9 Lessons + 1 Bonus Lesson of 2024

1. The comeback is greater than the setback. When a setback occurs, it feels like we've failed and our hopes dwindle. The weight of obstacles tires us and our minds are clouded with uncertainty for the future. A setback, however, will only burden you as much as you allow it. You can choose to remain stagnant and pity yourself, or take a leap of faith and seek help to get you back on your feet. Time and patience are essential to get through this rough phase. No matter how frightening the storm is, it ends eventually. This setback will end too.

2. "The best way out is always through." - Robert Frost in his poem "A Servant to Servants"

Running away from your problems is not the solution. Facing them is. In order to reach the other side, you must stay on the path that's taking you there and face the pain head-on instead of escaping and finding solace in distractions.

3. Actions speak louder than words. A person's actions reveal their intentions and character. On one hand, a person will shower you with words of affirmation and compliments, but on the other hand, they won't show up or show what they tell you. Be vigilant so no one plays with your trust and emotions. Also, practice what you preach and commit to it.

4. Money and fame are tools, not goals. They say more money, more problems. The same words can be applied to fame. That's not always the case though. The more money and fame one has, the more solutions they have and the more avenues they can explore. In an era where people are competing to sell their souls for much less, money and fame aren't the culprits. They are what YOU make of them.

5. Your integrity is your most important asset. Even if you're the richest, most famous person in the world, you're a nobody if you lack integrity.

6. Accept more. Expect less. The less you expect from others, the fewer disappointments you'll encounter. Accepting and seeing others for who they truly are will help you determine who to keep in your life and who to let go of.

7. Surround yourself with people who don't want anything from you, but they want everything for you. In a world filled with jealous, hypocritical, and competitive individuals, find the people who want to collaborate and only add more goodness to your life without draining you of your energy. Remember, you attract the energy you put out.

8. Set boundaries. Boundaries are not restrictions. They are meant to protect you, not to control others. They are set to show what you are willing to accept, not limit other people's actions. If someone does not respect your boundaries, do not engage with them.

9. It's okay if you save only one person, and that person is yourself. You may have the urge to save every poor soul out there, human or animal, but there's only one of you. Do not lose yourself trying to save others.

Bonus Lesson:

1. Fish Story - Soul (2020)
https://jareddees.com/fish-story-soul/