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A reader in Africa writes: "I'm Christian, a 15-year-old student from Ghana. I started reading self-development books this year in order to get a firm foundation before it's too late. Do you have any advice you could give to your 15-year-old self?"
This is what I told him:
This is what I told him:
It's good that you are reading self-development books at such a young age. Don't limit your reading to just self-development, though -- read poetry and journalism and travel narratives and novels and plays and spiritual texts and other kinds of writing too. 1/7
Keep a "commonplace book," where you can record the best ideas you find -- and use it your whole life, as an intellectual conversation with yourself, and with the authors you read. 2/7
Beyond that, remember to enjoy your life, since one's pursuits need not consist entirely of planning for the future. While you are young, embrace the joy of being young -- of friendship and physical endeavor and tolerance and curiosity. 3/7
Respect everyone, regardless of age, especially women and girls (who young men often forget to turn to for wisdom), as there is much to be learned from all kinds of interactions and relationships. 4/7
Know that your future self will be wise and well-traveled in ways that you are not, so be patient in becoming yourself. Appreciate the small things, from sunrises to family relationships to a good meal and a full stomach. 5/7
Know that life is not all that long. Before you know it you will be 30, twice the age you are now, and 50 (the same age that I am now), and then 70, and eventually you will be gone from the earth. 6/7
Make each chapter of your life count. Learn from all of your mistakes (there will be many). Practice kindness and generosity and forgiveness to those around you, and to yourself. And be grateful for each day of life you have. 7/7
