Real-Life Advice From A Real Life Lived
Let’s be honest: growing up as a young man today isn’t easy.
From falling behind in education to feeling lost in a World that doesn’t seem to want you, the challenges are real. Fewer boys are making it to university. The inclusivity practices of workplaces and services seem to forget to include males, and you’re criticised for your natural traits.
So how do you thrive in a world that’s not rooting for you?
I’ve been around long enough to know a thing or two, so here are 20 simple lessons I’ve learned—designed to help you build confidence, resilience, and purpose.
20 Life lessons for young men
1. Get off your phone
Your life isn’t in your phone. It’s happening all around you. Use your phone as a tool—not a time-waster. Try this: Put your phone away and only pick it up when you need to—calls, emails, directions. You’ll be amazed how much time you get back when you use your phone with intention.
2. Prioritise your health
Eat well. Move your body. Sleep enough. Health is wealth. I can’t stress this enough. Your body is your lifelong home—treat it with respect.
3. Be comfortable in your own skin
You’re the best at being you. Figure out what makes you feel like ‘you’. Don’t let jobs, relationships, or social pressures strip away your identity. Self-awareness is the foundation of everything.
4. Take care of your mind and spirit
Meditation, journaling, lifelong learning—these aren’t buzzwords, they’re tools for inner strength. Do something that lifts your soul. For me it’s riding motorbikes, but it could be as simple as dancing around your kitchen to your favourite song.
5. Avoid “Influencers”
If someone describes themselves as an “influencer,” run! Honestly, you don’t need that drama, ego, or noise in your life. Ask yourself: what are they really influencing?
6. Don’t chase everything
Be intentional. Not every opportunity is worth your energy. Choose wisely—you don’t want to get landed with something you’ll ultimately regret.
7. Practice money mindfulness
Before you splurge, ask: will this enrich my life in the long-term? Learn to invest, it beats impulse buying every time. That £150 designer t-shirt? It’s not worth it.
8. Value experience over stuff
Memories matter more than material things. Travel. Try new things. Spend your money on experiences that shape you and create lasting memories with the people that matter.
9. Slow down
Life isn’t a race. Pause. Breathe. Notice the small joys—they’re often the most meaningful. Appreciate the simple moments.
10. Learn the power of “no”
Learning to say “no” is a skill worth mastering. Protect your time and energy, it’s not selfish, it’s self-respect.
11. Define your own success
Forget comparison. Set your own standards and live by them. Success is personal, make it yours.
12. Be patient
Good things take time. Your journey is yours, don’t rush it, trust and enjoy the process.
13. You don’t need to be liked
Not everyone will like you. That’s okay. Be authentic. The right people will find you.
14. Let go of anger
Anger is heavy, but only on you. Learn to process it and release it. You’ll feel lighter and freer.
15. Seize the day
Yesterday’s gone. Tomorrow’s not promised. All you have is right here, right now. Make it count.
16. Keep learning
Stay curious. Life’s a classroom, never stop learning.
17. Stay open-minded
Listen. Learn. Grow. Your openness to different perspectives will make you a wiser, more rounded man.
18. Embrace opportunities
Even the scary ones. Especially the scary ones! Growth lives outside your comfort zone so say “yes” more often.
19. Accept the ups and downs
Nothing lasts forever. The highs, the lows, the good times, and the bad. They all come and go. Learn to ride the waves.
20. Enjoy life
This isn’t a dress rehearsal. Laugh. Love. Explore. You only get one shot so make it count.
Let’s talk…
Which of these lessons hit home for you? Are you working on any of them right now? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your story.
Think Can Will 