This past week I celebrated my 35th birthday, nothing major just a quiet dinner with friends at the local Applebee’s lol. Honestly, I would not have had it any other way. These past few years have truly flown by. I know a lot of people typically get bummed out by milestone birthdays like this, but I don’t feel that way at all. As my grandfather always says, “any day above ground is a good day!” I’ve learned a lot (and still learning) in my 35 years.
In honor of my born day I wanted to share some things I’ve learned over the years – 35 to be exact!
1. You are responsible for your own happiness. – Don’t let others dictate it for you.
2. Self-care is not selfish – in fact it is necessary. This one is something that I have had to learn myself since becoming a mom. Taking time out to rejuvenate is so important, not just for my well-being but the well-being of my family as well.
3. Don’t rush the process, your season is coming. A lot of times we get so caught up in wanting things because we see others around us getting/doing them. Just because your best friend is getting married or having children doesn’t mean there is something wrong with you because you’re not. It just may not be your time yet.
4. Listen to your body – I think this one comes with age lol but get your annual check-ups. Let your physician know what is going on. We tend to ignore the warning signs because of schedules or feeling like its nothing, DON’T!
5. Treat others how you want to be treated – so I know this is a little grade school, but it rains true in your adulthood as well. If you treat others with respect, they will do the same to you.
6. If they really want you there, they’ll invite you.
7. Other people’s opinions of you is none of your business.
8. It’s okay to say no and not give a reason – I use to feel bad having to tell someone “no” if I could not do something. The older I’ve gotten I realize it’s not that big of a deal. And sometimes saying “no” for your own personal sanity is necessary.
9. Cherish the small things.
10. Define your own version of success, don’t let anyone dictate it for you.
11. When it comes to friendships it’s quality over quantity – When you’re young you feel that you need a ton of friends, but truth is you only need a few really good ones.
12. Stop asking women when they will get married, have children, etc. – don’t do this at all. You never know what someone is going through and being constantly reminded they don’t have children is not helpful.
13. Save, save, SAVE!!
14. Take on as little debt as you can. It pays off in the long run.
15. You don’t have to have it all figured out – I’ve just turned 35 and I am still trying to figure it out
16. Don’t let social media fool you, no one has it all together.
17. Do what you love, love what you do.
18. Drink water and exfoliate your skin – it goes a long way.
19. Speak-up for what you want, whether professionally or personally.
20. People make time for what they want to.
21. Your only competition is yourself.
22. Being a homeowner is cool, but it comes with a lot of responsibility – make sure your ready.
23. If you don’t try, you’ll never know.
24. Vision boards really work – whether old school poster board or digital, seeing your goals daily helps you better achieve them. You have to see it before you see it!!
25. Failing is a form of success, now you know what not to do the next time.
26. No one is perfect so don’t stress yourself trying to be.
27. That dress does not make you look fat.
28. Never say never. This thing called life can be quite unpredictable be ready for its surprises.
29. Be more present – if you’re out with friends or family don’t spend all your time trying to get the best Instagram shot or tagging locations of Facebook.
30. Sis, you are enough – in fact you’re probably too much for them anyway.
31. Choose experiences over things. – sure that big house may be nice, but if you can never leave it is it really worth it?
32. if it’s meant to be, it will be.
33. Things don’t happen to you, they happen for you. – read that again.
34. Becoming a mom has been the hardest and best thing I have ever done.
35. Attitude and perspective are everything. Depending on if you have a positive or negative reaction will determine the impact.
