30 Things I Have Learned in 30 Years (written by Matt)

30. While at the time it may seem painful, having someone put a bike lock around your neck and a poll makes for a great story.

29. You will never know how much the little things you do can make a difference to somebody. Helping a little brother learn to put contacts in may not mean much to the older brother.

28. If you can’t enjoy Monday through Friday you need to find a new job/career.

27. There is nothing weirder than a group of teenagers who have an affinity for things that are orange, except possibly a group that despises green.

26. There is no way to truly understand unconditional love until you have children.

25. While at the time it may seem painful, having someone perform a blitzkrieg on you with a BB gun makes for a great story.

24. If you are fortunate enough to have the means to pursue an education, you should obtain as much as you can. You will never regret it.

23. Doing handstands over the stairwell at Taylorsville high is unbelievably stupid.

22. You can’t get promoted until there is somebody qualified to take your job. Be willing to share your knowledge with those around you.

21. Finding/making quiet time to talk with your spouse is the best investment you can make into your marriage.

20. While at the time it may seem painful, taking a rock bottom through a sheet rock table makes for a great story.

19. Everybody is struggling with something and nobody has a free ride. Because of this you should always be nicer than is necessary.

18. Be thankful for your bishop and try to cut him a break when he makes mistakes, he carries a tremendous burden.

17. New car smell is awesome

16. Rolling a soap box car with your first date on the back sure sucks at the time, but sure makes for a great story.

15. Be willing to take chances and become okay with rejection. You will be surprised at the opportunities you will be given.

14. Every new stage with children is hard and seems like the end of the world, but they do grow out of it.

13. Try to be a good home teacher. It is good for the soul to care for others.

12. I’ve never found a testimony to be built on grand experiences. Look for the subtle whisperings of the spirit.

11. It is okay to have lots of kids. It is nice to have brothers and a sister that you truly enjoy being with.

10. Don’t ask why you have to take generals when your degree is not related. College is there to teach you to think. If you only want to learn a skill, go to a trade school.

9. If you feel overwhelmed, stop, take a breath, and make a list.

8. Having a mix up with Diamond Brady may be unbelievably embarrassing, but it sure makes for a good story.

7. Spend time with your spouse and go on dates. A happy marriage is the only thing that matters in life.

6. Smile a lot. It will make you more pleasant to be around.

5. Kids adapt very well. If you stay positive, they will stay positive.

4. Look for chances to put your spouse first.

3. If you are always looking for the next opportunity it is hard to be happy where you are at.

2. Count each little hug and kiss from young children. They are limited and a precious commodity.

1. If you are lucky enough to be married to your best friend, you can handle anything (I love you Erica).