Becoming a Parent

Deciding to become a parent is another pivotal moment.

Actionable Insight:

Parenting is undoubtedly challenging, but it's also incredibly rewarding. Children require both love and discipline, along with a mix of enjoyment and responsibilities. They need to learn self-control, resilience, and emotional awareness. As a parent, it's your duty to guide them in these areas. Remember, parenting skills aren’t innate; seeking educational resources—like videos, seminars on positive parenting, and literature—can enhance your capabilities.

Leveraging Free Educational Resources

Taking advantage of free education is essential for personal development.

Actionable Insight:

Continuous learning is vital for growth. While you may not qualify for free college credits, resources like libraries and YouTube can be incredibly beneficial. Consider reaching out to colleagues for skill development or hiring a budget-friendly college student for tutoring.

Finding Fulfillment at Work

Accepting a position with my current employer was a transformative decision.

Actionable Insight:

Being content at work is non-negotiable since you spend a significant amount of your time there. Dream jobs may be a myth, as most roles can become monotonous. It's essential to take an active role in your workplace—engage with colleagues, participate in committees, and maintain a positive attitude.

Breaking Harmful Habits

Quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption were critical steps for my health.

Actionable Insight:

If you smoke, it's imperative to quit immediately. For those who drink, consider cutting back or abstaining altogether. Identify and work on overcoming any bad habits. Keeping a journal can help track your feelings and triggers, while daily checklists can assist in fostering positive habits. The next time you feel tempted, drink water and take a brief walk to reset your mindset.

Embracing Non-Fiction Literature

Reading extensively, especially non-fiction, has greatly enriched my life.

Actionable Insight:

Aim to read at least one non-fiction book each week. If you're already a reader, try swapping out a fiction title for a non-fiction one on a subject that piques your interest. Once you grow to enjoy non-fiction, broaden your reading to include a variety of topics. For recommendations, check out my Sunday Books & Booze article.

Choosing to Adopt Pets

Opting to adopt pets has been a rewarding decision.

Actionable Insight:

Adopting animals is far more beneficial for them, your family, and the community than purchasing. Volunteering at a shelter can be a poignant and fulfilling experience. Consider donating to local shelters, whether financially or with goods like food and blankets. When looking for a pet, consider rescuing one; many breed-specific rescues are available if you have a particular breed in mind.

Understanding Personal Finance

I learned the hard way about the importance of maintaining good credit.

Actionable Insight:

Avoid damaging your credit and invest time in understanding personal finance. Familiarize yourself with how credit functions, the principles of saving and investing, and the pathways to financial freedom. There are numerous resources available to educate yourself—take the initiative to learn.

Establishing an Online Presence

Building an online presence has become increasingly important.

Actionable Insight:

Develop a consistent online persona that resonates with you. Identify the platform where your target audience is active, be it LinkedIn, Instagram, or Facebook. Create a unique profile, post regularly, and engage with your community. Consistency is essential for success.

The first video titled "How to Make Difficult Decisions (without overthinking)" offers insights into navigating tough choices with clarity and confidence.

The second video, "Making Important Decisions SEL Lesson (gr 3-5)," provides a valuable perspective on decision-making skills for younger audiences.