John Berry shares 11 life lessons that helped him overcome cancer and other challenges.

The valley has more growth than the mountaintop, and other thoughtful insights for life.

John Berry shares 11 life lessons that helped him overcome cancer and other challenges.
John Berry shares 11 life lessons that helped him overcome cancer and other challenges.

John Berry, a Nashville-based country music singer, is sharing the 11 life lessons that have kept him going through tough times and continue to guide him today. He believes these principles can benefit others as well.

During a recent tour through Maryland, the longtime performer discussed faith, family, and career in that order in an on-camera interview with Planet Chronicle Digital. (Watch the video at the top of this article.)

He is also rejoicing because he is cancer-free today, five years after fighting throat cancer.

Berry stated that if he is following the path that God intends for him, everything will be alright.

"There's a reason why he has me here, and I believe it's crucial. God also blesses me with a family. While careers may come and go, family remains constant. At least, that's what we hope for."

John Berry performing on stage
Singer John Berry is shown performing at the 2014 Inspirational Country Music Awards on Nov. 13, 2014, in Nashville, Tennessee. (Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for the Inspirational Country Music Awards)

It is crucial to uphold family commitments and maintain those relationships.

Robin Berry and her husband, Berry, are traveling across various states during the summer, including Virginia, Tennessee, Alabama, and Florida.

He imparted his life lessons and their significance in detail to Planet Chronicle Digital.

Country music star's 11 tips for life

Having multiple plans is crucial in the music industry. If you only have one plan, it will be challenging to navigate through the ever-changing landscape. It's essential to be flexible and adaptable to different situations.

To remain competitive, you must adapt to change and make strategic shifts.

John Berry talking to Planet Chronicle Digital outside
John Berry, based in Nashville, shared with Planet Chronicle Digital in July 2024 the enduring life insights that have sustained him over the years. "You can't sing for people who aren't there," he said. "But for the ones who are there — you give 110% and share your heart and your life." (Planet Chronicle Digital)

I was inspired by a military gentleman who emphasized the importance of making the bed upon waking up.

Before leaving your room, you make your bed, which is a basic task in the military but has a larger significance.

When I'm up, the first thing I do is make the bed because when I'm home, I'm really home.

"Before you even walk out of your room, you've accomplished something."

As I stroll through the house, I enter the bedroom to find a stunningly made bed.

The accomplishment of completing a task in the morning sets the tone for the rest of the day.

3. Ensure transparency with your team and those who support you.

Teach others the significance of prioritizing life in the order of God, family, and career.

Despite the challenging circumstances in life, such as my cancer battle, my source of happiness lies in my faith.

John Berry performing
John Berry is shown performing at the Inspirational Country Music (ICM) Awards held at Cornerstone Church on Oct. 22, 2015, in Nashville.  (Rick Diamond/Getty Images for ICM)

Our Savior, who is God's Son, came to Earth to save us from our sins. This act brought us joy and allowed us to come closer to Him.

As a follower of Christ, I believe that seeking Him and His wisdom for my life is the right path to take. If I am on the path that God wants me on, then I trust that He has a purpose for me here.

Family is truly important to me, as God has blessed me with one.

Careers are fleeting, constantly evolving. When your career ends, it ends for good. The majority of your colleagues will not remember you once you're gone.

"Careers come and go. Careers change. Family is a whole different thing."

My family is spread across different locations, with kids in Texas, Atlanta, and Nashville, and other family members whom I keep in touch with regularly.

For years and years and years and years.

While career is crucial for our financial security, it should not overshadow family relationships. It is essential to prioritize family and invest time and effort into maintaining healthy relationships.

John Berry singing
John Berry performs during an "Alabama & Friends" tornado relief concert benefiting Jacksonville State University at Burgess-Snow Field on Sept. 26, 2018, in Jacksonville, Alabama.  (Diamond/Getty Images for Absolute Publicity)

Charlie Daniels once said, 'Don't look at the empty seats.'

You can't sing for people who aren't present, but for those who are, you give your all and share your heart and life. You hope they'll leave with something more meaningful than just a night of entertainment. You hope you've given them an experience.

6. Avoid being overly proud of your accomplishments. There is something more detrimental than individuals requesting photographs and autographs. If it weren't for the supporters, we wouldn't be in this position.

My job is to make a difference in people's lives.

There is more growth in the valley than on the mountaintop.

9. Make the audience eager for more and leave the presenters proud of having hired you.

10. Be decisive and clear about your identity so that others can easily recognize it.

The three most crucial aspects of life are faith, family, and friends.

by Maureen Mackey

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