Do you ever think about what you would say to your 18 year old self? Its a fun exercise. You celebrate victories. You laugh at the more mature perspective you have now, hopefully. How much would you change? I have a list of “wisdom” that I would try to convey to my arrogant, stubborn, anxious self. These range from relationship advise, investment ideas, moments to capitalize on and moments to ignore.

Recently, I’ve added a new pearl to the list. I would say , “self (because what do you call yourself), avoid the golden handcuffs of employment. Don’t get fat and lazy with a big salary. Set a compensation number and then leave when your compensation reaches that number. The goal is freedom, not a big salary.”

How do you set a compensation number? Pick a number that reflects you have adequate skills and knowledge needed to launch your own enterprise. Leave before its to late. The golden handcuffs of a high salary is a hard mistress to say goodbye to. Comfort is the American addiction. Being told what to do is our comfort zone. Resist! Plan an out! Freedom is the goal!!