justdrew

In an interesting talk, designer Stefan Sagmeister shared a list he keeps of things he has learned in his life.

See the TedTalk video

I certainly agree with most of the things that made his list, but it strikes me that we only keep lists of things we’re still trying to learn- those we already know, it is not necessary to write down… unless we’re trying to teach someone else.

Here’s his list, though- I think it is good to make such lists of the things we haven’t yet fully grokked.

• Complaining is silly. Either act or forget.
• Thinking life will be better in the future is stupid. I have to live now.
• Being untruthful works against me.
• Helping other people helps me.
• Organizing a charity group is surprisingly easy.
• Everything I do always comes back to me.
• Drugs feel great in the beginning and become a drag later on.
• Over time I get used to everything and start taking it for granted.
• Money does not make me happy.
• Travelling alone is helpful for a new perspective on life.
• Assuming is stifling.
• Keeping a diary supports my personal development.
• Trying to look good limits my life.
• Worrying solves nothing.
• Material luxuries are best enjoyed in small doses.
• Having guts always works out for me.

I’m still working on my own list.