Life is an unpredictable journey filled with ups and downs, challenges and triumphs. As I’ve reached middle age, I’ve come to recognize the patterns and learned valuable lessons that have shaped my perspective. Over time, three principles have emerged that serve as my compass, guiding me to a more successful and fulfilling life. These principles have become the foundation on which I build my approach to any challenge, opportunity, or daily situation. They have brought me contentment, composure, and steady success. Here, I’d like to share these principles with you.
1. I believe that any problem solvable by money is not a true problem. The real problems are those that money cannot fix, such as health issues and matters of personal well-being.
2. Every day should be a “picnic day.” While some days present challenges that make life seem far from a picnic, it is all about perspective. Just like a rainy day at a picnic can still be enjoyable if we choose to make the best of it, we can find joy and interest even in difficult situations.
3. Every task should be driven to at least 80% completion as quickly and efficiently as possible. The remaining 20% is typically the finishing work. Those who take things too slowly or lack focus during the first stages of a task often find themselves facing additional challenges and stress, as the bulk of a task’s momentum is gained in that initial 80%.
It’s easy to be overwhelmed by life’s obstacles, but I’ve come to believe that any problem that can be resolved with money is not a real problem. In our world, the majority of challenges are transactional in nature—they can be fixed, managed, or navigated through financial means. Whether it’s an unexpected bill, a logistical headache, or even a professional setback, many issues can be mitigated if we have the resources.
The real challenges in life are those that cannot be solved with money. These are the ones that make a lasting impact on our well-being—such as health crises, deep emotional struggles, or existential dilemmas. When you understand that the majority of issues are merely inconveniences that can be addressed, you liberate yourself from the panic and anxiety that often accompany them. You are left to focus your energy on what truly matters, allowing for better decisions and a more composed approach to life’s problems.
Imagine going on a picnic—something that’s meant to be fun and relaxing—only to be surprised by rain. Many would consider it a ruined day. But what if you chose to see it as just a different kind of picnic? Instead of feeling disappointed, you could find joy in the unexpected, laugh about the weather, and still make the most of your time.
This is how I try to see every day. Life is rarely perfect, and some days are full of obstacles, tension, and discomfort. But every day can be approached with a “picnic mindset,” where even the most unexpected or challenging situations are just part of the experience. Embrace the ups and downs, take a step back, and look for ways to find joy in the midst of challenges. By making the conscious choice to see each day as an opportunity to enjoy, you’ll find that contentment and positivity flow naturally, no matter the situation.
When it comes to completing tasks, I’ve noticed a common trap: too often, people take things slowly, casually moving through each step without urgency. They find themselves weighed down by distractions, only to face panic and stress when deadlines approach. This is because the bulk of a task’s momentum lies in reaching that first 80% of completion.
My approach is to tackle any task with intense focus and drive to get it to 80% done as quickly as possible. This initial push creates momentum and removes a significant chunk of the effort required. The remaining 20%—the finishing work—is usually less intense and more about refinement. If you focus on this principle, you avoid the pitfalls of procrastination and reduce the chances of finding yourself stuck or overwhelmed.
These three principles have allowed me to maintain a sense of control over my life, even during turbulent times. By understanding that most challenges are not insurmountable, by embracing each day with positivity, and by completing tasks with focused intensity, I’ve found a sense of contentment and peace. It’s not about avoiding problems or ignoring challenges; it’s about approaching them with a mindset that enables success.
I believe these principles can help anyone foster a composed and steady mind, leading to a life filled with success, fulfillment, and true happiness.