’s idea of what your life should be.

Find a Job you Love

If you are unhappy at work, you will never work as hard as you have to in order to be successful.  To the people who are passionate about their jobs, it’s not really work.

Build a Moat Around Your Castle

Have an emergency fund for rainy days. Protect your means to support your family. You may feel invincible now, but things can change in a hurry.

Live Below Your Means

Spend less than you make.  You may not realize it yet, but more stuff does not make you happy. Instead of wanting what you don’t have, want what you do have. Don’t run up your credit cards to buy more things that won’t mean a hill of beans a year from now.

Save, Save, Save

When it comes to investing, the sooner you start, the less you will have to save. As a general rule, save at least fifteen percent of your income. Fund that Roth IRA or 401K every year!

Do Your Best, But Don’t Attach Yourself to the Outcome of Your Efforts

Reaching a goal will make you happy only for a short time. It really is the journey that brings life satisfaction! Continually learn and challenge yourself. Nobody said it better than Constantine P. Cavafy in his poem Journey to Ithaca: