As 2024 wraps up, here are 24 lessons I picked up over the last 365 days.

But FIRST

If you are new, welcome to OCE’s weekly newsletter curated for the ambitious youth…here are some articles you missed from previous weeks:

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Forget Goal-Setting, Here’s What Actually Works

Best tools for building your passion project

Ready for some real talk?

1. Clarity comes when you stop chasing everything

2. Long-term vision = no time wasted on short-term distractions

3. Freedom’s impossible if you’re attached to everything.

4. No one really gives a sh*t about you—stop fearing judgment and start creating.

5. The hardest thing? Truly knowing yourself.

6. Sometimes, the best way forward is to pause and reflect.

7. Strongest relationships are built on mutual value exchange.

8. Opportunities show up when you’re focused on delivering your best work.

9. Depth > hustle.

10. Persistence is overrated—experiment instead.

11. The quickest way to build trust? A strong introduction.

12. The law of attraction works—if you’re doing the work.

13. Best marketing? Tell a good story.

14. Success doesn't come from checking boxes.

15. Real creativity thrives in solitude.

16. Question everything—assumptions are the quickest way to stay stuck.

17. Hard work is a waste if you don’t play to your strengths.

18. True respect comes from valuing ideas, not just success.

19. The worst thing you can be? Boring.

20. Time invested in yourself is never wasted.

21. Be the one they can’t reach—stop being so accessible.

22. Comfort zones are prisons—escape often.

23. You can’t control the game, but you can master how you play it.

24. Silence often speaks louder than words.

That’s my take. Ready to conquer the next 365 days!

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PS. This summer, we are going to tackle pressing global issues and drive innovation in regions (such as your own community) where it is needed the most. Want in?

We run a summer cohort for ambitious youth (high school and undergrads) to work directly with world-class founders while learning from Silicon Valley leaders.

OCE Summer Cohort

You can also explore purposeful opportunities through our Impact Internship Opportunities Database.

Get Curious.

Lena

https://www.openclassroomexperience.com/