I usually ask participants about their main takeaways in my seminars or webinars. What would be the most critical lesson(s) they have learned? What if we were to do the same? But this time, instead of attending my leadership training or seminars, list down the things and lessons you have learned in your life. You might want to do this soulful exercise after reading this list of life lessons Andy Rooney has written.
Rooney was on CBS’s 60 Minutes TV Show and has passed away. But his words spoken then are more important now than ever! He has a knack for sharing profounding things with an economy of words. As you go through his list, do not just dismiss this as a cheesy, corny childish list. Reflect upon the same and come up with your list after.
The title is: I’ve Learnt by Andy Rooney1
I’ve learned that the best classroom in the world is at the feet of an elderly person.
I’ve learned that when you’re in love, it shows.
I’ve learned that just one person saying to me, “You’ve made my day!” makes my day.
I’ve learned that having a child fall asleep in your arms is one of the most peaceful feelings in the world.
I’ve learned that being kind is more important than being right.
I’ve learned that you should never say no to a gift from a child.
I’ve learned that I can always pray for someone when I don’t have the strength to help him in some other way.
I’ve learned that no matter how serious your life requires you to be, everyone needs a friend to act goofy with.
I’ve learned that sometimes all a person needs is a hand to hold and a heart to understand.
I’ve learned that simple walks with my father around the block on summer nights when I was a child did wonders for me as an adult.
I’ve learned that life is like a roll of toilet paper. The closer it gets to the end, the faster it goes.
I’ve learned that we should be glad God doesn’t give us everything we ask for.
I’ve learned that money doesn’t buy class.
I’ve learned that it’s those small daily happenings that make life so spectacular.
I’ve learned that under everyone’s hard shell is someone who wants to be appreciated and loved.
I’ve learned that the Lord didn’t do it all in one day. What makes me think I can?
I’ve learned that to ignore the facts does not change the facts.
I’ve learned that when you plan to get even with someone, you are only letting that person continue to hurt you.
I’ve learned that love, not time, heals all wounds.
I’ve learned that the easiest way to grow as a person is to surround myself with people smarter than I am.
I’ve learned that everyone you meet deserves to be greeted with a smile.
I’ve learned that there’s nothing sweeter than sleeping with your babies and feeling their breath on your cheeks.
I’ve learned that no one is perfect until you fall in love with them.
I’ve learned that life is tough, but I’m tougher.
I’ve learned that opportunities are never lost; someone will take the ones you miss.
I’ve learned that when you harbor bitterness, happiness will dock elsewhere.
I’ve learned that I wish I could have told my Dad that I love him one more time before he passed away.
I’ve learned that one should keep his words both soft and tender because tomorrow, he may have to eat them.
I’ve learned that a smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks.
I’ve learned that I can’t choose how I feel, but I can choose what I do about it.
I’ve learned that when your newly born grandchild holds your little finger in his little fist, that you’re hooked for life.
I’ve learned that everyone wants to live on top of the mountain, but all the happiness and growth occurs while you’re climbing it.
I’ve learned that it is best to give advice in only two circumstances; when it is requested and when it is a life-threatening situation.
I’ve learned that the less time I have to work with, the more things I get done.
Beautiful list! Now it’s your turn. Write down your list.
(Francis Kong’s podcast “Inspiring Excellence” is now available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or other podcast streaming platforms.)