Tim Minchin’s Nine Life Lessons

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More than a decade ago, comedian, musician, and thinker Tim Minchin delivered an unforgettable commencement speech that continues to resonate for us today. Though laced with his trademark humor and irreverence, the speech offered deeply thoughtful guidance for navigating life. Here’s a summary of Minchin’s nine life lessons, each a reminder to embrace humility, curiosity, and compassion.

Minchin flips the conventional wisdom that urges people to “follow their dreams.” Instead, he advises focusing on short-term goals and being “micro-ambitious.” He encourages moving from one small, interesting thing to the next, trusting that a meaningful path will form over time.

“I advocate passionate dedication to the pursuit of short-term goals. Be micro-ambitious.”

Minchin values intellectual rigor and self-skepticism. He urges people to examine their beliefs, embrace evidence, and be open to changing their minds.

“A famous bon mot asserts that opinions are like arseholes, in that everyone has one. There is great wisdom in this... but it is not enough to have opinions. You must think about where they come from.” 

Don't Seek Happiness

Happiness, Minchin argues, is fleeting and not a sustainable life goal. Instead, he urges us to seek contentment and meaning through growth and engagement with life’s challenges.

“Happiness is like an orgasm. If you think about it too much, it goes away.”

While effort matters, Minchin emphasizes the role of luck—where you were born, who you were born to, and the opportunities that come your way. Recognizing this helps cultivate humility and compassion.

“Understanding that you can't truly take credit for your successes, nor truly blame others for their failures, will humble you and make you more compassionate.”

This one is simple but powerful: exercise. Minchin underscores the profound impact that physical activity has on mental health and overall well-being.

“Play a sport. Do yoga. Pump iron. Run... whatever it is, just keep your body active.”

Whether formally or informally, Minchin champions the power of teaching and mentorship. Sharing knowledge—especially with the next generation—is one of the noblest callings.

“Share your ideas. Don’t take advantage of your position. Try to bring people with you.”

Rather than defining yourself by what you oppose or criticize, Minchin advises rooting your identity in the things you love. It’s a more joyful and constructive way to live.

“Be demonstrative and generous in your praise of those you admire. Be pro-stuff, not just anti-stuff.” 

Minchin calls out arrogance and the abuse of power, advocating for empathy and respect, especially toward those in subordinate positions.

“You can tell a great deal about a person by how they treat those they are not legally obliged to treat well.” 

Finally, Minchin reminds us that life is not a race. There's no need to sprint toward some imagined finish line. Slow down, savor moments, and let life unfold.

“You don’t have to already know what you’re going to do with the rest of your life. Life will reveal itself to you slowly.” 

Minchin’s nine lessons challenge conventional platitudes, offering a grounded, thoughtful perspective on success, kindness, and purpose that we believe offer value to those of leading mission-driven enterprise. In a world often obsessed with ambition, certainty, and self-promotion, Minchin’s words are a breath of fresh, honest air. If you haven’t watched the full speech yet, it’s well worth your time—equal parts hilarious and inspiring.