31 life lessons that I’ve learned
I have always loved my birthday. For me, it represents more than just being another year older. It is a special moment to celebrate life and to reflect on all that I have learned over the years. So, today, on my 31st birthday, I want to share 31 life lessons I have learned.
Ageing is a gift. So, don’t dread turning 30, 40 or 50 because not everyone has the privilege of growing old.
Focus on the people who are there for you during difficult times rather than those who are not. The challenges we face in life show us who matters.
It’s natural to fear death, and many of us fear it for different reasons, but never let that fear hinder you from enjoying life. Although it’s not up to us when our time is up, it is up to us on how we’ll spend our time.
Forgiving those who have done you wrong is important to finding closure and moving forward. The actions of others do not define who you are.
Do your best not to worry, especially about the things you cannot control. Remember: “Worrying is like a rocking chair; it gets you nowhere.”
Have an emergency fund. It will ease a lot of stress if you ever lose your job or fall ill (e.g. a cancer diagnosis). These unfortunate circumstances can happen to the best of us.
Never compare or measure your life against others because it will only make you unhappy or dissatisfied. We’re all on a different path in life, and some things happen sooner for others (e.g., building a home or starting a family).
Accept and learn from your mistakes and move forward. You can’t turn back time, so carrying the weight of regret with you is not beneficial.
When you have a thought or brilliant idea you want to remember, and you have it while lying in bed at night, write it down immediately because you won’t remember it in the morning. :)
Always appreciate what you have, and don’t dwell on what you don’t have. Others are less fortunate and have much less than you do now.
Family is everything, and they should always come first. And, you should never have to question if they would catch you if you were to fall. Also, it’s a blessing to consider some friends like family.
Make eating healthy and exercising a priority now, not tomorrow. Sadly, we won’t realize the impact of neglect until our bodies begin to fail us, and by then, it could be too late to correct the situation.
Be true to yourself. Life is going to be very difficult if you’re not. The people who matter will love you for who you are.
Spend less time on social media and more time with family and friends. That’s the best way to stay connected. If the distance becomes an obstacle, pick up the phone more.
Although we can’t always control the obstacles we face in life, we can control how we face them. Staying positive can help you stay powerful, so focus your energy on the positive rather than the negative. You will get through it.
Never take the time you have to spend with family or friends for granted. You never know when it will be cut short. You never want to look back and say, “I wish I spent more time with them.”
Actions do speak louder than words. Relationships built on this belief are the best kind.
Show up on time. It is disrespectful to keep someone waiting.
Acknowledge and appreciate life’s simple pleasures more (e.g. feeling the cool side of the pillow on a hot summer night).
Live in the moment instead of always trying to capture it (e.g. put away the camera at the concert you’re attending and enjoy the music).
Surround yourself with people who are positive and who care about you. If someone brings more negative energy to your life than positive energy, they shouldn’t be in your life.
Don’t be afraid to go after what you want in life. It’s up to you to try and make your dreams and aspirations a reality. And, if for some reason it doesn’t work out in your favour, find solace in knowing that you made a move that many don’t.
If you ever don’t feel well or think something could be very wrong with your health, see your doctor immediately. It’s better to be safe than sorry. Remember, no one ever wants to be in a situation that could bring bad news, but it’d be much worse to hear: “You should have come to see me sooner.”
Giving back in any way you can does matter and makes a difference. Things will only improve through action and support. Never think your contribution to a cause is insignificant.
Keeping a journal of funny quotes your family and friends have said is therapeutic on a bad day. Laughter is the best medicine.
Never be afraid to tell someone you care about them. They may feel the same way! If they are not on the same page, be proud that you were truthful and brave enough to say how you feel.
Looking and feeling young is best achieved through exercising, drinking lots of water and wearing sunscreen. Also, pale is the new tan. ;)
Sometimes, we have to do things in life we don’t want to do (e.g., working two jobs to pay the bills or undergoing chemotherapy). But in the end, we will be better people for having done them.
Stop caring about what people think of you. You will never please everyone. As long as you’re doing your best to live a great life, no one’s disappointment should matter.
Never settle for someone who doesn’t treat you right or doesn’t make you feel loved. (I think drawing attention to lesson #17 is essential here.)
Little lessons that make a big difference: Carry Kleenex with you at all times. Check the toilet paper roll before using a public bathroom. Eat and then drink.