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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
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I Wish Someone Had Told Me ... summary
Dana Perino
The Best Advice for Building a Great Career and a Meaningful Life
17 mins
Brief summary
I Wish Someone Had Told Me ... shares Dana Perino’s personal and professional insights, offering practical advice for overcoming life's challenges. It provides guidance on navigating careers, maintaining relationships, and cultivating resilience in today’s world.
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I Wish Someone Had Told Me ...
Summary of 5 key ideas
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Key idea 1 of 5
Balance comes from boundaries, habits, and knowing when to say “no”
Nobody really has it all figured out – not the rising executive, the multitasking parent, or the ultra-organized colleague. Everyone’s juggling something. The key isn’t to strive for perfection, it’s to create habits and boundaries that make life manageable, even when things get hectic.
For habits, one of the most effective ways to keep all the plates spinning is to build small systems that remove friction. Start simple: pick out your clothes the night before. It may seem trivial, but it clears space in your morning and reduces decision fatigue. A few minutes of silence or guided meditation can help reset your mind before the day ramps up. These micro-routines create stability even when everything else feels in motion.
When it comes to establishing boundaries, this is where the real balance in life comes from. First, try to limit yourself to one evening commitment during the workweek. Say “no” more often – and more simply. When you decline an invitation, you don’t owe anyone a detailed reason. A direct “I’m unavailable” is enough. Overexplaining drains energy and invites unnecessary negotiation.
Respect your off-hours, and ask others to do the same. If you need time with your family in the evening, say so. Then log back in later if needed, on your terms. If you’re someone who works best at night, use delayed-send features so your emails land in others’ inboxes at reasonable hours. It’s a small gesture that protects everyone’s rhythm.
When opportunities come your way, try the “rule of three.” Ask yourself: Does this excite me? Will it pay? Does it support a cause I care about? If it doesn’t check at least one box, it’s a no. This helps keep your focus on what truly matters – without guilt or second-guessing.
It’s also okay to use psychology to your advantage. Prepay for classes, events, or memberships. When your money’s already on the line, you’re more likely to show up – even when you’re tired or tempted to cancel. It’s not just a financial commitment – it’s a commitment to yourself.
And remember, balance isn’t static. What works now may not work next year. The goal isn’t to find the perfect routine – it’s to keep adjusting as life changes. And when everything feels on the verge of collapse, act as if you’ve got it under control. Often, showing up is all it takes to restore momentum.
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What is I Wish Someone Had Told Me ... about?
I Wish Someone Had Told Me… (2025) is a practical guide to navigating life and career with purpose, clarity, and confidence. Drawing on stories and insights from a wide range of accomplished professionals, it offers straightforward advice on building momentum, standing out at work, and maintaining balance along the way. From financial planning to long-term fulfillment, it delivers real-world wisdom for every stage of your life journey.
Who should read I Wish Someone Had Told Me ...?
- Ambitious professionals seeking practical career and life advice
- Young adults navigating early job and relationship challenges
- Fans of Fox News personalities and behind-the-scenes stories
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