It’s guest post Friday and today All Groan Up welcomes James White. Enjoy! 

You can learn a lot from Game of Thrones, if you pay attention. In the world of Westeros, you are lucky to make it past the age of 30, but if you do, you have most certainly learned enough to make you wise beyond your years.

Below are seven lessons you can learn by reading this hit series.

7 Life Lessons from Game of Thrones

1. “Every man must die, Jon Snow. But first, he must live.” – Ygrette

Our inevitable death is sometimes a joy killer but this quote reminds us to focus not on death but on life and what we can accomplish with our life.

2. “The storms come and go, the waves crash overhead, the big fish eat the little fish, and I keep on paddling.” – Varys

Varys brought himself to power by knowing when to blend in the background and when to stick out. If you want to be successful in life, be patient and strategize. Varys plans took years to be brought about because he knew how to pull the strings without getting eaten by a bigger fish.

3. “A mind needs books as a sword needs a whetstone, if it is to keep its edge.” –Tyrion

Read! Read! Read! You have an indispensable tool at your fingertips called the Internet. Learn as much as you can and then keep learning more. Just like Tyrion, what will get you through life is knowledge and wisdom so learn from those who came before you.

4. “A bruise is a lesson… and each lesson makes us better.” –Arya Stark

Bruises, both physical and mental lessons, will help teach and mold you into a better person. Bruises hurt and so do some lessons but take what you learn to heart and it will keep you alive.

5. Pay Your Debts Quickly

The only lesson that’s not a quote but lesson still holds true throughout the book. If you are in debt, you’re a slave. Pay off your debts as quickly as possible so it can’t be loomed over your head. And, if possible, don’t owe any debts.

6. “Words are Wind”

This phrase was said multiple times throughout the book series. Actions always speak louder than words. If you want someone to believe you, show your worth through your actions. Vice versa, don’t always take what someone says as true. If anything, get it in writing so they can prove themselves with actions.

7. “Everyone wants something. And when you know what a man wants you know who he is, and how to move him” – Littlefinger

The book How to Win Friends and Influence People teaches the same lesson as Littlefinger. You must give in order to take. Just asking for something won’t always get you what you want, instead learn what the person, friend, boss or family member wants and how you can help them. Once you help them, they will be more willing to help you.

James is a freelance writer and photographer who is currently working on his business degree. Read more articles from James on his blog Infobros.com or follow him on Twitter.