31 Life Lessons That Made Me a Better Leader (and Person)

Every once in a while, I come across a piece of content that sticks with me, not because it’s flashy, but because it’s true.

I recently watched a video that listed 31 life lessons, and I couldn’t help but nod in agreement. These weren’t groundbreaking ideas, but they were honest and relatable.

So I decided to reflect on them myself: adding in what I’ve learned through leading teams, raising a family, and navigating modern life with all its complexity.

Photo by Shane Rounce on Unsplash

Here they are (and it fits posting this on the 31st of July): 31 simple truths that have helped me lead better, live more intentionally, and let things that don’t matter go.

1. Energy matters more than time

You can have all the time in the world, but without energy, it’s useless (as I wrote in this article). Focus on protecting your energy: through sleep, boundaries, movement, …

That’s what fuels real productivity.

2. Don’t waste time on small decisions

Not every choice needs a pros and cons list. If it’s reversible or low-stakes, just decide and move on. Save your brainpower for what truly matters.

3. A little extra grooming goes a long way

Taking care of yourself helps your confidence and signals to others that you show up with intention. Small habits (like flossing or skincare) compound.

4. Cherish the time before major responsibilities

If you’re not drowning in obligations yet, don’t take that time for granted. Use it to build, grow, and explore. Don’t sleepwalk through it.

5. Big decisions usually aren’t

What seems huge in the moment often looks minor in hindsight.

Don’t paralyze yourself.

When in doubt, act.

6. You don’t need new stuff

Contentment is underrated. Most “upgrades” don’t change much, especially not your satisfaction. Use what you have. Wear it out.

7. If you enjoy something, do it

Not everything needs to be monetized or productive. Hobbies are worth it just because they bring joy. That’s reason enough.

8. Ask people to hang out

It feels vulnerable, but do it. Most people want connection. The strongest friendships are often built one casual meetup at a time.

9. You don’t have to optimize everything

Life isn’t a math problem. Don’t lose yourself trying to automate every chore. Do the dishes. Wait in line. Be human.

10. Minimalism isn’t the goal - contentment is

You don’t have to throw out all your stuff to live intentionally (like toxic minimalism preaches). If your things bring you peace, that’s enough.

11. Don’t travel just to travel

Seeing the world is great. But so is staying home. Don’t feel like you need to collect passport stamps to have a meaningful life.

12. Sleep is better than stimulants

Coffee is great. And yes, I love it too. But nothing beats real rest. Sleep is the foundation. You can’t lead well if you’re chronically tired.

13. Nothing good happens after midnight

The later it gets, the lower the return (sometimes already at 3 PM). Whether it’s work, play, or doomscrolling: cut it off and go to bed.

14. Find exercise that feels like play

I’ve tried lots of workouts, but I’ve only stuck with the ones I enjoyed (running). Fitness doesn’t have to be punishment.

15. Stopping is sometimes harder than starting

Anyone can start something. But knowing when to stop - whether it’s a project or a habit - takes wisdom.

16. Life is a series of experiments

Thinking about a big change?

Try prototyping (see Design Your Life methodology): try it for 30 days.

You’ll either love it or learn something. Both are wins.

17. There are no rules

You don’t have to follow the traditional path. Build your own timeline, your own version of success. That’s freedom.

18. You don’t need an opinion about everything

You’re allowed to say “I don’t know.” Leaders who do that earn more trust, not less.

19. You don’t need to stay informed about everything

You can’t carry the weight of the world. Choose where your attention goes. Focus doesn’t make you selfish. It makes you effective.

20. Changing your mind is a sign of growth

We reward stubbornness too much. Being open to new evidence or perspectives?

That’s real strength.

21. Take care of your feet

This sounds simple, but bad shoes will catch up with you. Invest in comfort. You’ll thank yourself later.

22. Ignore fashion, or don’t

Style is personal. If you like trends, follow them. If you’ve found your uniform, stick with it. Neither choice matters much.

23. Get off social media

Scrolling eats your time and chips away at your confidence. Delete it, or at least limit it. Your brain will feel clearer.

24. Go for walks

Walking solves so many problems: stress, brain fog, creative blocks. For me personally, this is more true with going for a run: I’ve never regretted a run.

25. Buy once, cry once

For things that matter (tools, shoes, gear, …), buy quality. You’ll save money and frustration long-term.

26. Go deep

Mastery takes time. Pick something (craft, leadership, art, …) and stick with it.

Depth beats dabbling.

27. If you want kids, don’t wait forever

Timing matters. If you know parenting is part of your path, make space for it. It’s hard, but definitely worth it. And if you have kids: be present.

28. Apologize

It doesn’t mean you’re wrong. It just means you value the relationship. I’ve never regretted saying “I’m sorry.”

29. Always get in the water

Ocean, lake, cold plunge: whatever it is, jump in. It wakes you up. It reminds you you’re alive.

30. Popular ≠ good

Don’t trust the algorithm. Great stuff is often hidden. Ask people you trust for recommendations. Go off the beaten path.

31. Start lots of books, finish few

Reading isn’t a race. If a book doesn’t speak to you, let it go.

Life’s too short to finish books you don’t enjoy.