Chapter 1: Embracing Life's Lessons

As I approach the significant milestone of turning 40, I find myself in a contemplative mood. Sitting at a café in Warsaw, I observe the diverse range of people passing by, each absorbed in their own thoughts and routines. It's intriguing to realize that even with similar jobs, individuals can experience life in vastly different ways—some are cheerful, while others seem burdened. Understanding this phenomenon often leads back to philosophical reflections.

Here are sixteen important life lessons I would share with my 19-year-old self to maximize each day:

The path to unhappiness begins when you give too much weight to your thoughts while neglecting to take action. A disordered body can cause unnecessary stress, detracting from your true, vibrant self. To find balance, steer clear of stimulants such as cigarettes, alcohol, drugs, porn, and processed foods.

It's often more beneficial to hurt someone's feelings by being genuine than to be overly accommodating at the expense of your own self-expression. Many people may appear to be thriving at any given moment, leading to a natural inclination to compare ourselves with them. However, it’s essential to remember that we each have our unique journeys and struggles. Allow others to inspire you, but if comparisons lead to negativity, it’s time to refocus on your own path.

Deep self-reflection may seem empowering, but it can often lead to increased insecurity. Rather than fixating on yourself, concentrate on activities that positively impact others. Life becomes easier when you abandon the expectation that it should be simple. By focusing on one task at a time, you can effectively separate yourself from the crowd.

Stop stressing over finding the 'perfect' career; instead, dedicate yourself to excelling in the tasks you undertake. Build a reputation for reliability. Don't fret about whether your work is the "right" fit; what truly matters is honoring your commitments, as they define our existence.

You’re not 'different' or inferior to anyone else; we all share common human experiences—our quirks, fears, and insecurities connect us. Embrace your decisions fully, regardless of how awkward you may feel. Life’s opportunities are often masked by fear; this feeling, while uncomfortable, can guide you toward significant experiences.

Recognize the importance of pacing yourself physically. The speed of our thoughts correlates with our physical state; rushing leads to scattered thinking. Slowing down can enhance clarity and happiness.

Fear, often viewed negatively, can actually serve as a motivator. We misinterpret fear as something harmful, but it can alert us to important opportunities. For instance, if you feel anxious about public speaking, that fear signals something worth pursuing.

Trust that you possess the knowledge and instincts to navigate life's challenges. It’s easy to feel inadequate or reliant on others, but deep down, you have the resources to succeed.

Resist the contemporary notion of solely focusing on self-discovery when feeling anxious or depressed. Such feelings often arise from excessive self-focus. The key to overcoming these emotions lies in helping others. Stand tall, take ownership of your choices, and engage in actions that push you outside your comfort zone.

The first video titled "Advice to a 19-year-old me" offers insights into navigating life's challenges and emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and growth.

Chapter 2: The Wisdom of Age

Life at 40 brings a wealth of experiences and lessons learned. Reflecting on what I would convey to my 30-year-old self, I recognize the importance of embracing changes and growth.

The second video, "Life at 40: What I Would Say To My 30-Year-Old Self," explores the journey of personal growth and the insights gained through the years.