Valuable Life Advice from My Parents and Colleagues

Life is full of advice from those around us, from our parents to our colleagues and even random YouTube shorts. In this article, I'll share some of the most valuable pieces of advice that have shaped my perspective and helped me navigate various aspects of my life.

Spiritual HUSTLE

One of the most impactful pieces of advice I've ever received came from a YouTube short. It resonated deeply with me: "If you wanna spend without looking at the price tag, you gotta work and hustle without looking at the clock."

This advice reminds us to focus not on the immediate financial gains, but to invest in our growth and opportunities, trusting that the rewards will come in due time, regardless of the stopwatch ticking.

Patience and Preparation

My dad, though somewhat reserved, shared a simple piece of wisdom with me when I was starting my first job or attending university. He told me not to panic, reminding me that everything can be overwhelming at the beginning, but it will eventually clear up.

I've applied this advice in many situations. When I'm learning a new task or entering a new phase of my life, I remember that it's normal to feel uncertain. Asking questions and being patient always leads to better understanding and growth. Relying on others can be helpful, but ultimately, it's important to be prepared and take initiative.

Preparedness and Responsibility

Another piece of advice that has stuck with me is from a work colleague. He always said, "Never go upstairs or downstairs empty-handed." This advice encourages us to be mindful and proactive in our actions. It's about being prepared and using opportunities to our advantage.

For instance, at a temp job at a call center in my 20s, I needed stamps to send out some bills and asked an older lady for help. She offered some advice: "Your success in life will be determined by how prepared you are." This means relying on ourselves and not waiting for others to do everything for us.

Effort vs. Regret

There's a saying, "A fool and his money will soon part," which underscores the importance of being financially responsible. My father instilled in me the idea that working hard now is better than regretting later. This advice is not only about money but about making choices that lead to a fulfilling and responsible life.

Love and Wisdom from Grandfather

Grandfather Kenneth Wayne Strange, also known as "Grandpapa," taught me the most valuable lessons. He believed that the most important thing in life is to find the right partner, a "life pumpkin." His teachings echoed his 63 years of marriage, where he always knew what was important to him.

His wisdom was not always in words, but in actions. He made sure everyone was taken care of, knew what they needed, and wanted. His final words to my grandmother before he passed were, "everything is going to be okay." He faced stage 4 cancer with a smile, showing true happiness and love.

Grandfather's ability to trust and care for others, even in the face of pain and suffering, was a testament to his wisdom. He was a life-long learner and always made it a point to find the answers to life's questions through love. His life was a true example of what it means to love whoever you meet in your life, no matter how briefly.

Conclusion

From my father's advice to stay patient and prepared, to my colleague's encouragement to carry something with you, and my grandfather's insights on love and preparedness, these lessons have been a guide for me. They remind us that life is a journey of continuous learning, and the choices we make today shape our tomorrow. Let these pieces of advice inspire you to live a life filled with purpose, responsibility, and love.