68 Bits of Unsolicited Advice

https://kk.org/thetechnium/68-bits-of-unsolicited-advice

This is a lovely list of thoughts, advice, and possibly hard-won wisdom. I’ve heard some of these before and agree with quite strongly; others are much more illuminating. Highlights:

Learn how to learn from those you disagree with, or even offend you. See if you can find the truth in what they believe.

Don’t be afraid to ask a question that may sound stupid because 99% of the time everyone else is thinking of the same question and is too embarrassed to ask it.

Reading to your children regularly will bond you together and kickstart their imaginations.

Don’t be the smartest person in the room. Hangout with, and learn from, people smarter than yourself. Even better, find smart people who will disagree with you.

Don’t take it personally when someone turns you down. Assume they are like you: busy, occupied, distracted. Try again later. It’s amazing how often a second try works.

If you are not falling down occasionally, you are just coasting.

For every dollar you spend purchasing something substantial, expect to pay a dollar in repairs, maintenance, or disposal by the end of its life.

When crisis and disaster strike, don’t waste them. No problems, no progress.

Don’t ever respond to a solicitation or a proposal on the phone. The urgency is a disguise.