Today I turn 30.

Because of that, this newsletter is different than usual.

I want to reflect on the past 30 years.

And if I can inspire one person by sharing this, I’ve done my job.

30 Lessons I’ve Learned Over the Past 30 Years

1. Live your life, not someone else’s. Always do what’s best for you, because you’re the one living it.

2. You can only control what you can control. Let go of the rest—don’t waste energy on things outside your control.

3. Optimism beats pessimism, every time. Choose to see the possibilities over the pitfalls.

4. Confidence is the most underrated skill there is. Believe in yourself, and the world will follow.

5. Act like you belong, and you will. Everyone is figuring it out as they go.

6. Never stop learning. Act with extreme curiosity—it’ll make you unstoppable.

7. Treat others with empathy. You never know the battles they’re fighting.

8. Seek forgiveness, not approval. Don’t wait for permission to pursue what you believe in.

9. Appreciate and acknowledge others. Give credit where it’s due, it costs nothing but means everything.

10. Solve your own problems. Look within before looking outward; you’re stronger than you think.

11. Value advice, but chart your own course. Take insights from others, but don’t let them steer your ship.

12. Be the “Jacked Intellect.” Stand out by being authentically you—break clichés.

13. Be grateful for every day. Life is unpredictable. Gratitude makes every moment count.

14. Luck is created, not given. Hard work and seizing opportunities invite luck to your door.

15. Your health is your wealth. Exercise, eat well, and prioritize feeling good.

16. Say “no” more than you say “yes.” Protect your time and energy for what truly matters.

17. Have fun. Life’s too short to not enjoy the ride. Say yes to adventures and experiences.

18. The compound effect is real. Small, consistent actions lead to extraordinary results over time.

19. Writing clarifies the mind. It’s the most powerful tool for self-awareness and clarity.

20. Self-awareness is a superpower. Know yourself better than anyone else does.

21. Mindset is everything. With the right mindset, you can become who you want to be.

22. Happiness, fulfillment, and purpose are the real trophies. Titles and accolades don’t fill the void.

23. Your lifelong partner is your greatest gift. Together, you can conquer anything.

24. Act now—don’t wait for the “perfect” moment. Have a bias towards action, even if it feels risky.

25. Giving is more fulfilling than receiving. Share what you can; it enriches your soul.

26. Comfort doesn’t equal safety. Don’t confuse the two; seek growth beyond your comfort zone.

27. Do more of what energizes you. Identify and eliminate energy drains.

28. Find your Ikigai. Align what you love, what you’re good at, what you can be paid for, and what the world needs. This intersection is your calling.

29. Start a business, no matter what. The journey and lessons learned will transform you in unexpected ways.

30. Cherish the process over the outcome. It’s the journey, the learning, and the growth that make it all worthwhile.

These lessons have shaped me over the past 30 years.

But I’m curious—which one resonates with you the most?

I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Take a moment to reflect. If even one of these insights sparks a change in your life, then sharing them has been worth it.

When you’re ready for more, here’s how I can help.

Mindset Jujitsu.

As always, I love to chat with you guys! Reply back to this email or DM me on X (@markfrommktg) with any questions, feedback, or to simply kick it.

Thanks for being here.

Talk soon,

Mark