re: Things I should know for the future?

Fluffy advice:

Do what makes you happy and do it for you. It is never to late to make a change and there is no substitute for true happiness. Life's to short to be unhappy and its to diverse to be miserable. Always tip and be nice. You never know when your kindness and generosity will come back to you.

Practical:

Never put money on a credit card you cannot pay off. Never go into debt if you're the least bit unsure about the payoff.

Educational:

Go to class, study, and make good grades because, while none of your grades matter in the long run, they sure make that run in life a hell of alot easier.

My favorite:

Hobbies are a necessity in life. Many hobbies, such as cooking, rebuilding a car, and handyman DIY activities are not only fun but can be extremely useful in life.



The most important advice my dad gave me:

Golf is a minimum four hour activity sanctioned by the business world where you can leave your office at noon, drink during the day without judgement, get to know your boss and your clients better than anyone else, and not catch too much grief from the wife for doing.

When you ever do leave a job...and yes you will leave many over a career...never burn bridges with that company or former co-workers. It can and will come back and haunt you in future years. Best to keep your mouth shut if it was not a pleasant experience ....just move forward and don't look back.

Don't burn bridges with anyone, ever.

And don't explode M-80's in your pocket for beer money.

This, too, shall pass.