Reflections at 48—Life Lessons I'd Share with My 18-Year-Old Self

In today's special episode, we celebrate another trip around the sun as I turn 48. It's the perfect moment to reflect on the experiences and lessons learned—wisdom I'd share with my 18-year-old self.Here are some key reflections:📌 Studying Isn't Always Directly Linked to Your CareerI studied computer science but ended up in a field unrelated to my degree. I used to believe that what you study doesn't determine your career (except in specific or vocational fields). However, now that I have teenagers deciding on their own paths, I realize how much my education has helped shape my professional journey.📌 Friends Define YouYou can't choose your family, but you can choose your friends. They profoundly influence your past, present, and future, often in ways you don't recognize until you gain some perspective.📌 Choose a Job That Motivates YouSkills can be learned, trained, or improved, but motivation is innate and acts as a multiplier of success in your work and life.📌 An International Experience Should Be MandatoryNot for the money, the résumé, or to boast, but to grow as a person and expand your mind. In my case, it happened when I was very young, and without a doubt, it marked my career.📌 **If You Develop One Skill, Let It Be CommunicationLearn to speak, present, tell stories, persuade, and teach. There are millions of brilliant minds, but few can convince and involve others. Over time, you'll become more aware that you can go far alone, but accompanied, you can go anywhere. Of course, to be accompanied, you need a team, people, and friends.📌 Find Time for Everything (Personal and Professional)It's easy to give advice in hindsight, and from experience, I can say that not everything is about work. I've missed many family moments. I'm not proud of it, but if there's one point to take away, let it be this one.📌 Give Your All in Whatever You're DoingDon't do things halfway. That's why it's important to choose what motivates you. That way, you'll enjoy it and return each day wanting more. But when you do, make mistakes, learn, and be willing to make mistakes again.📌 Do Everything with a Smile on Your FaceThere's no better way to achieve things than with a gesture of kindness and a smile. You can't imagine the power of non-verbal language and the emotional connection you generate.And now, here's to another year that promises to be "entertaining," just like all the previous ones!Join me as I delve deeper into these reflections and share stories that have shaped who I am today.#Celebration #Experiences #LifeLessons #Study #Friends #Motivation #Success #InternationalExperience #Communication #FindTime #Smile #LetsTalkAbout #Reflections 🎙️✨ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit carlosgarijo.substack.com