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Recently, I was feeling inspired to learn more from my friends and network. So I randomly posed a simple question on my personal Facebook page:
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received for your life or career?
The answers were remarkable, to say the least. When I was in college I learned something I’ll never forget: the fastest and most effective way to learn anything is to ask people questions and listen.
If we can learn how to be more open-minded, we will have built a durable foundation for education and success. Being open-minded simply means being aware of the many different realities and patterns of life. Understanding that the reality and lessons we attach ourselves to is only one perspective.
Being curious and willing to weave new pieces into your “reality quilt”, is the best way to grow. Not every perspective or point of view should be adopted. If something catches your attention and inspires you, then listen.
My goal when I asked that question was simple: to learn from the everyday remarkable people I’m grateful to know, and share their unique perspectives and wisdom with you.
We all know the value of listening to famous people that are full of inspiring wisdom. These people have earned the ears and respect of others by delivering consistent results.
Nevertheless, I believe everyone has an incredible story. The person sitting right next to you on the subway, the elderly lady walking her dog to the park, the young waiter at your favorite restaurant, and the mother of two at the grocery story—they can all teach us something. All we have to do is ask, and listen.
With that said, below you’ll find some of best advice this amazing group of people have ever been given.
Life and Career Advice from Everyday Remarkable Humans
“Be happy, regardless of where you are or what you’re doing. It’s a state of mind that you control, free from any outside influence. If you master that, you’ve mastered life.” – Johnny P.
“It’s not your problems that define you, but how you handle them.” – Nasim A. — Tweet this!
“The past is of no use. The future does not exist. No other time in your life exists besides this very moment.” – Azadeh J.
“If you want to be interesting, be interested.” – Aran W. (via his grandmother) — Tweet this!
“Fail fast. Stack cheddar.” – Eumir N.
“Leave your ego at the door.” – Akhil Anumolu — Tweet this!
“Start a separate savings account for weddings.” – Lindsey F.
“We judge ourselves by what we feel capable of doing, while others judge us by what we have already done.” So go do stuff! – Christopher D. (via Henry Wadsworth Longfellow)
“We are the average of the five people we spend the most time with. Health, happiness, success—it is all determined by the people you are around.” – Christopher D. (via Jim Rohn)
“No one will fight for you if you don’t fight for yourself.” – Aman Manik — Tweet this!
“Only do what you love and love what you do. Once you know your strengths, align them with your passions in life and find a career that can uniquely help you align the two. Then strap on and enjoy the ride.” – Human Z.
“Never make a decision out of fear!” – Emily Moberly
“Put 10% of every paycheck and cash gift in an interest-bearing account. It won’t be felt today, but will pave the way for a carefree retirement.” – Serah S.
“Sh*t happens for a reason. The past is the past. The future is the key.” – Shawn R.
“Keep your friends close and your guacamole closer.” – Ketan A.
“Dress for the job you want, not the job you have.” – Furheen M.
“Don’t sweat the petty stuff and don’t pet the sweaty stuff.” – Hedie J. (via George Carlin)
“Don’t judge people, always put yourself in their shoes.” – Armig S.
“When you show yourself to the world and display your talents, you naturally stir all kinds of resentment, envy, and other manifestations of insecurity… you cannot spend your life worrying about the petty feelings of others.” – Christian J (via Robert Greene)
“Never lose your beliefs, or you’ll lose yourself.” – Sharihan A.
“In life you generate the results you think you deserve.” – Goli S.
“Start your own business.” – Shadee Daneshvar
“We are not meant to live in socially acceptable boxes.” – Rita H.
“Never forget what you are, for surely the world will not. Make it your strength. Then it can never be your weakness. Armour yourself in it, and it will never be used to hurt you.” – Rezsa F. (via George R.R. Martin, Game of Thrones – Tyrion Lannister)
“You trade each day to live. What will you do today?” – Paulino B.
“In the long run, it does not matter how smart you are of if you receive those lucky breaks. The surest way to have success in your career is to set ambitious goals, work hard, and have a great attitude.” – Nick S.
“Never stop being curious. This characteristic alone has the power to invoke a high level of happiness and success. ‘Curiosity has its own reason for existing. (via Albert Einstein)'” – Sirj Goswami (via his father)
Bonus:
“Most people have no idea how much potential they have to do amazing things. One day as you’re living your life, you’re going to wake up. You’ll realize how easily you can have everything you’ve ever wanted. Never let this knowledge go.” – Arman Assadi (via his 6th grade teacher)
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So, I’ll ask you the same question: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received for your life or career?
Photo credit: Flickr — CC License
