If you're anything like me, you love "The Office," and you especially love Michael Scott. After watching the show through seven times, I've come to deeply appreciate Michael. Regardless of the satire, "The Office" and Michael teach some incredible life lessons. We can all learn from Michael Scott, whether it's about business or life in general. Even though the list is infinite, I've somehow narrowed it down to ten. Here are ten influential lessons taught by Michael Scott.
1. Anything is possible.
We've all been there. We've been told that we couldn't make the basketball team, get that job, or graduate the second grade. Michael has taught us that anything is truly possible. All it takes is some perseverance and growth, whether it is physical or mental.
2. There is a time for laughing and a time for crying.
You just got your midterm back. You see your grade. At first, you try to laugh it off, tell yourself that everything will be okay. Suddenly, reality strikes. Michael teaches us that it's okay to have mixed emotions. There is a time to laugh and a time to cry, especially as a college student.
3. We all have our flaws.
We all have flaws. I smile too much. I'm way too friendly to people. I sing A LOT. So, sue me. No, don't do that. Michael teaches us that it's okay to have flaws; they are a part of life and they set us apart. Don't hide your flaws, instead, let them blossom. But, don't hit someone with your car.
4. Sometimes, we just need to ask for forgiveness.
Have you ever been in a fight with your best friend? Honestly, you don't plan on it separating the both of you forever, but eventually, someone has to ask for forgiveness. Michael teaches us to be the bigger man (or woman). It will heal everything. Ask for forgiveness and you'll probably end up like Michael and Dwight.
5. "Mo money, mo problems."
It's pretty simple. Of course, as college students, we can't relate; but when you're the regional manager of Dunder Mifflin Scranton, you're rolling in the cash. When you graduate with that nice degree, be sure to remember this or you're guaranteed to have some issues.
6. Set your bar high (unless you're doing the limbo).
As a college student, it's hard to constantly keep a high standard. We get side-tracked, tired, and sometimes give up. In the midst of all the stress and tears, it's important to keep your standards high. High standards will result in more success throughout your life. Michael's high standards resulted in him being the best regional manager at Dunder Mifflin, the best friend a man could ask for, and eventually led him to Holly.
P.S. If you are doing the limbo; keep that bar low.
7. We won't always get what we ask for.
Growing up, we all wanted that Capri Sun or to go to that friend's house, but our parents wouldn't let us. It sucked. Sometimes, we will get the exact opposite of what we ask for. Luckily, not getting everything we desire is a blessing in disguise. Instead of focusing on everything you want, look for the bigger picture. After Jan cheated on Michael, Michael found his dream girl in Holly Flax. I think we can all say Michael won after that breakup.
Michael also taught us how to react when something happens that we don't like.
8. When you think you have it all figured out, you don't.
We're all in Michael's boat. It's your senior year of college. You have a job lined up, a place to stay, and goals ready to be broken. You could say you've got everything figured out. But, like Michael, when we really break it down, sometimes we have no idea what we are doing next and that's okay! Life isn't about having everything figured out, it's about enjoying it every step of the way.
9. Be different.
It's pretty evident: society has taught us all to be similar. This is something Michael clearly rejects - to the point where he is no longer actually apart of society. Michael is not your typical person; he is an original and he's much more lovable than the average person. So, set yourself apart. It will pay off when you're searching for a job, spouse (yeah, I went there), and in general. Be like Michael. Be different.
10. Grief can be a good thing.
We will all grieve at some point in our life. Whether it's over a final exam, end of a relationship, or any other situation, we must remember that grief helps us come to terms with what has happened. Life will always have its twists and turns, but grief can be used to our advantage. Whenever hardships come your way, don't let grief get you down. Be like Michael and Charlie Brown; use grief to your advantage.
11. It's never a bad time for a dance party.
This is something my friends and I have adopted into our midterm and finals week life. Michael teaches us that "Cafe Disco" is a necessity in all of life, but especially in college. When you are stressed out and work is just getting you down, pull out your stereo, bump some tunes, and just dance. I guarantee you won't regret it.
12. Always say "thank you."
It's astounding to think what a simple "thank you" can do for someone. Michael was always the first to be thankful for someone's service and we should act the same. Whether someone held the door for you, made your favorite cup of coffee, or just did something out of their way for you, hit them with a nice "thank you" and see how much they appreciate it.
We could all learn a thing or two from Michael. For those who have never watched The Office, I advise you to sit and soak up Michael's wisdom. For those who have, I advise the same.
I've learned one thing: you can never get enough of Michael Scott.
