Who doesn’t love their birthday? I always looked forward to celebrating my birthday as a kid. As soon as it was a month from my birthday, I would start counting down the days. I would make sure my whole family knew what I wanted for my birthday. I would eagerly wait till the day I could open all my presents or have my birthday party with all my friends. As I grew up, my birthday became more of a day to spend with family and friends and be grateful for all the wonderful things I had or experienced over the last year. So, in honor of my 21st birthday this month, I would like to share 21 things I have learned over the years.
- You are #1! Always prioritize your wellbeing and growth. It is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself.
- Cherish every moment with your loved ones
- Follow your own dreams. Never pursue anything without your own ambition and drive
- Say “I love you” as much as you can. You never know what it means to a person or when you will get to say it last.
- Read more books…or at least strive to do so. Knowledge is power.
- Pay attention to all the little things your parents try to teach you. I wish I had paid more attention when my mom was trying to teach me how to fold a fitted sheet:/
- Know your worth and don’t ever let anyone treat you less than that.
- Not all relationships are meant to last. Sometimes people need to come in and out of your life to teach you a lesson, give you a little hope, or lend support for a temporary amount of time.
- Don’t hang on to people that drag you down. Surround yourself with those that make you feel good about yourself and push you to the next level.
- Your future career is not everything! Consider your future family, adventures, milestones, and ambitions as well.
- A strong romantic relationship does not always mean that you must be “head over heels” for that person at all times. Long-lasting, healthy relationships take hard work, commitment, humility, and loyalty. It is easy to fall in love, but it takes work to stay in love.
- Work hard, play hard! You can be young, ambitious, and fun!
- ALWAYS have a playlist to hype yourself up handy. Sometimes it just takes a little music to get you into the groove.
- Invest in yourself. Whether it is through money or time, if you have the means to do so, invest in things that will further your mental and physical health.
- Look good, feel good, do good! Always dress to impress yourself.
- Choose your words kindly. You can be firm with your words without causing destruction and hurt to others.
- Be present. This means physically and mentally. Show up to as many life events as you can, you won’t get those times back and they are not easily replicated.
- Don’t lower your standards for a boyfriend or girlfriend. Losing yourself in a relationship is never worth it.
- If it still bothers you after 48 hours, speak up within 24 hours. Don’t let burdens grow to the point where you lose important relationships in your life.
- Write down your goals, you’ll remember them better.
- Take things one day at a time. Be patient with yourself. Good things come to those who wait and are persistent.
I hope that you were inspired by some of my lessons, or it at least got you thinking of some important things that you have learned over the years. Birthdays are a great time of reflection to look back on all your growth. Be proud of who you are, where you came from, and where you’re going! Now, if you excuse me, I think I deserve a little celebratory drink and birthday cake for all my hard work over this past year. Cheers!