Why don't they teach us this in schools?

In a world full of uncertainties and challenges, it's easy to play it safe, to stick to what's comfortable, and to avoid taking risks. But remember, you are here for a purpose, and the world needs your talents now more than ever. As you embark on your journey, remember these key lessons: embrace failure, take risks, and most importantly, aspire not just to make a living, but to make a difference.

The World Needs You

You’ve invested a lot in your education, and many people have invested in you, too. The world needs your talents—desperately. We need your energy, your creativity, and your passion. As you step out into the world, remember that it’s not about how much you have, but about what you do with what you have. Whether you have money, patience, kindness, or any other gift, use it. The question is, what are you going to do with what you have?

Fail Big, Dream Big

You will never see a U-Haul behind a hearse. You can't take your possessions with you when you go. The Egyptians tried, and all they got was robbed. So, what are you going to do with the time, talent, and treasure you have? Don't be afraid to fail big. Today is the beginning of the rest of your life, and yes, it can be frightening. But do what you feel passionate about. Take chances, both professionally and personally. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box, to step outside your comfort zone, and to dream big.

But remember, dreams without goals are just dreams, and they ultimately lead to disappointment. Have dreams, but set goals—life goals, yearly goals, monthly goals, daily goals. Even simple goals, like deciding to not let negativity bring you down. To achieve your goals, you need discipline and consistency. Success comes from working hard every day, not just some days. Hard work works, and successful people are willing to work hard consistently.

Movement Isn't Progress

In today's fast-paced world of texts, tweets, and trends, remember this: just because you're doing a lot more doesn't mean you're getting a lot more done. Don't confuse movement with progress. You can run in place all day and never get anywhere. Instead, strive to make real progress every day. Set meaningful goals, stay disciplined, and maintain your focus.

The Power of Risk-Taking

Nothing in life is worthwhile unless you take risks. As Nelson Mandela said, "There is no passion to be found in playing small and settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living." If you're going to fall, fall forward. If you fail, let it be because you were striving for something great, not because you were playing it safe.

Reggie Jackson, one of the greatest baseball players of all time, struck out 2,600 times, more than anyone else in baseball history. But people remember him for his home runs, not his strikeouts. Thomas Edison conducted 1,000 failed experiments before finally inventing the light bulb on his 1,001st try. Each failure was a step closer to success. So, fall forward, embrace failure, and keep moving toward your goals.

Failure Is a Part of Success

You will fail at some point in your life. Accept it. You will lose, embarrass yourself, and struggle at something. But don’t be discouraged. If you don’t fail, you’re not even trying. To get something you've never had, you must do something you've never done. Imagine being on your deathbed, surrounded by the ghosts of your unfulfilled potential—the ideas you never acted on, the talents you didn’t use. Don’t let those ghosts haunt you. Take risks, seize opportunities, and live fully.

Be Grateful and Give Back

Always be thankful. Say "thank you" for grace, mercy, understanding, wisdom, love, kindness, and every blessing you have received. Live with gratitude and know that true desire in the heart is God’s proof to you, sent beforehand to indicate that it’s already yours. Claim it, work hard for it, and when you achieve it, reach back and help someone else. Each one, teach one.

Aspire to Make a Difference

Don't just aspire to make a living. Aspire to make a difference. The world needs people who are willing to step up, take risks, and give it their all. When you fall, fall forward. When you reach success, lift others up. And always remember: the true measure of your life is not what you acquire but the impact you have on others.