A hands-on approach to life is more desirable than 'wisdom by teaching'. Through trial and error, I have established certain non-rigid rules for how I conduct my affairs. These are a few of the generic ones:
- Live each day with a sense of purpose
- Be kind to someone
- Smile at strangers
The more specific ones have practical reasons. Travel, for instance:
- Pack half as much as you think you need and carry twice as much money
- Never check-in luggage (I'm planning an overseas trip, carrying just my passport, cash and cards, basic toiletries and one t-shirt… all in the pockets of my jacket). This has worked really well for me - the stress saved during travel, ease of movement, avoiding inquisitive customs and time saved in packing and waiting for baggage.
- No itinerary, just a couple of suggestions from locals. Random walks are the best way to explore new places.
Rules complicate life. I prefer heuristics. That way, if I do pack excess luggage and meticulously plan a trip, there is no guilt! It's the way of ancient wisdom.