Ten Life Lessons I Wish I Knew at Seventeen

Adam from Paste Eaters Blog

Jun 24, 2024

In a heartfelt letter to a graduating student, an educator reflects on ten life lessons he wishes he had known at seventeen, offering guidance for navigating the complexities of adulthood.

1. Befriend Closed Doors

Life often presents more closed doors than open ones. Embracing these closures can lead to unexpected paths and opportunities. Instead of lamenting missed chances, consider that the current situation might be the best possible outcome.

2. Be Comfortable with 'No'

Rejection is a natural part of life. Applying for opportunities without fear of refusal can lead to growth. Collecting rejection letters alongside acceptance letters serves as a reminder that perseverance is key, and sometimes, a single 'yes' can change everything.

3. Journal Daily

Regular journaling captures personal growth and evolving perspectives. Documenting daily experiences allows for reflection and a tangible record of one's journey, highlighting how much can change over time.

4. Complete a Cookbook

Cooking offers immediate feedback and teaches resilience. By committing to a cookbook, one learns about flavors, the value of preparation, and the satisfaction of creating something tangible.

5. Pack Extra Shoelaces

This lesson underscores the importance of preparedness. Small items, like shoelaces, can become crucial when they fail. Being prepared for minor mishaps prevents them from becoming major issues.

6. Use Checklists

Checklists are invaluable tools for organization. They compensate for human forgetfulness and ensure that essential tasks and items are not overlooked, especially during critical moments.

7. Practice Gratitude Before Complaining

Focusing on positive aspects before voicing complaints can shift one's perspective. Regular expressions of gratitude can diminish the weight of daily frustrations and promote a more balanced outlook.

8. Change Perspectives

When faced with challenges, altering one's viewpoint can lead to solutions. Much like rotating a puzzle to find a missing piece, looking at problems from different angles can provide clarity.

9. Take Walks and Appreciate the Mundane

Walking fosters contemplation and appreciation for everyday beauty. Observing and valuing the ordinary can lead to profound insights and a deeper connection to the world.

10. Never Leave the House Without a Book

Carrying a book ensures that idle moments are filled with meaningful engagement. Reading not only provides knowledge but also opens doors to new perspectives and ideas.

The educator concludes by acknowledging that while he once aimed to live without regrets, life's experiences have taught him otherwise. He emphasizes the importance of embracing both love and loss, understanding that growth often comes from silence and reflection. He encourages the graduate to listen to advice, embrace failures as learning opportunities, and recognize that one doesn't need to be deemed "important" by societal standards to make a significant impact on the world.

These lessons serve as a guide for young individuals stepping into adulthood, reminding them to remain open to experiences, learn from setbacks, and appreciate the journey ahead.

Original Article

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Prepared with the assistance of AI software

OpenAI. (2025). ChatGPT (4) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com