3. Most of my 30s
A few years ago I was telling my business partner Brian that I felt like I’d given up the entirety of my 30s. I spent my 30s doing what many people did in their 20s, building the foundation for my career. He said, “yeah, but your 40s are going to be amazing because of what you did in your 30s.” I was planting the seeds for the person I eventually wanted to become.
Even though I was living at home, I was determined to make sure it was time well spent. I gave myself an education that killed the crap out of the one I got in school. I read hundreds of books, wrote 3 books, planned a conference, produced an animated series, and interviewed more than 600 people for The Unmistakable Creative podcast.
While all of these things didn’t immediately increase my earnings, they raised my earning potential significantly. As I’ve said before, don’t just increase your earnings, increase your earning potential.
Even if I had to search for a job, I’d have far more value to offer now than I did with my previous job experience. If you find yourself post-college, living at home, struggling to find a job, give people a reason to find you interesting.
Time is the most valuable asset at your disposal. And you will have to give up some of it to accomplish anything. You don’t have to give up your entire 30s. If you give up one hour a day for uninterrupted creation time, you’ll be amazed by what you’re capable of.
