I recently celebrated another trip around the sun, and this birthday felt different. For the first time in years, I decided to step back, take a breath, and truly celebrate with my family. As I soaked in the love and laughter, I found myself reflecting on the journey that brought me here. So, I thought, why not share some of the pearls of wisdom I’ve gathered in this crazy adventure called life? Here are “Ten Things I Did Not Know in My 20s” – a mix of personal anecdotes, professional insights, and a sprinkle of humor.
1. Embrace the Chaos:
Life is not a well-choreographed dance; it’s more like a freestyle rap battle…or an awkward line dance that you have never heard of before but get thrown into. Embrace the chaos, roll with the punches, and dance like nobody’s watching….better yet, dance like a 4-year-old. The more I let go of the need for control, the more joy I found in the unpredictable rhythms of life.
2. Drawing Boundaries Between Work and Life:
In the age of constant connectivity, drawing a clear line between our professional and personal lives has become increasingly challenging. Technology blurs the boundaries, making it tempting to let work seep into every aspect of our existence. However, it’s crucial to resist this encroachment. You are not defined solely by your job title. While the demands of the professional sphere may be relentless, it’s essential to delineate your identity from your career. At the end of the day, your job is a part of your life, not your entire life. Take deliberate steps to separate the two, finding a balance that allows you to thrive in both worlds. After all, a fulfilling life extends beyond the confines of the office, and preserving that space is vital for your well-being.
3. The Power of Saying “No”….and nothing else:
Ah, the sweet liberation of saying “no” without guilt and without the apologetic explanation. In my late 30s, I learned that my time and energy are precious commodities. Saying “no” doesn’t make me selfish; it makes me self-aware. It’s about setting boundaries and preserving the magic words for things that truly matter. No is a complete sentence.
4. Mom Guilt is a Myth: Mom Guilt is a Real Thing, But it Shouldn’t Be:
As a mother, I understand the weight of mom guilt all too well. Society can make us feel like we’re not doing enough, doing too much, or not doing it right….you just can’t please everyone. But here’s the truth – mom guilt is a real thing, but it shouldn’t be. Embrace imperfection, acknowledge the effort you put in, and remember that a happy and fulfilled you is the greatest gift you can give to your children. Let go of the guilt, and cherish the beautiful chaos of motherhood.
5. Confidence is Magnetic:
Navigating a male-dominated industry taught me the power of confidence. It’s not about arrogance but a quiet assurance in your abilities. Stand tall, speak your truth, and let your confidence be the magnetic force that draws opportunities your way.
6. Friendships Need Maintenance: Friendships Shouldn’t Feel Like Work:
In the intricate dance of life, friendships should be a source of joy, not an additional task on your to-do list. Cultivate relationships that feel effortless, where conversations flow and laughter comes naturally. Be mindful of those who demand more than they give, as true friendships thrive on mutual support and understanding. Choose friends wisely, and let your social circle be a place of genuine connection and shared happiness.
7. Vulnerability is Strength:
It takes strength to be vulnerable, and vulnerability breeds connection. Share your fears, admit your mistakes, and open your heart. In my 30s, I discovered that true strength lies in authenticity.
8. Celebrate Small Wins:
Amidst the big goals and grand aspirations, don’t forget to celebrate the small wins. Life is a series of moments, and each victory, no matter how small, deserves a toast. Cheers to progress, no matter how incremental!
9. Laughter really is the Best Medicine:
Life can be tough, but laughter is a universal remedy. Surround yourself with people who make you laugh, find joy in the little things, and remember that a good laugh can brighten even the darkest days. Most importantly, learn to laugh at yourself or even better by yourself. Sure, someone watching may think you’ve gone bonkers….but who cares?
10. There is power in reflection:
As I closed the chapter on my 30s and stepped into my early 40s a couple of years ago, I found myself immersed in the profound journey of self-awareness. It was during this time that I discovered the true power of reflection. In the pursuit of understanding the depths of self-awareness, I took deliberate steps to empower myself.
I went full in with learning as much as I could. After my first professional coaching training, I delved into the world of self-awareness coaching, driven by a desire to unlock and uncover its secrets. The revelation, however, was that there is no secret. The key lies in self-reflection, a practice that has proven to be one of the most potent gifts one can give oneself.
I firmly believe that self-awareness, coupled with intentional reflection on who you are, what you do, and what truly defines you, is an unrivaled source of personal power. Self-awareness can take away the power anyone can have over you.
Closing Thoughts:
So there you have it, ten nuggets of wisdom I stumbled upon, or in some cases crashed into over the years. Birthdays are not just a marker of time but an opportunity for self-discovery. As you’re reading this, I encourage you to reflect on your own journey. What have you learned? What surprises are waiting for you in the next chapter? Life is an ever-evolving story, and the best chapters are often the ones we least expect. Here’s to embracing the unknown and making every year a celebration of growth, love, and laughter. Cheers to you, and happy exploring!
