#99: 15 Things You Should Know How To Do (Friday, November 14)

I used to love the show McGyver. No matter what situation he found himself in, he always had a trick to get out. McGyver most of us are not. LOL. But there are certain basic life skills that we all should know. Life is unpredictable; you never know when you'll need one of these...

1. Read a map/use a compass: To get where you’re going, you need to know where you are.

2. Swim: The earth is more than 70% water; there really is no excuse

3. Save a life: Do you know what to do if someone’s choking? Can’t breathe? Is losing a lot of blood? Basic first aid and CPR skills are essential

4. Operate a computer: You don’t need to be Bill Gates, but it’s a mandatory skill for our times.

5. Negotiate: Whether it’s your salary, a cheaper rate on your credit cards, or a lower price, there is nothing wrong with asking.

6. The laws where you live: “Ignorance of the law is no excuse.” Know your rights…it could save you a trip to jail.

7. Operate a car: This includes basic things like changing the tire, the oil and putting gas in it.

8. Give a speech: Most people are terrified of speaking in front of a large audience, but you never know when that skill may lead to a valuable opportunity.

9. Deliver bad news: It’s a morbid thought, I know…but someone has to do it, and it will probably be you at least once in your life.

10. Speak another language: This is gonna shock you, but only 25% of the world’s population speaks English. Why limit yourself by only interacting with English-speaking people all your life?

11. Listen: It’s sounds simple enough, but not many people know how to do it well.

12. Promote yourself: Most of the people I surround myself with are humble, and don’t like to brag. But if no one knows how great you are, how can they consider you for the next big opportunity?

13. Save: We live in an “immediate gratification” society. Alas, there are many people who, if they lost their jobs today, wouldn’t have enough to pay their bills for the next month.

14. Remember names: Don’t cop out and blame it on a bad memory; all it takes is a little effort and listening.

15. Cook: You don’t need to be Top Chef, but you should know at least the basics…like a soufflé. LOL.