Inspired by LinkedIn’s “If I were 22…” influencers series, I thought I’d write my own, so here goes.
If I knew then what I know now, what would I do different?
Most people are genuinely not interested in my well-being. The sharks, predators and corporations that have no soul exist and I’d rather leave them to deal with one another. I would surround myself with good people, positive influences and mentors that teach empathy, open-mindedness and flexibility.
What 22-year old Charles would have liked to know is that there are good people out there, but they are very hard to find. Do not give people the benefit of the doubt. I’d watch my back, because no one else will and the naive get eaten alive, quickly. The skill sets I want at 22 are not taught in the board room, but on the street.
What I would have wanted to know at 22 is that life is not about the money, at least not only about money. Find a mentor that cares who I am, a sounding board to express what I want and help me understand what I need. A relationship to share my dreams and my fears.
I would have liked to have known where I was, where I wanted to go – Charles, at 22, wishes I had a better road map to get where I wanted to go. I would have clear priorities, organized and simplified my life, understanding the difference in “more, more, more” and “less is more” and the beauty of *simplicity*.
On spirituality: Find your dharma, God’s will or whatever path you choose, but don’t point fingers. Remember the Golden Rule, “treat others like you want to be treated.”
On relationships: Show up, all the time.
On Health: Your Temple determines your quality of life.
On Money: Spend less than you make.
On Travel: Just do it.
On Plurality: it’s a fact, learn from it.
On First Impressions: Like it or not, you only get one.
On Style: express how you want others to perceive you.
On empathy: understand the difference in empathy and sympathy.
On Integrity: it’s all you’ve got.
If I were 22, I’d be a hero to those less fortunate than me, care a bit more and talk a bit less. If I were 22, I’d check my ego at the door, journal and simplify life. If I was 22, I’d ask questions, especially the important ones that start with “Why.” If I were 22, I would not accept “that’s just the way things are” and go on with life.
“Mindful Monday” Produced by: Charles Kochel, Wealth Advisor at Yield Wealth.
No Harm 
One thought on “If I were 22…”