35 Things I’ve Learned - A Birthday Post
In 2020 for my 33rd birthday, I posted 33 things I’ve learned in life. I did this again in 2021, and here I am in 2022, turning 35. Time stops for no one, despite a pandemic. Each year is an exercise in reflection, growth, and accountability.
The food you eat is more important than the exercise you get.
Happiness doesn’t come from your family, friends, pets, or hobbies – it comes from you.
No job is worth upsetting your physical or mental health
Have a side hustle – or two
When you find people who don’t drain you of energy, keep them in your life
Discomfort is a sign of growth - do something that makes you uncomfortable
It’s never too late to start a skin care regimen
You can over-process and over-optimize. Understand the law of diminishing returns
Embrace changing your mind when presented with new information.
When starting a book, read 100 pages minus your age – if you don’t like the book by that point, move on to something else.
Combine the “spark joy” of Marie Kondo with the systems and containers of The Home Edit to make the most out of your space.
Buy fewer, better-quality things when possible
Not only is it okay, but it’s vital to hold contrary thoughts in your mind at the same time
Be unreserved in your praise of others and, where appropriate, be unreserved in your affection
Recognize where you have privilege and use it to help others
It’s easy to feel entitled – don’t. You’re entitled to very few things in life.
Realize you are only in control of your mind. Have a good attitude and enjoy the ride.
Get a thermostat that lets you set a nighttime temperature. You’ll sleep so much better in a cooler room.
Plant native plants in your yard
Don’t offer your opinion if you weren’t explicitly asked for it.
When you feel yourself getting judgmental or disparaging, get curious instead. Why do you feel this way? What’s creating this feeling?
If you really want to do something, you’ll make time to do it.
Parkinson’s Law: Things fill the space allotted for it. This applies to both physical items and time.
Kind is not the same as nice – being kind is more important.
The right tool for the job can make all the difference between success and failure – get the right tool where possible.
Find a best friend at work.
Keep your work best friend(s) from your last job.
Regularly purge your house of not-needed or not-wanted items. You feel lighter.
Vegetables can taste good – even without super fatty dressings!
Read things that make you uncomfortable, especially topics around race, gender, and ableism.
Try baking or cooking something new to challenge yourself.
Walk 30-45 minutes each day, every day.
Value yourself more, advocate for yourself, and ensure you get paid what you’re worth.
Don’t let your 401k be the only source of retirement income. Learn more about finance and investing and secure your future.
When you find someone you want to work with – or for – figure out how to make it possible.
My hope is that we all learn more and more each year we are alive. Here’s to another great year!