
Chris Mads
31 things I've learned
Updated: Jul 29, 2019

I'm turning 31 today. I figure in the last three decades I must have learned something useful on top of the multitude of interesting but somewhat impractical academia. So here goes, I am going to get all Baz Luhrmann on my experiences and see what I can come up with.
Take responsibility for your actions
Always carry cash
Don’t take flowers to a first date
Worrying achieves nothing
It is better to be told to "stop" than "go"
Get out of your comfort zone
If in doubt, dress up
Always jump into the pool
“It seemed like a good idea” is all the reason you need
Reply to messages
Introduce yourself at the first given opportunity – first impressions last
Look people in the eye
If you do not need the seat on a busy train then stand up
Walk roadside
Learn to say “I don’t know” when you don’t know
Always have an escape plan
Find your anchors
At the dinner table: hat off and phone away
Keep clean
The fact someone said something does not make it true – do your own research
Someone who disagrees with you is not necessarily stupid
Try to be the person you needed when you were younger
Always learn their name
People are stupid
Be polite to both the doorman and the CEO
You can’t always be proven right and keep the peace, learn to work out which is required
Not knowing is not always wrong but it is rarely funny
Don't cancel important plans by text
If a busker makes you stop then you owe them money
Always pack a spare shirt and underwear
Enjoy it