andy & shaya

I’ve learned in my 30 years:

• Make mistakes. Take notes. It’s the best way get better at life.
• Play the long game. Don’t let small setbacks keep you down, and don’t make a habit of distracting yourself with instant gratification.
• When you’re working under the hood of your car, don’t put anything down in the engine bay.
• Never wear your favorite shirt to the bar.
• Have goals, but don’t obsess over the future. Recognize that life is mostly about the journey. Find things to appreciate every day.
• Always keep a spare key.
• When buying a car, you’ll almost always be able to get a better deal from the bigger high volume dealerships.
• You don’t get great at running by buying running shoes. If you want to get better at something, you have to be willing to put in the effort. (h/t: Merlin Mann)
• Get a haircut before going on vacation. That’s where many of your most memorable photos in life are taken so why not look your best in them.
• An LED headlamp is just about the best $20 you can spend.
• Buy and hold. When appropriate it’s better to invest in things you know well.
• Start building your credit responsibly as soon as you turn 18.
• Always negotiate your starting salary. If done tactfully, you’ll be more respected for it.
• Learn how to say no. You’re as defined by the things you do as you are by the things you don’t. (h/t: Steve Jobs)
• Get a passport. Use it as much as you can. You’ll be glad you did.
• It’s OK to seek deals, but don’t buy cheap. For things that you use a lot, as long as you can afford it pay a little extra for the best. You’ll be happier, and it’ll last longer than the cheaper one anyway. (h/t: Marco Arment)
• Marriage is a process, not a result.