By the time this is shared, I'll already be 35. While celebrating another year, I've been doing a lot of ruminating on where I'm at as I keep moving forward. And so far, life is going good. This doesn't mean everything's been perfect or that I've dodged challenges, but for the most part, things are good.
Outside of the world as we know it moving through a major time of transition and uncertainty, personally, I’m doing well.
As past birthdays came and went, I’d typically write and reflect about different things society, family, friends, and haters have suggested “I should” have or be doing by a certain age. However, I thought it’d be cool to share 35 truths I’ve embraced while embracing my 35th year. Here we go.
1) If you like and love your life, it really doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks.
2) Everyone’s not going to like you. You’ll live.
3) Some people are jealous of you based on a limited view they have of your life. No one truly “has it all.” Even if you are blessed.
4) Sometimes you just need a day.
5) Anyone’s name that’s not on your mortgage can’t tell you how to run your household.
6) Quality over quantity. Always.
7) It’s okay to set boundaries without feeling the need to explain yourself.
8) No will always be a complete sentence.
9) No one’s life is as “put together” as presented on social media. Sometimes the pictures are better than the reality.
10) Block buttons and mute buttons were created for a reason. Know when to use them.
11) Delete your work email app off your phone.
12) Don’t respond to work calls or emails on your days off.
13) Don’t be afraid to use your personal leave and medical leave.
14) Don’t compare yourself to other people.
15) It’s not a good idea to mix family and business.
16) Always save money.
17) Chill with people who fit your future.
18) Cut one-sided friendships loose.
19) It’s okay to be disappointed. Just don’t stay there.
20) Take care of your spiritual, mental, and physical health.
21) Some guys are just cool to grab coffee or food with. Understand the assignment so feelings don’t get hurt.
22) Some guys just aren’t boyfriend material… or marriage material either.
23) It shouldn’t take forever for a guy to propose. You either are or are not the one for him.
24) Know when to leave. If possible, leave on your terms.
25) It’s okay if you want to get married. It’s also okay if you don’t.
26) You don’t have to answer questions about why you’re single, why you don’t have kids, or why you do or don’t want those things.
27) You can never do enough for an ingrate.
28) You don’t have to explain your life choices to anyone.
29) You don’t need to apologize for being successful.
30) You don’t have to settle for a partner with kids if you don’t have kids.
31) You don’t need a significant other to have a significant life.
32) Anyone you’re not interested in isn’t worth your time or energy.
33) Distance yourself from people and things that waste your time and money.
34) Hard work does pay off.
35) Learn the lessons. Pass the tests.