Atlanta-based CEO, author, husband, and father John Coleman shared 43 life lessons as he celebrated his 43rd birthday. Distributed through his newsletter, “On Purpose,” these insights touch on various aspects of life, including career, relationships, parenting, family, and wellness. Coleman believes in the importance of general principles while recognizing that every rule has exceptions, advocating for judgment in such cases. He emphasizes the significance of treating others with dignity and respect, suggesting that burning bridges should be a rare occurrence.
Coleman emphasizes the power of unconditional love over conditional love, stating that it is easier to love unconditionally than to set conditions. He highlights the concept of forgiveness, encouraging individuals to forgive themselves and others for past mistakes. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of allowing people to change and learning from everyone we encounter. Coleman believes in finding purpose in life through various avenues, recognizing that purpose is plural and changes over time.
The CEO stresses the significance of hard work, reliability, and showing up on time. He advocates for acquiring experiences over material possessions, fostering strong connections with children, and developing good habits regarding exercise and eating. Coleman encourages individuals to live a life of service, approach challenges with curiosity and grace, and acknowledge the imperfection of our understanding of truth. He also emphasized the importance of mental focus, reading, and regular digital sabbaticals.
In his list of life lessons, Coleman recommends practicing kindness, embracing boredom, and striving to be better every day. He encourages individuals to prioritize love as a choice rather than a feeling, celebrate the successes of others, and give generously. Additionally, he stresses the importance of finding mentors, journaling memorable moments, and cultivating a strong relationship with God. Coleman concludes by emphasizing the transformative power of love in creating happiness and fulfillment in life.
Coleman acknowledges that his list of life lessons may evolve over time but encourages others to share their own wisdom. He believes in the value of continuous growth and learning, recognizing the importance of personal development and self-reflection. Through his insights, Coleman offers a roadmap for navigating the complexities of life, emphasizing the significance of love, service, and purpose in achieving lasting happiness and fulfillment.
