Great advice has the power to completely change the course of our lives, sometimes with a simple shift in perspective or a reminder of what truly matters. The right words at the right time can be transformative, providing the clarity and motivation we need to overcome challenges, unlock new potential, and thrive. Here, we’ve gathered some of the most impactful pieces of advice that have guided successful experts across various industries – insights that have shaped their journeys and can inspire yours!
“When I was a teenager, a motivational speaker named Clebe McClary visited my school. He was a retired U.S. Marine who had been severely wounded in the Vietnam War. He said sometimes life can get you down and make you think about giving up. If you ever reach a point where you are ready to end your life, promise yourself that you will “run yourself to death.” He went on to explain that the moment after someone jumps off a bridge, that person inevitably thinks: “You know, I oughtn’t have done that.” Too late. The moment after someone pulls a trigger, that person inevitably thinks: “You know, I oughtn’t have done that.” Too late. But if you run yourself to death, you will inevitably get tired. You’ll see a shady tree and stop to rest. When you do, you will start to think more about the situation and realise that someone loves you, someone needs you, and you have other options. There have been times in my life when I thought about giving up and recalled his advice. I’ve tried to share it with others whenever I get a chance.” Lance Loya, Author, Keynote Speaker & Coach
“Find your Niche.” 10 years ago, Dr. Vidya Nandagopal gave me this advice when I decided to become a trainer, and I will always be grateful to her!” Israa Shaheen, Etiquette and Protocol Expert
“Something that deeply transformed me both personally and professionally and really increased my self-confidence was to remember why I am doing what I am doing. What makes me choose to do what I do, what makes me engage in a relationship with someone, what makes me do a presentation and so on and so forth. When I remember that, it is so much easier to disconnect from the desire to be liked and to impress and rather, to focus on doing the best that I can in a certain situation. This takes the pressure off the need to perform and impress and helps with delivering my best in both personal and professional relationships and commitments.”
Teodora Paucean, Associate Certified Coach ICF
“From my father: “Things don’t matter. The only thing that really matters is people.”” Todd Cherches, CEO, Leadership & Executive Coach
““Don’t work in finance, if you want to be at the top level you must go into Sales.” This advice has been a guiding principle throughout my life and career. It reminds me to stay curious, open-minded, and continually seek new knowledge and experiences. It’s helped me grow both personally and professionally.” Thomas André Sola, Managing Director of APSCo Deutschland
“Talk less and listen more!” Donnacadh O’Briain, Olivier Award Winning Director, Experience Designer & Story Architect
““Treat all as you would want to be treated yourself.” Common courtesy is increasingly falling by the wayside today but a smile and a thank you don’t cost anything. Plus, people genuinely appreciate the warmth and often remember you for it too which is no bad thing in many situations.” James ‘MrConnectivity’ Williams
Whether it’s finding your niche, remembering your purpose, treating others with kindness, or listening more, these expert insights offer valuable lessons for both personal and professional growth. Advice doesn’t have to be complicated – it just has to be impactful. Which one of these pieces of advice speaks to you the most? Tell us in the comments!
What message would you give your younger self?Here are powerful messages from several remarkable experts who share their insights on what they would tell their younger selves, offering wisdom that can resonate with us all…
