If you’re not familiar with Tim Minchin, then you are seriously missing out on some awesome comedy. In 2013, however, this famous comedian was called upon do something a little different. He was asked to write a commencement speech for those who were graduating from the University of Western Australia. For this speech, he taught the students 9 life lessons…
Rule One
It’s okay not to have a dream. Simply focus on the now and see what happens when you pursue short-term goals. You might surprise yourself with where you end up.
Rule Two
Stop focusing on your own happiness. Try and make others happy, and your own happiness may be a by-product of this.
Rule Three
Remember just how lucky you are. You are alive, you are healthy, and you have a whole life to live. Don’t ever forget that, and make the most of what you have been gifted with.
Rule Four
Although you may not enjoy it, try and incorporate exercise into your life. It will keep you mentally and physically in shape.
Rule Five
Identify your beliefs and your thoughts on the world. Be hard on yourself, and make sure you are using these thoughts in intellectual debate.
Rule Six
Teach. Become a teacher, even if this is not in the traditional sense. Inspire others to expand their minds, or just teach them something about the world they didn’t know before. Share the knowledge.
Rule Seven
Acknowledge what you love, and define yourself by these things. It’s easy to define yourself by calling out negative thoughts and beliefs, so try not to do this.
Rule Eight
Respect everyone, no matter their class or their place in the world. Everyone is a human being, and everyone should be treated as such. Be wary of those who do not treat everyone equally.
Rule Nine
Don’t rush. We can often feel as though we’re in a rush to get our life in order, but that doesn’t always work. Take your time, and allow yourself to ride each wave of life. Don’t wish your life away, because you’ll miss out on the good stuff.
Of course, Tim Minchin delivered these incredible life lessons in a comedic way, and this made the lessons seem even more achievable. You, like everyone else, should be focusing on these nine simple rules.