Rules for Living from my 5th Grade Teacher

Was cleaning out my desk and came across a list of fourteen principles for living I got from my 5th grade teacher. The tips are good, and, as a personal exercise, I decided to grade myself on how well I’m currently executing on each one. I challenge you to do the same.

1. Do the best with what you have. They don’t reward you for having brains - just for using them.
2. Always take the opportunity to invest in yourself.
3. Examine your life. Ask - What am I buying? Where do I want to be? How do I get there?
4. It always counts.
5. It’s not the smartest one who gets rich - it’s the one who communicates best, is reliable, well-respected, and is well-liked.
6. What you choose to do in the next 24 hours determines the story of this day. You don’t get this day back.
7. Success is getting up one more time than you are knocked down.
8. When someone tries to force his/her will on you, realize the other person is playing a game for their benefit, not yours. It’s your choice whether you join in.
9. “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.” - Eleanor Roosevelt
10. A friend who puts pressure on you is not your friend.
11. Criticize other’s ideas, not others.
12. If you don’t have a big goal, GET ONE!
13. Your true character is what you choose to do when you think no one’s watching
14. Get out of your own way