Life’s Little Instructions

This wonderful list of William Snell’s “Life’s Little Instructions” was written when William was 95 years old, and shared in 1993.  Almost 25 years later, these instructions still ring true. They are timeless.

When you look through this list, note how many of these things you do or have done. If any are missing from your list, add them.

Your attention to these simple things of life will have far-reaching and long-lasting impact for both you and those with whom you interact.

Life’s Little Instructions by 95-Year-Old William Snell

• Sing in the shower.
• Treat everyone you meet like you want to be treated.
• Watch a sunrise at least once a year.
• Never refuse homemade brownies.
• Strive for excellence, not perfection.
• Plant a tree on your birthday.
• Learn three clean jokes.
• Return borrowed vehicles with the gas tank full.
• Never waste an opportunity to tell someone you love them.
• Leave everything a little better than you found it.
• Keep it simple.
• Think big thoughts, but relish small pleasures.
• Become the most positive and enthusiastic person you know.
• Be forgiving on yourself and others.
• Say “thank you” a lot.
• Say “please” a lot.
• Avoid negative people.
• Wear polished shoes.
• Remember other people’s birthdays.
• Commit yourself to constant improvement.
• Have a firm handshake.
• Send lots of valentine cards, sign them.
• Look people in the eye.
• Be the first to say “hello.”
• Return all things you borrow.
• Make new friends but cherish the old ones.
• Keep secrets.
• Plant flowers every spring.
• Have a dog.
• Always accept an outstretched hand.
• Stop blaming others.
• Take responsibility for every area of your life.
• Wave at kids on school buses.
• Be there when people need you.
• Don’t expect life to be fair.
• Never underestimate the power of love.
• Drink champagne for no reason at all.
• Live your life as an exclamation, not an explanation.
• Don’t be afraid to say, “I made a mistake.”
• Don’t be afraid to say, “I don’t know.”
• Compliment even small improvements.
• Keep your promises no matter what.
• Marry only for love.
• Rekindle old friendships.
• Count your blessings.
• Call your mother and your dad too, if they happen to be alive.