10 Remarkable Life Lessons From Star Trek
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Fifty years ago in September 1966, Star Trek appeared on TV screens, and its power is still felt across generations today. Even though William Shatner made his first captain's log a long time ago, people still love watching new iterations of the series like Star Trek Beyond. So what is it about Star Trek that captures the hearts of millions of people, decade after decade? It's the type of show with lessons that everyone can learn from, at any point in their life.
When any big life changes happen, it's natural for people to look for an example to follow. Until recently at a business meeting, I didn't realize I was already following a path into the future. I was comparing a current problem to something I watched on television the night before. I can't recall the particular problem, but I do recall saying, "Well, we could be diplomatic, but as Scotty said on Star Trek last night, 'The best diplomat I know is a fully charged phaser bank.'"
"You turn everything into Star Trek," a co-worker said.
She was right. For years, I've related everything to Star Trek. And why not? Captain James Tiberius Kirk is the most successful person I've ever observed. He's a well-known and respected leader, a good manager of people, dedicated, moral, adaptable, and at the top of his profession. There are worse role models.
Star Trek appeals to both younger and older generations. As a kid, it was my favorite TV show. As an adult, virtually every night after work, I walk in the door, collapse on the couch, and hit the remote control to watch it. Star Trek is the only show I can always watch start to finish.
That comment at work helped me realize everything I love and know about Star Trek. It also made me think about everything the show has taught me about what's necessary to live a meaningful life; it isn't that complicated, as you'll see ahead.
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Each person (and species) has the right to live their life as they wish.
As long as they're not trying to take over the galaxy or eat you or something.
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Everyone has a role in life.
Sulu is the navigator; Uhura is the communications specialist. Do your own job, and the ship (of life) will function more smoothly.
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Whatever you are doing, answer a distress call.
The most important time to help someone is when they need it.
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If you mess something up, it's your responsibility to make things right again.
Say you disrupt history and cause the Nazis to win World War II. To correct matters, you have to let Joan Collins walk in front of a car even though you're in love with her. Or, in your own life, try your hardest to fix a mistake.
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The more complex the mind, the greater the need for simplicity.
Take a break and indulge in your favorite hobby — doesn't matter if it's coloring books or taking photographs.
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If you can keep your head in a crisis, you've got a fighting chance.
Always try to keep your mind clear and calm.
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Close friends become family . . .
. . . and family is the true center of the universe.
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With time and patience, you can always learn something every day.
What you learn doesn't have to be a huge, unknown fact; it can be small and just relevant to your life. You can also always watch Star Trek: The Next Generation to learn a life lesson.
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