10 Life-Changing Lessons from Playwright Suzan-Lori Parks' Commencement Speech

In 2001, playwright Suzan-Lori Parks shared powerful life lessons in a commencement speech. Let's distill her insights into 10 inspiring takeaways for a quick dose of motivation.

Embrace Contradictory Advice: The best and worst advice Parks ever received – "Don’t study English" – urged her to think for herself, emphasizing the importance of trusting your inner instincts.

Cultivate 'Inner Ear' Training: Your education helps develop your inner voice. Listen to your heart and gut when making decisions.

Discipline as an Act of Love: Discipline doesn't have to be torture. Think of it as an extension of the love that you have for your self in the bigger picture.

Patience and Timing: Things come to you when you're ready to handle them – not before. Keep walking your own path.

Relish the Winding Road: Life's journey is full of twists and turns. Enjoy the adventure, just like Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz.

"You see the glory of Oz up ahead — but there are lots of twists and turns along the way — lots of tin men, lots of green women."

Make the Most of What You Have: Success isn't about what you possess; it's how you use it. Turn limitations into strengths.

Practice Cultural Cross-fertilization: For every 30 min of TV you watch, read one poem out loud. For every work of literature you read, spend at least 30 min in the mall (or equivalent). This is a way to stay interested in everything and not get too stuck in your ways.

Talent is Overrated: "Talent is really the gift of love." It comes when you love what you do; when you're devoted to a pursuit you cannot resist. That's what you need to overcome the obstacles along the way.

Avoid Self-sabotage: Eat healthy. Meditate. Exercise. Use all 7 senses (the basic five plus ESP and humor).

In short: Suzan-Lori Parks' wisdom reminds us to trust ourselves, cultivate discipline, and embrace the journey with passion and patience.