Talent without discipline is like an octopus on roller skates. There's plenty of movement, but you never know if it's going to be forward, backwards, or sideways.
Remember that no relationship is a total waste of time. You can always learn something about yourself.
Remember that life's big changes rarely give advance warning.
Tell your wife often how terrific she looks.
Be smarter than other people, just don't tell them so.
Life doesn't require that we be the best, only that we try our best.