30 Things I Learned in 30 Years!

Introduction:

In my 33 years, almost 34 (this September, baby!!) I’ve learnt many lessons – some the hard way. Whether they’re to do with people, education, jobs, or overall life experiences… I’ve decided to share them all with you and maybe make this a series as well. What do you think? What have you learned lately?

• Worry less about what others think of you – don’t be a people pleaser!

“Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe.” – Proverbs 29:25

• Stop saying “sorry” for things you shouldn’t – again, don’t be a people pleaser!
• Patience – is a wonderful thing! Whether it’s waiting in line or for an answered prayer.

• Boundaries – are oh so important. Learn how to make them early on!

“You have to love and respect yourself enough to not let people use and abuse you. You have to set boundaries and keep them, let people clearly know how you won’t tolerate to be treated, and let them know how you expect to be treated.” – Jeanette Coron

• Self Care vs Spiritual Care – they’re different! Learn how to differentiate and apply them.
• It’s not a competition – embrace your season and celebrate those in different ones!
• Things don’t always go to plan – don’t beat yourself up if things fall through. If they do, it might not be God’s will.

• Believe in yourself – if you apply yourself you can accomplish many things.
• Invest in yourself – whether it’s health, treating yo’self, education, or mental health days!
• There’s still time for things – you’re not too old.
• Don’t be complacent – spend time with your family, do the things before it’s too late.

“The tragedy of life is not found in failure but complacency. Not in you doing too much, but doing too little. Not in you living above your means, but below your capacity.” – Benjamin E. Mays

• Speak to yourself as you would a friend – self talk is oh so important.

• Get to know yourself better – go on a couple dates with yourself!
• Be open to continuous learning – we’ll never stop learning!
• Forgiveness – it’s not for the other persons benefit, it’s for your inner healing.
• Always say I love you, even when you’re mad – Oof. This is tough, but worth the lesson!

 “Do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give no opportunity to the devil” – Ephesians 4:26-27

• Give yourself grace – if things don’t go right, don’t beat yourself up!
• Love God first and foremost – He loves us and is working in our lives. He’s done so much for us and will continue to do so. He’s a great Heavenly Father!

• Seek advice from your elders – seniors have a lot of wisdom and they love to share if you’d just listen.
• Pick your battles – you don’t have to win everyone, most times its not worth the effort.
• Allow yourself to have bad days but know when to seek help!

“For many of us, a day is neither bad or good. It is our attitude that seems to make it what it is.” – Darryl Van Kirk

• Develop a growth mindset and keep developing it!
• Be present – if you’re just on your phone when you should be experiencing life and making memories, you’re missing out!!

• Communication is everything! Seriously.
• Write it down, make it happen! Goals only happen if you acknowledge them and work on achieving them!
• Embrace your failures – like Paul in the bible, his weakness was his strength.

“A failure is not always a mistake, it may simply be the best one can do under the circumstances. The real mistake is to stop trying.” B. F. Skinner

• Do it scared – for example, my internship with LAD – it’s been so worthwhile so far!
• Get a mentor – this is oh so valuable, everyone should have one!
• Find something you’re passionate about and become really good at it!
• Ask questions! Seriously. A silly question does not exist.

In Conclusion:

I sincerely believe that as human beings we should have a growth mindset and be actively invested in learning. It’s so important for our wellbeing, both mentally and physically! These are a few of the things I’ve learnt in my 33 years but I’m sure there’s more and will be more, and for that I’m excited!! What have you learned at your age?