Jonathan Swift's 'Resolutions when I become to be old' (written when he was 32)

Not to marry a  young woman.
No to keep young company, unless they really desire it.
No to be peevish or morose, or suspicious.
No to tell the same story over an over to the same people.
Not to be over severe with young people, but give allowances for their youthful follies and weaknesses.
Not to be too free of advice, or trouble any but those that desire it.
Not to talk much, nor of myself.
To desire some good friend to inform me which of these resolutions I break or neglect, and wherein; and reform accordingly.


(The author of Gulliver's Travels)