You Are a Time Billionaire
You likely have over a billion seconds left in your life—that's 32 years. The way you lose your time is the same way you lose money: investing it badly. Spend your time on things that move you in an extremely exciting direction.
Four Principles to Guide You
1. Honor Your Time
It's fine to quit. If your time is full of "okay" things, you can't say "yes" to the incredible. Leave space for uncertainty and be ready when something amazing arrives.
2. Love Change of State
When plans change, don't try to reconstruct the past. Analyze what's possible now. Prepare yourself for the road, because the road isn't preparing for you.
3. Rely on Internal Motivation
Focus on your why, not what your parents or friends want out of you. Your life goal isn't a job title; it's the impact you want to have. Lean into the goals that make your heart sing.
4. Move Faster Than You Think
You can move 100x faster than you think. A powerful tool? Phone calls. Don't be afraid to solve problems or seize opportunities by putting pieces together directly.
Lessons from the Journey
The Power of the "One-Pager"
If you have an idea to improve things, advocate for it. A one-pager is a secret key to life: put your vision, problem, and proposal on a single page so someone can easily skim it and say "yes."
Persistence Can Pay Off
Rejection is part of the process. The third time was the charm for a dream internship at Khan Academy, which required fixing concerns and making a pitch even if it was scary. The ninth time might be the charm for the next dream.
The Genie's Second Chance
Imagine at 70, a genie sends you back to today. You have a second chance. You're in your pain-free body again, with your friends, with your family. What would you do differently? (Credit to Sal Khan, MIT 2012 commencement.)
You have that second chance. Right now.
Be powerful. Be assertive. Follow your deepest "why." And today, just
hug your friends and family a little bit harder.