- Good friends are like gold; being a good friend is non-negotiable.
- Women have an incredible sense of smell—enough said!
- Hiding from your mistakes reveals a weak character. Real men admit their errors, apologize, and aim to make amends.
- Avoid taking photos of your private parts. Trust me, they could end up in your grandma’s Facebook feed, and that’s a nightmare waiting to happen!
- You’re not defined by your diet, car, or home. You are simply you. If you’re not feeling great, switching up your food or wheels won’t necessarily help.
- Cleanliness is attractive. Thoughtfulness is attractive. Being completely wasted? That’s just sad.
- Video games won’t turn you into a monster, but they won’t enhance your role as a son, student, or friend either. Play them wisely.
- Sleep won’t fix everything, but lack of it can create a whole new set of problems.
- Set NYTimes.com as your homepage on all devices; your brain will thank you.
- Junk food is for teens. By age 20, your body will crave real nutrition—feed it right!
- Sports boost happiness and health. Keep playing!
- Picking a life partner is your most crucial decision. Use both your heart and your head in this choice.
- If you’re second-guessing whether you can pull off a trendy outfit, you probably can’t.
- Skimping on a decent haircut is a mistake you’ll regret instantly.
- Cherish your platonic female friends; they’ll be some of the most influential people in your life. Treat them well!
- Never let your siblings down—they’re irreplaceable and often your longest friendships.
- If you feel your parents would disapprove of something, pause and think it over. Be sure you’ve answered all the questions they’d ask before proceeding with your own judgment.
- Your 20s are the perfect time to explore your risk tolerance—don’t shy away from it!
- Spend a little extra on quality shampoo and deodorant. Seriously.
- Own two crisp white shirts; you never know when a job interview or a meet-the-parents moment will pop up.
- Stock up on underwear—trust me, it will affect your laundry routine.
- If you sleep with someone, reach out the next morning, even if it’s just with an emoji. And if you think about pretending you don’t know her, picture my disappointed face.
- Remember to buy gifts for special occasions—thoughtful gestures make a huge impact. If she’s disappointed you didn’t spend enough, it’s time to reconsider.
- Strive to be the kind of boss, teacher, father, and friend that you’d want for yourself.
- Complete what you start—this applies to toothpaste tubes, fancy dinners, and promises made to others and yourself.
- Your integrity is everything; if someone claims otherwise, they’ve made my point for me.
- Technology won’t bring you joy; the connections you make with people will. Don’t confuse the two.
- If a woman tries to change you, run—unless it’s about hygiene, fitness, or nutrition, then listen up!
- Your manners reflect who you are and your upbringing—don’t embarrass us!
- Life and people will let you down, sometimes even yourself. That’s what parents are for—to help you navigate those disappointments.
- Male piercings are a trend that will fade; don’t be fooled!
- Aspirin, water, and black coffee can solve many issues—together or separately.
- When shopping with a woman, don’t say she looks good in everything; it’s a credibility killer. Instead, tell her what truly flatters her—she’ll appreciate it!
- If your friends are disrespectful, chances are you will be too. Choose wisely!
- Be nice to your parents—they won’t always be footing the bill for your ski trips.
- Respond promptly to your mom’s texts unless you want her to reconsider your phone plan.
- When it comes to shoes and suits, always prioritize quality over quantity.
- Toothbrushes don’t last forever—replace them regularly!
- Learn to swing a golf club, play pool, and cast a fishing rod; it’ll be useful later!
- Never use your size to intimidate anyone outside of a sport; if you do, I’ll send you back to caveman days!
- Drugs will drain your brain, your wallet, and introduce you to bad company. Got it?
- Smile in photos and show your good side—you never know where it might end up!
- If you get a rash or cut, snap a pic and send it to Mom—she’s the best at diagnosing from afar!
- When you come home for a home-cooked meal, good attitude is a must; these perks aren’t your birthright!
- Calling your parents just because is always a great idea.
- If you only share the good times, no one will truly know you.
- Never assume anything about someone else’s wealth, health, or happiness—we’re often wrong.
- Put the toilet seat down—no arguments, just do it!
- Your girlfriend or wife should ideally be your best friend, but living together is different from having buddies. Keep that in mind.
- The Internet is permanent; remember that every time you hit ‘send’.
- If you think you’re ready for kids but aren’t sure, start with a dog!
- No one is fully prepared for parenthood; it’s always a bit of a leap.
- It’s wise to have kids within 50 miles of a grandparent; emergencies happen!
- Always bring a small gift to house parties—it’s appreciated and remembered.
- Soon, you’ll be in a place to help those younger than you—do it generously.
- Acknowledge that you’re shaped by your upbringing and education. Be grateful to those who’ve taught you.
- Check your mail! Old-fashioned as it seems, some letters require your attention. Letting them pile up leads to unnecessary stress.
- Be the person others turn to when they need support. Those in pain seek out those with kind hearts.
Some moms long for daughters and spend years lamenting the little girls they never had. Thanks to you, I never found myself in that boat.
For more insights on parenting and personal growth, check out our other posts at this blog.
In summary, these lessons cover a range of life skills, from managing relationships and personal integrity to health and financial wisdom. Remember, the choices you make today will shape your future and the people you surround yourself with.