Notes (Advice) to My Younger Self

This post is a result of reflections on turning seventy and as I continue the 49th year of my coaching journey. These are thoughts on what I could have done better or at least differently. They are the results of questions in the process of mentoring other coaches and raising my children. The questions usually are: What have you learned? What would do differently? Hopefully this will stimulate you to think and learn from my mistakes, missteps and an occasional success.

• Slow down you move too fast.
• You don’t always have to be right.
• Knock the chip off your shoulder.
• No one knows everythingIt is not necessary to get in the last word.
• Smile.
• Listen more, talk less.
• You don’t have to be the savior.
• It’s OK to make money, many people do not value free.
• Earn the right, pay your dues.
• Be here now – in the moment.
• The big time is not the place to be.
• It’s not a perfect world, deal with it.
• Passion needs to be handled carefully. It is like a high-octane fuel, very volatile and explosive.
• Stand up for what you believe in.
• Beware of false prophets bearing gifts.
• Tune out the naysayers.
• Forgive but don’t forget.
• Be a participant not a recipient.
• Be true to yourself.
• Don’t confuse the messenger with the message.
• Be the best YOU, you can be.