7 Life Lessons I Learned from Legend of Zelda

It was my first ‘favorite game.’ Sure, I had others before it, and many after it. But Legend of Zelda was my first favorite, and I’ve often pondered why. Thinking about that today I came up with this idea — here’s a fun list of illustrated life lessons embodied in the game.

1. It’s Dangerous to Go Alone.

We start out thinking we will single-handedly conquer the world, and the truth is, we’re going to need a lot of help along the way. From mentors to peers to the occasional nemesis, we’re never going to get where we want to go all by ourselves. And it’s dangerous to think we can.

The very first thing Link does in the game is meet and listen to this guy, and take along a trusty sword.

2. We Have To Work For What We Want.

Effort is required. Nobody is going to simply hand us everything we need, we will need to work for it. We will have to put in the hours to develop our skills and to master our craft. And the more we invest in ourselves, our training and our expertise, the better we get. It’s hard work, but it’s worth it.

3. Choose Wisely.

In this scene, Link can get instant health by taking the heart, or he can take the medicine, which he will probably need in the future. We too need to decide what things we want now, and what things we can wait for. Instant gratification often leads to regret later on.

4. Heed Advice And Listen For Clues

Clues and hints are all around us and we need to pay attention to them. Sometimes it’s our own gut telling us something, and sometimes someone flat out gives us an answer. So if you’re offered free advice, listen to it.

5. You Choose Your Path.

You get to decide which way you want your life to go. Nobody else can choose it for you. Sure, you might regret your choice later on, but you can always come back or change direction later. It’s never too late. IN FACT….

6. Sometimes You Have To Go Backward To Go Forward

It’s going to happen at some point, you are going to have a setback, or have to make a move backward before you can go forward. But that’s ok. It’s how the game is played, and it’s how life works. Setbacks are part of life, but you can’t let it stop you. Go figure out what you missed and then move forward again.

7. You Have To Pay Your Dues

You don’t get what you haven’t earned. Do the work, walk the path, win the battles and then you get in. There is no other way. And you actually NEED all of the lessons along the way to solve the bigger problems later on. Trust me — you don’t want to go in there until you’re ready.

Thanks for indulging my whimsical look at Life Lessons from Zelda. For those wanting to try their hand at the game, you can play it online at http://www.playretrogames.com/2367-the-legend-of-zelda