I picked up an old notebook this morning. It was originally used for CFA Level III; equations fill the beginning and end of the book. In the middle are notes I took before, during, and after I left my previous job. One of the pages summarises my favourite points from Byron Wien's life lessons.

1. Find a big idea that will make an impact on the people you want to influence. If you want to be successful and live a long, stimulating life, keep yourself at risk intellectually all the time.
2. Network intensely. Luck plays a big role in life, get to know as many people as possible. Increase the surface area of your luck.
3. Read all the time. Have a point of view before you start reading and see whether the author thought you were right or wrong.
4. Evolve. Think of your life in phases to avoid burnout. Stay at risk throughout.
5. Travel extensively. Try to go everywhere before you burn out.
6. The hard way is always the right way. Never take shortcuts.
7. Don't try to be better, try to be different. There will always be someone smarter than you, but there might not be someone as imaginative.
8. There's a perfect job out there for everyone. Most people never find it. Keep looking.
9. Try something new every year that is out of your comfort zone. This will add to the essential process of self-discovery.