38: Lessons I Learned Turning 35
Life Lessons from Turning 35: Embracing Growth, Change, and Authenticity
.Turning 35 can be a pivotal milestone in life, a moment when you pause, reflect, and recognize how far you've come—and how far you still want to go. In my latest podcast episode, I took the opportunity to share 20 personal lessons I've learned over the years, lessons that continue to shape who I am today. This reflection is not just about me, though—it’s about you, too. How we learn, grow, and evolve with time is an ongoing journey that we all experience in our own ways.
So, let’s dive into the life-changing lessons that have shaped my perspective over the past few years.
1. Embrace Uncertainty
One of the most freeing lessons I’ve learned is that it’s okay not to have everything figured out. Life is unpredictable, and as much as we strive for certainty, it's often the unknown that drives our growth. Instead of fearing it, I’ve learned to embrace uncertainty and trust that things will unfold in ways I may not always expect, but will ultimately be for my highest good.
2. Prioritize Mental Health
For so long, I focused on physical health but neglected mental well-being. Over the past few years, I’ve come to understand that mental health is just as important—if not more so, than physical health. Incorporating therapy, mindfulness practices, and regular self-care into my life has been transformative. It’s the foundation for navigating challenges and staying resilient.
3. Set Boundaries
Setting boundaries isn’t about being selfish; it’s about protecting your energy. I’ve learned to say no when necessary and to prioritize my needs. Whether it's turning down an opportunity that doesn’t align with my values or cutting out toxic relationships, boundaries help maintain my peace and well-being.
4. Celebrate Small Wins
In the hustle to achieve big goals, we often forget to celebrate the small victories along the way. I've learned to take a step back and acknowledge the little wins. These small moments of progress build momentum and help you stay motivated. If we only focus on the end goal, we miss out on the joy and pride that come with the journey.
5. Let Go of Perfection
Perfection is a myth. I used to obsess over getting everything just right, whether it was my work, appearance, or relationships. But over time, I realized that striving for perfection only left me feeling exhausted and unsatisfied. Embracing imperfection has allowed me to show up authentically and freely, without the weight of unrealistic expectations.
6. Cultivate Gratitude
Gratitude has been a game-changer in my life. Regularly practicing gratitude—whether by journaling or taking a moment to reflect—has helped me shift my mindset. It’s easy to focus on what we lack, but gratitude reminds me of all the abundance in my life. The more I practice it, the more I attract positivity and joy.
7. Invest in Relationships
Our relationships shape our lives. I've learned that the quality of my relationships is far more important than the quantity. Investing time and energy in relationships that uplift and support me has been one of the most rewarding choices I’ve made. These connections provide the love, encouragement, and strength I need to continue pursuing my goals.
8. Take Risks
One of the most powerful lessons I’ve embraced is the importance of stepping out of my comfort zone. Taking risks—whether in business, personal growth, or relationships—has pushed me to achieve things I once thought were impossible. Not every risk has paid off, but each one has taught me valuable lessons about resilience and growth.
9. Practice Self-Compassion
We can be our own harshest critics. I used to beat myself up over mistakes or missed opportunities, but I’ve learned that self-compassion is a much more powerful tool. Treating myself with kindness and understanding has helped me heal and grow, rather than holding me back in shame or guilt.
10. Stay Curious
Curiosity is a driving force behind learning and growth. As I get older, I’ve made it a priority to remain curious and open to new experiences, ideas, and knowledge. Whether it’s picking up a new hobby, reading books outside my usual interests, or exploring different cultures, curiosity keeps life exciting and helps me evolve.
11. Trust Your Intuition
Intuition is a powerful, but often overlooked, tool. Over the years, I’ve learned to trust my gut instincts and let them guide me in making decisions. When I stop second-guessing myself and simply listen to what feels right, things tend to fall into place more effortlessly.
12. Simplify
Clutter—whether physical, mental, or emotional—has a way of weighing us down. Over time, I’ve learned to simplify my life. By decluttering my space, reducing unnecessary commitments, and clearing mental clutter, I’ve created room for what truly matters.
13. Be Present
The more I focus on being present, the more joy I experience in everyday moments. We often get lost in the past or the future, but the only moment that truly matters is now. Being fully present allows me to enjoy my experiences, connect deeply with others, and appreciate life as it unfolds.
14. Laugh More
Humor is one of the greatest tools we have for navigating life’s ups and downs. Laughing more—at myself, at the absurdities of life—has helped me lighten the load and keep things in perspective. Life is too short not to enjoy the ride, and laughter makes everything a little bit easier to handle.
15. Take Care of Your Body
We only get one body, so it’s crucial to take care of it. I’ve learned to prioritize exercise, healthy eating, and sufficient rest. When my body feels good, my mind follows suit, and I’m better equipped to handle life’s challenges.
16. Let Go of Guilt
Guilt can be paralyzing, but I’ve realized that holding onto it serves no one—especially not me. Letting go of guilt has allowed me to move forward with greater clarity, confidence, and a sense of peace.
17. Seek Growth, Not Approval
For much of my life, I sought approval from others—whether it was in my career, relationships, or personal goals. But over the years, I’ve come to understand that seeking approval from others will only limit my potential. True growth comes from within, not from external validation.
18. Trust the Process
Patience is key. Trusting the process, even when things aren’t moving as quickly as I’d like, has been essential for my growth. When I let go of the need for immediate results, I’m able to appreciate the journey and the lessons along the way.
19. Embrace Change
Change is constant. I used to resist it, but now I’ve learned to embrace it. Change brings new opportunities, growth, and transformation. When I stop fighting it, I find that change can be a beautiful catalyst for positive shifts in my life.
20. Live Authentically
Perhaps the most important lesson I’ve learned is the power of authenticity. When I stopped trying to fit into other people’s expectations and started living true to myself, everything began to align. Living authentically has attracted the right opportunities, relationships, and experiences into my life.
As I continue this journey of growth and learning, I invite you to reflect on your own experiences. What lessons have shaped your path? How have you embraced the challenges and joys of life?
I’d love to hear your thoughts—let’s continue this conversation. Leave a comment below, share your own lessons, or tell me how these insights resonate with you. Together, we can empower each other to grow, thrive, and live authentically.
Let’s start a discussion: What’s one lesson you’ve learned that changed your life?
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