27, 28, 29, and just like that it’s the year of 30. Where did the time go! As I approach my 30’s, I can’t help but think about all of the amazing things to come. Of course there’s some fear and uncertainty but I’m choosing to move through it as I remind myself of all my lessons learned in my 20s. Still, there’s so much more I wish I was told to prepare for this next phase of my life. So I hope these tips ease the journey into 30 for others.
1. DO things on your own time
Societal pressures can feel at an all time high. These pressures can force us into a whirl of thoughts thinking about all the things you should have accomplished by now. Whether that’s having kids, making 6 figures, traveling to at least 20 countries, or even finding the love of your life, everything will happen in due time. If you don’t have the dream job or salary you thought you would have by now, I’m here to tell you it’s ok! More than ok. Don’t get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with striving for societal milestones, however, they don’t make or break you.
As I’m approaching 30, I realize that my life isn’t over. It’s just getting started and probably the best part yet! List your goals, do the work, make things happen, but at the same time let life happen. There’s so much more to come.
2. Your Mental Health is Important!
Our mind and body are more connected than we realize. As I move towards 30, I am more aware of my health. I struggle with anxiety. This shows up as stomach pains, headaches, heartburn, and more. Last year, at my most serene moment, I had no anxiety and no ailments. It was not until things became hectic at work that the symptoms came flooding back. I wondered about this change.
Noticing the cause made me recognize that how we treat ourselves and our circumstances have a direct impact on how we function socially, emotionally, and physically. Soon after, I rearranged my calendar to make more time for myself. I started different meditation practices and it worked wonders! Be kind to yourself and seek support.
3. Put yourself first (Boundaries)
Growing up I struggled to speak up for myself. I’ve said yes to things that I should have said no to. I’ve extended myself to others with little regard for my own needs. It’s been a long journey and some days I still find myself trying to figure it out. I’ve learned that putting others first will constantly leave you in a space of resentment and frustration.
Find a balance and take care of yourself and your own needs. If you’re not able to make it to that birthday dinner or volunteer at work, that is ok. Honor your own needs before pleasing others. The art of boundaries has been my biggest lesson in my 20s and will be my biggest conquest in my 30s.
4. It’s never too late to start over
In school, I sat in classes hearing a million different stories about career switches and different school paths. There were people switching careers after 15 years of devoting their time in a field. Others who switched their major multiple times and some who questioned everyday the path they were on. One woman I knew dropped out of law school to pursue a career she wanted instead of what her parents wanted. Her family thought she was crazy but as she sat in class crying, I instead thought she was brave and courageous.
We’ll never know if something will work out unless we go for it. It takes courage to follow your intuition. Whether that’s a new job, new love, or moving to a new location, take the risk!
5. do more of what you love
Life is too short to not do the things that bring you joy. Every day is a new opportunity to pick up a new hobby, spend more time with your favorite people, or just sing at the top of your lungs when no one’s home (sometimes that’s me lol). Whatever it is that you love, plan and make time for it often.
6. You have ownership over your life
We all have the agency to change the things we do not like in our life. There may be obstacles, barriers, and even mountains but when there’s a will there’s a way. Our circumstances can make things difficult, but by no means do we need to stay stuck or always blame others for why we may be in a certain situation.
Every choice and decision you make day to day matters. Every morning I wake up with the intention to workout. I want to make sure I upkeep my health as I age. I do this because no one will have my best interest more than me. The more responsibility and ownership we take over our lives the better the outcome in the long run.
7. Who you’re around matters!
Those that you surround yourself with should fill you with knowledge, laughs, and joy. The brain is a powerful tool. We can absorb a lot of the information and behaviors around us. (We can be influenced by the behaviors and information around us too.) I’ve been grateful to find people who are positively in my corner. It’s important to be surrounded by people who make a positive impact and move you forward in life. My friends have taught me how to invest, how to be a better partner (so important lol), and even got me several job offers! Your people will uplift you, feed your mind, elevate and motivate you, as well as add to your joy.
8. No one has it all figured out
At 11, I thought everyone had it figured out at 22. In my mind, every 22 year old was simply grown, independent, and had their entire life planned out. I’m laughing now at 29. I was so wrong. You’re where you’re supposed to be! Life is a crazy ride and you’re going to make tons of decisions you’ll regret. It’s ok! I thought by 29 I would have kids, own a car, and already made my way around the world. You might sometimes feel stuck, angry, or frustrated, but you will eventually just figure it out. Set your intentions, make a few plans, explore, and take action. Take your time, things will work out for the best.
9. Stay Optimistic
I know it’s harder than people make it seem. I even have to catch myself sometimes when negative thoughts come into my head about my performance at work, my finances, or even how productive I am. Life is harder when you’re negative about things all the time. How you perceive yourself and the world impacts your environment. Your mindset can change your energy with the people around you and most importantly yourself. Start with positive vibes daily and watch a shift in results.
10. STOP CARING ABOUT What OTHERs say
Caring about what other people think can lead us to become self-critical. What other people think shouldn’t impact all your decisions in life nor compromise your self-esteem. Worrying about how others view you can increase self-doubt and decrease our confidence. I always have to remind myself that everyone has their own opinion. My own opinion and what I think about myself is most important. I’m 100% for ignoring negativity and judgment from others. You don’t need their approval and you’re never going to make everyone happy. Someone will always have something to say. Keep growing and keep glowing.
11. Set Financial Goals
Budgeting, saving, and planning for your future is so important. This year, I worked on increasing my financial literacy and it has been absolutely life saving. You’d be surprised how much you can learn from just Youtube! If only I knew at 18 what I know now, it would have made such a big difference! What’s important now is that I’m learning for myself and my own kids to hopefully create a foundation for generational wealth. Keep it stacking!
Here’s To The Year of 30!
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