Leaving Home at 17: The Unlikely Lessons That Shaped My Leadership Journey - Jonathan Hime
I hugged my mum tightly at Liverpool Lime Street station, holding on for a few extra seconds before stepping back. A few minutes later, the train pulled away, and just like that, I was on my own. At 17, I embraced total freedom—no curfews, no rules, no one to answer to. It was both exhilarating and daunting.
That night, I celebrated my newfound independence, completely unaware that the decisions I was about to make would teach me some of the most valuable leadership lessons of my life. Some were painful. Some were reckless. But every single one shaped the way I lead today.
1. The Company You Keep Determines Who You Become
At 17, I thought, "I’ll spend time with whoever seems cool."
The reality was that I became involved with a group that thrived on chaos— I watched others steal cars, get into fights, shoplift, and fall into drugs. It wasn’t long before I realised that being in the wrong circle didn’t just put me in risky situations; it was changing me.
#LeadershipLesson1 ➡️ In business, just like in life, the people around you influence your decisions, values, and direction. I’ve developed a keen radar for people who align with my integrity—and those who don’t.
2. Decision-Making Under the Influence Can Cost You Everything
At 17, I assumed, "Everyone experiments; it’s fine."
In reality, I witnessed how alcohol and drugs turned intelligent individuals into reckless decision-makers. One moment, they felt invincible; the next, they were entangled in irreversible troubles.
#LeadershipLesson2 ➡️ Good decisions are rarely made in a state of impairment—whether that’s literal or figurative. Today, I surround myself with people who challenge my thinking, not cloud it. Big decisions require clarity, not impulse.
3. Financial Freedom Without Discipline Is a Trap
At 17, I told myself, "I’ll budget, but still live my best life!"
The reality was that I overspent, depleted my funds, and had to take on a part-time job to support my 'live in the moment' lifestyle.
#LeadershipLesson3 ➡️ In business, budgets exist for a reason. Every pound needs a purpose. I don’t just try to invest when I have surplus—I invest when the timing is right. The difference between thriving and failing often comes down to financial discipline, which I am still learning.
4. Trust Your Gut—And Act Fast
At 17, I decided, "I’ll trust my instincts and hope for the best."
In reality, I stood at a crossroads one night; one path led deeper into trouble, the other toward home and a better education. I chose to walk away from one particular life, a split-second decision that changed everything.
#LeadershipLesson4 ➡️ When something feels wrong, it usually is. Trust your instincts. A leader’s ability to recognise and correct course quickly is the difference between success and disaster.
5. . Stay Grounded—No One Succeeds Alone
At 17, I thought, "I should check in with my family more often."
The reality was that the more I engaged with my parents and older siblings, the more I recognised the privilege of my independence. Their support and guidance kept me anchored.
#LeadershipLesson5 ➡️ Leadership is a privilege, not a right. It’s easy to get lost in power, but staying humble, staying connected, and recognising the people who keep you grounded will determine your longevity as a leader.
6. Not all mistakes are equal—some will haunt you
At 17, I believed, "Mistakes are just part of life."
In reality, some mistakes were harmless. Others left scars. There were moments I couldn’t undo, and years I couldn’t reclaim.
#LeadershipLesson6 ➡️ Not all failures are learning experiences—some are wake-up calls. The key is knowing the difference. The best leaders don’t just ‘learn from mistakes’; they actively avoid the ones that can cost them their credibility, reputation, or future.
Final Thoughts
Leaving home at 17 taught me more about leadership than any classroom ever could.
It taught me that who you surround yourself with matters.
That discipline outweighs momentary gratification.
That trusting your gut can save you.
That some mistakes aren’t worth making!
So, I’ll leave you with this: what lessons from your youth still shape the way you lead today?
#MyLeadershipJourney #LookingBack #WhatIWishIKnewAt17 #Leadership #LeadershipLessons #LifeLessons #LessonsFrom17 #TeenageLessons
👥 I’d love to hear your thoughts—let’s connect! Follow along for more insights as we grow together.
