Hot Water Tank Anode Rod Change: Don't Make These Mistakes!

These are two Rheem water heaters installed 4 and 7 years ago. This is my first time changing sacrificial anodes on any boiler. I found out a few things and did some things wrong. Checkout my mistakes that I fix as I go. It all worked out in the end but it could save you some time by knowing up front.
Here are my Amazon affiliate links to the sacrificial anodes that I used on the two water heaters (Thank you if you decide to make a purchase!).
https://amzn.to/3ztmt3l Ozek Water Heater Anode Rod – 44 inch Magnesium Flexible Anode Rod for Hot Water Heater
https://amzn.to/3TwB6d1 Flexible Water Heater Magnesium Anode Rod 3/4 Inch NPT Thread Hex Plug | Collapsible Anode Rod For Hot Water Heaters Tank | 4 Segmented Rods 44" Long