32 Things Learned on the Way to 32

My 32nd birthday is on Saturday. Birthdays always make me reflect on the year that has passed, where I've been, what I've done, and where I'm going or want to go. Lately, I've also been thinking a lot about what "life things" I've learned so far. Though I'm still making  mistakes and learning every day, (and there's a lot more that didn't make the list), I've decided to share some of the funny and some serious things I've learned and know for sure.

1. Travel. As often as humanly possible.

2. Have opinions, but for a reason. Know the facts about what you believe in, and not just what’s “popular” or “trendy” to believe in. "If you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for anything." 

3. It's ok to say "no" when you feel like it.

4.Trust your gut. It's usually right. 

5. Real books are better than e-books. But e-books are easier to tote around/carry.

6. Be yourself. (Everyone else is taken.) Don’t try to be someone you’re not

7. But also... get out of your comfort zone. Be open to trying new things.

8. Don't mess around with Ouija boards. (Especially not while drinking.)

9. Budget. Save. Invest your money when you can. But pay your bills first.

10. FOMO is real. You know what's a good cure? Get off the internet!

11. Canola oil is not the same as vegetable oil- do not substitute one for the other.

12. Not all cheap wine is bad, and not all expensive wine is good. Find your favorites. Drink whatever you like.

13. Invest in proper footwear, comfy underwear, and your health.

14. Speaking of which, go to Dr. appointments. (Yes, even the dreaded dentist.) Good health is important, and something you can't get back once it's gone.

15. Unless you want to wind up with a bunch of unhealthy, easy to make food, don't go to the grocery store hungry.

16. Apologize. And learn to forgive yourself and others. No one is perfect.

17. Live alone, at least once in your life. I learned so many things about myself, became completely self-reliant, and learned to appreciate my alone time even more.

18. Tip your servers, especially when you're in a group and especially bartenders (just trust me on this one).

19. Let go of anything or anyone that doesn’t positively influence your life or bring you joy/happiness. Be selective. 

20. Just because something still fits doesn’t mean you should still wear it.

21. Allow yourself to love. Even if you’ve had your heart broken before.

22. Always carry cash. Even if you have to hide it from yourself in a pocket of a wallet.

23. Give to others whenever you can. Donate. Volunteer. And remember that sometimes time> money. 

24. Have a hobby. It makes you more interesting and adds to your life.

25. There is no such thing as going out for “just one drink.”

26. Have dreams. Have Goals. Reach for them. "Learn from the past, focus on today, dream about the future."

27. Be grateful for what you have. Appreciate both the big and little things in your life.

28. Never stop questioning and learning new things.

29. If you don't ask, the answer is always no.

30. Everyone has stress. Know what works best for you to destress/calm down.

 

31. Embrace change. (I’m still working on this one.) But it’s true… "If you want things in your life to change, you are going to have to change things in your life"

32. Just like the 90's song said, wear sunscreen.

Mindy gets me. 

What are some life lessons you've learned? 

Linking up with Joey and Kristin!