When I reflect on how time flies, and the experiences along the way, I’m struck with appreciation of life advice given to me at earlier stages. Lately, I’ve come to realize that influential people in my life have either modeled or voiced guidance of comparable themes. It got me to thinking and questioning whether we choose alike people to influence and mentor us, or whether people of similar thought patterns gravitate toward mentoring and advising the same people.

Either way, recognizing and drawing from certain life advice is like identifying beauty. It is in the beholder. There are the classic features we all appreciate and the unique ones we each prefer. Here are a few examples of my favorites (#’s 2, 3 and 4 are classics for sure):

•  “Trust Your Gut.” Hands down, this is one of the most applied pieces of advice I’ve received. It’s something we innately have but, as we grow more secure in our surroundings and relationships, we’re taught to let our guard down. This advice is the “checks and balances” for that growth. It’s a healthy reminder that no matter where life takes us or who we meet, we should be attuned to that inner instinct. There have been times when I have been fully aware of my “gut instinct”, ignored it, and regretted that action. There has not been one time in my life where I’ve trusted my gut and I’ve regretted it. It is for this reason that I am so appreciative of the important influencers in my life that guided me to “trust my gut”.
• “When it’s important, don’t give up.” Not only does this encourage persistence and confidence, but it rightfully presents your passions. What’s a more natural strategy in communicating your passion than pursuing it no matter the circumstance? And on the topic of passion…..
• “Work Hard.” Speaks for itself, and was voiced by so many people I admire and respect. They may not have worked 24/7 on something they were passionate about, but they prioritized the needs of their families above themselves. Work hard for a living.
• “Love Unconditionally and Forgive.” This is particularly true of our friends and family. It is the reason why we are there for each other after all the really tough times. Everyone makes mistakes…..if we were perfect, life would be so boring, wouldn’t it? This may be some of the hardest life advice to follow, but it is also the most important and most rewarding.
• “Everyone in life is dealt a hand of cards. It’s about how you play them.” As tempting as it is to feel sorry for ourselves or down about situations, it’s so much better to remember perspective. Everyone in life has challenges, advantages and disadvantages. Know the cards you were dealt, be thankful for what you have, recognize your shortcomings, do your best to improve your situation and play your cards the best you can. Personally, this was a very meaningful conversation.

Guidance in the above form may not have been provoked, it may be clichéd and at times I’ve even been tempted to showcase my signature eye rolling talent. But the truth is that advice from trusted influencers and peers is cherished, especially when it resonates individually, over time, and is voiced by more than one person.

The beauty of life advice is in the beholder, and the above is just a partial compilation of my list (which I intend to continue to grow on this blog).