Do not tolerate, but also do not attack idiots, bullies, or slackers. They are merely overcome with forces we all share to a greater or lesser extent.

When you are chronically late to class or some other appointment, you are telling someone that your time is more important than theirs. Mostly, that will not be your intention.

Recognize and avoid toxic people. They will use you to rationalize their unhealthy behavior.

Don't accept a new commitment casually. Learn to say no with aplomb and conviction.

Most people are doing the best they know how. So, respect each person's struggle and if possible, do what you can to help out, even if it's just a wink and a smile.

Be clear about what needs to get done today, and just do it.

Cynical people are less damaging when drinking; they don't work so hard to justify their own lack of faith (in anything). So drink with a mob of cynics, just don't let them erode your own convictions with their unending store of doubt.

Do not engage conspiracy zealots, denialists, or fundamentalists -- absolutists of any kind -- they do not engage with honesty and they do not seek honest debate.

We could obsess over the Red Sox collapse, or, we could celebrate the persistence and ultimate success of the Rays. Focus on misery or joy -- it's a choice you make.

Accept that you will not always excel. By the same token, do not excuse your failings. They make you a person, a human being. You push against them to grow upward.

You don't so much need a plan for most goals as you need a clear image that you can summon to be reminded of your path.

Watch for people who do something well that you want to do. Observe how they perform and take the best parts.

Are you Sisyphus' boulder? While Sisyphus repeats his trial each day, you witness his increasing agony with each rotation. In the end, you merely roll back to start.

In most things, trust your intuition.

Think more about the person you want to become than the person you are today.

Do not deny yourself rich experiences out of fear.

Taking care of business first makes free time so much sweeter.

Sometimes "Bite me" is the right response.

Find out for yourself.

Sometimes, all that's lacking is someone to break the ice.

Start strong, and be ready to change your habits when they conflict with what you need to get done.