Turning 28, Here Are 5 Lessons I Wish I Knew at 18

1. Know Yourself: The Three Pillars of Life – Security, Money, Freedom

Forget balance. You can’t have all three. Life forces you to choose two: security, money, or freedom. The sooner you accept this, the sooner you can make the right choices.

For me, it was a no-brainer: money and freedom. That’s why I built SaaS businesses. They generate cash flow while giving me the freedom to live on my terms. If you want stability, get a job. If you want money and freedom, build something scalable. Simple.

Most people wander through life without knowing what truly drives them. They chase shadows and wonder why they’re unhappy. Take the time to ask yourself: What do I actually need? Then, build your life around that answer.

2. Build Businesses with Two Goals: Cash Flow & Valuation

Most entrepreneurs screw this up. They either chase short-term cash or only focus on the long-term exit. Big mistake. You need both.

Cash Flow pays for your lifestyle. It’s what keeps you alive, fuels your failures, and funds your next moves. If your business doesn’t generate enough monthly revenue to sustain you, it’s a glorified hobby.

Valuation is your future. It’s what buys your house, secures your family’s future, and funds your most ambitious project: life itself.

The goal? Build something that spits out cash every month while increasing in value. Then, when the time is right, sell it, cash out, and move to the next level.

3. Never Feel Guilty About Taking Vacations

For years, I thought hustling 24/7 was the only way. Then I realized something: my best ideas, my most strategic moves, came when I stepped back.

I need three months off per year to perform at my best. Not because I’m lazy, but because creativity doesn’t come from staring at a screen all day. It comes from detaching, resetting, and letting your mind breathe. When I take time off, I come back sharper, more creative, and ready to win. Find your rhythm and respect it—burnout is for amateurs.

4. In E-world, There Are Artists and Craftsmen

If you want to build something great, understand this: there are artists and craftsmen.

Artists create, imagine, and push boundaries.

Craftsmen execute, refine, and bring visions to life.

The best products come from a strong duo: an artist with vision and a craftsman who makes it real. The moment you try to do both, you water down your strengths. Know your role, find your match, and respect the dynamic. And above all: leave your ego at the door.

5. Invest in Symbols – They Are Your Legacy

I used to think luxury watches, rings, and jewelry were pointless. Then I asked myself: What will I leave behind?

Symbols carry meaning. A Rolex isn’t just a watch—it’s a milestone. A signet ring isn’t just jewelry—it marks an achievement.

Sold your company? Buy a watch. Hit your first million in cash, get a ring. These objects aren’t about flexing; they’re reminders of the journey, physical markers of success. Years from now, your kids will see them and ask, “What’s the story behind this?” And you'll tell them.

Memories fade, but symbols endure.

I learned all this the hard way. If you’re 18 and reading this, don’t waste a decade figuring it out. Life isn’t about playing safe—it’s about making the right bets, knowing what drives you, and building something that lasts.

Your move.