40 lessons – part 2

Continuing from my previous post, here is my second set of lessons learned to celebrate my 40th birthday:

From my father: excellence in your work matters to you and those you serve with your work.
From my father: if you need to go far to learn something new, go far.
From my father: always take the time to drink your coffee.
From my father: there is peace in the quiet morning hours.
From my father: surround yourself with books – they provide inspiration.
If you’re going to wait until you are done with work, you’ll have to wait until you are retired.
There is always time for doing what you really like.
In case of doubt, take the trip.
In case of doubt, put stilettos. They won’t help you figure it out, but at least you’ll look put together while confused.
Life is too short to second-guess your choices.
Care deeply for what matters.
… and let the rest go.
Take things apart – equipment, thoughts, everything.
If you get hit by a storm, build back better.
Sing out loud.
Trust your dreams, intuition, and gut feeling. When you know, you know.
Don’t second-guess yourself. Leave that to others.
From the Dutch: you are not made of sugar.
Do an effort to put yourself in someone else’s shoes – really, imagine how it is like for them, from their perspective, and then treat them with compassion.
Practice compassion, again and again.