Common Sense Class

Each of us has been given a life to live. During that span of existence, we must pass through various experiences and lessons—some sought, others thrust upon us. There are certain experiences that we refuse to believe are real until we've faced them ourselves. To spare you some of those regrets—the "if only I'd known sooner" kind—let me share a few things.

There's no point trying to change someone. It only annoys them. Better to change yourself in such a way that they no longer bother you. Better still to keep your distance from them. Whatever they do, what's it to you?

I know that eating is easy; burning off the extra calories that follow is hard. But eat what you want anyway. No one can predict when or how we'll die. Dying well-fed seems a happier way to go than dying hungry.

People prefer those who don't need many words of explanation. So when you speak with someone, first understand what they really want. Drop the preamble and go straight to the point. Your work will get done, and they'll feel comfortable talking with you too.

Don't suddenly demand someone's time. Whoever doesn't know you won't give it to you without reason. You wouldn't either. Unless, of course, both of you happen to have boundless leisure.

Most of the suffering we experience in life is necessary for us. Without pain, no one truly understands life. Every lesson that comes after hardship changes us deeply. It alters how we look at life itself. No one becomes a person without being knocked down. This is essential.

The more time you waste chasing unnecessary things, the more life will torment you. Those who quickly learn to recognize what truly matters move ahead of the rest. Don't keep company with those who find joy in wasting time on trivialities.

Spend time with those from whom you can learn—or if companionship isn't possible, at least talk with them. Do whatever it takes. Time spent with someone from whom you can learn nothing is time wasted. Unless, of course, they're a close friend or loved one.

If you truly wish to learn, you must forget what you already know. Our experience and beliefs often prevent us from learning something new. If you cling to what you know, your mind will resist taking in anything more. One of the most precious lessons I've learned is this: Unlearn to learn.