Once you learn these 9 lessons from Confucius, your priorities in life will completely change

Ever heard of Confucius?

If not, he was one of the most influential thinkers in Chinese history.

In fact, he had such a massive impact on Chinese society that a lot of what he said is still being taught today.

He espoused the well-known principle called ‘The Golden Rule’: “Do not do to others what you do not want done to yourself”.

He also offered incredible wisdom on how to live a fulfilling and happy life.

Below we’ve gone over some of his most potent lessons that we all can benefit from.

1. Just keep going.

As long as you’re continually progressing and moving down the right path, you’ll eventually get to where you want to go. It takes effort to be consistent, but if you stay consistent, you’ll get what you’re looking for.

2. Your friends matter.

You’re only as good as the people you surround yourself with, so make sure you have the right friends and you treat them well.

A healthy social circle is also important for happiness. A 75-year Harvard study found that relationships are the single most important factor in a person’s happiness.

3. Good Things Come With a Price

It can be so easy to be negative. Our brain’s are wired to do so in order to protect us against threats.

However, that doesn’t mean we can’t change our perspective. Consciously focus on the good, even if it takes effort. Over time you’ll rewire your brain to have a more positive outlook.

4. To be Wronged is Nothing

Don’t focus too much on the past or negative situations you’re confronting. Try to focus on what will actually help you in the future.

This involves setting a goal, no matter how big it is, and then figuring the steps needed to achieve it. You’ll undoubtedly have set backs and criticisms along the way, but don’t dwell on them and continue moving ahead.

As a simple example, if I wanted to finish reading a 450 page book in one month, I would set 30 steps of completing 15 pages each. If I fail on some of those days, I wouldn’t put myself down, but simply read 30 pages on other days.

5. Consider the Consequences

Remember this quote next time you’re angry. Being angry never really leads to anything positive. It’s much better to take a step back and take a measured response. This is where real progress is.

6. Make Adjustments

Keep an eye on your progress and if isn’t working out as you expect, change your approach. Pivot!

This involves taking a step back every now and then and asking yourself honestly “Am I improving?” If you’re aiming to learn a new language, then every week or so, test yourself to see whether you’re learned more new words.

7. You Can Learn From Everyone

Everyone has life experience and there is always something to learn. If you develop this approach every time you’re meeting someone new, not only will you learn more, but you’ll also become more likeable because you’re actually interested in what they have to say.

8. All or None

If you want to succeed at anything, you have to give it your all! This goes for relationships just as much as for work.

9. Sharpen Your Tools First

Don’t rely on winging it. Try to be prepared for whatever you’re facing. If you want to achieve your big goals, then you then to constantly work on your skills that will help you reach them. Great things take effort and determination.