Advice I Wish Someone Gave Me When I Was Broke

In his 20s, the speaker faced chronic financial struggles, poor relationships, and a cycle of bad decisions that deepened his challenges. Reflecting on this period marked by internal criticism before sleep each night, he contrasts it with later achievements: writing 12 best-selling books, building eight-figure companies, and acquiring nearly $100 million in real estate. He shares brutally honest advice aimed at helping his younger self break free from these patterns to achieve success.

After college, the allure of an expensive apartment led to financial ruin as living beyond means resulted in debt and eviction. Forced into a van purchased with help from his father, this shift revealed the benefits of frugality—lower expenses allowed for savings and bill payments, breaking free from paycheck-to-paycheck stress. The realization that material possessions often trap individuals in pursuit of superficial success became clear. Transitioning to a shared low-cost apartment further enabled saving money which later funded entrepreneurial ventures. Embracing modest living early on builds a strong foundation for future opportunities.

In your younger years, focus on self-improvement rather than seeking romantic relationships. You attract what you are, and if you're not yet the person a great partner would want to be with long-term, dating can lead to short-lived connections or painful breakups. Instead of maintaining facades for temporary success in relationships, invest time and energy into building skills, experiences, and personal growth. This foundational work ensures that when the right partner comes along later in life, you'll both be ready for a meaningful connection.

Living in a 1987 van parked behind a climbing gym in Oakland revealed an unexpected blessing: navigating the city without owning a car. Previously reliant on an expensive Subaru Outback that drained finances and wasted time in traffic, necessity forced reliance on walking, biking, and public transport—proving far more efficient. The realization emerged that cars are costly luxuries often unnecessary when living centrally where everything is accessible within five miles. By ditching the car for simpler alternatives like bicycles or buses, life became less burdensome financially and logistically.

Cancel subscriptions that don't contribute to your financial growth, as they drain both money and focus. Entertainment services like Netflix or Hulu can distract from addressing real-life challenges, preventing progress. Instead of escaping reality through distractions, confront difficulties head-on like a buffalo facing a storm—running towards it for quicker resolution rather than prolonging the struggle by avoiding it.

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Two years ago, quitting alcohol brought immediate and remarkable benefits. Despite being in good physical shape, it led to a surprising 5-pound weight loss and significantly improved sleep quality. Even minimal consumption—just one or two drinks weekly—proved detrimental, as research confirms no safe level of alcohol exists; it's merely poison hindering self-improvement. Beyond monetary costs, the true expense lies in its toll on mental and physical health while offering no real advantages apart from temporary pleasure. Eliminating this "dead weight" simplifies life's challenges dramatically.

Discover five transformative strategies designed to propel you forward in life. These "cheat codes" encourage turning setbacks into opportunities, embracing growth mindsets, and leveraging time effectively for personal success. The focus is on actionable steps that inspire change and maximize potential.