25 Lessons I Learned in 25 Years

Last week I turned 25…ah, I swear I just had my 21st birthday. But, I’ve come a long way since then. My 21st kicked off at 9pm in a tight dress drinking way too many Lemon Drops in a loud bar. My 25th started at a 9:30am brunch followed by a day on a boat. Yeah, times have changed. And I’ve learned a few things. As I begin a new age, I’m reflecting on 25 lessons I’ve learned in the last 25 years.

1. Be an good incredible friend

When we leave home, our friends are like our family. We can all have “good” friends, but learning to go above and beyond for those you love builds strong, selfless relationships.

2. Accept your body and learn to love it

This is a killer for everyone, but accepting your body is truly liberating.  Over time, I’ve learned to love my 5′ 3” frame and my lack of sky high model legs. It’s not worth stressing over something you can’t change.

3. Always write thank you cards

My mom hounded my sister and I to write thank you cards for everything and I’m so glad. I write thank you cards for gifts, interviews, job opportunities…anything!

4. Learn to dress for your body type

Your body does so much for you.  Give it the outfit it deserves!

5. Be aware of your weaknesses and know how to combat them

After 25 years, I’m aware of my weaknesses – such as being passive. Being aware of this struggle helps me be assertive.

6. Know when to put your phone down

I lovvve my phone. But, there’s a time and place where I don’t need to check Insta every 10 minutes. Enjoy the people you’re with or what’s around you by putting your phone away.

7. Understand which relationships to pursue and which are not worth your time

This is a tough lesson for sure. But I’ve learned that unless someone, a friend or romantic partner, is willing to give you the effort you give them, it may not be worth your time.

8. Take fashion and hair risks

Hair grows back and fashion is meant to be experimental.

9. Admit your mistakes and apologize

Know when you’re wrong and say sorry. It goes a long way.

10. Enjoy being alone

After moving to Seattle, I really had to learn to enjoy being alone. Now, I love the times I spend by myself strolling through Seattle, shopping, or treating myself to a manicure.

11. Don’t be flaky

Don’t be that person that cancels last minute, is always late, or forgetful.

12. Laugh at yourself

Life sucks if you take yourself too seriously. Learn to laugh at yourself!

13. Call your family

Call your parents, siblings, aunts, uncles, cousins and grandparents more. Your relationships will be so much more meaningful.

14. Understand your finances

Still learning this one! Understanding at an early age how to manage your money, what a 401K is versus an IRA, and how to invest your money will pay off in later in life $$

15. Stand up for yourself and your beliefs

You are too important not to stand up for yourself and what you believe.

16. See the silver lining in every day

I truly believe that my mindset determines how I perceive happiness and my life.  I try to focus on the positive aspects of each day even if it’s as simple as sipping a tasty latte or wearing an outfit I love.

17. Don’t dwell on the past or over analyze mistakes

#NoRegrets. Kidding, we all do things we regret. Learn from your mistakes and don’t beat yourself up.

18. Be present in the moment

So much of life is spent worrying about the future. What’s our next job, when are we getting married, what are we doing after college, how much longer until summer. I really try to be present in the moment I’m in. If I can’t enjoy the present, then what am I looking forward to?

19. Learn how to do “handy man” things

Stop calling a guy to fix your car or your house. Knowing how to put air in my car tires, change a headlight, or do things around the house is empowering and always useful.

20. Know the value of both mental and physical health

Knowing how to deal with anger, anxiety, sadness, or loneliness is just as important eating healthy and exercising.

21. Love your face without makeup

Sometimes it’s not easy…especially when I’m breaking out or haven’t slept enough… hello, puffy eyes! But, I believe loving my face equally when it’s bare or has makeup brings me confidence and happiness.

22. Never let someone tell you no

If anyone ever says you can’t do something, your ideas are too far fetched, or you shouldn’t pursue your ambitions…don’t listen to them.

23. Celebrate the big and small wins

We are used to celebrating our big accomplishments like graduation and a new job. But we forget to celebrate smaller accomplishments like killing it during a presentation, acing a test, or even making it through a tough week. Life is too short not to celebrate!

24. Challenge conventional ideas

No one ever innovated without challenging conventional ideas. Just because you think you should get a corporate job because that’s what you’re “supposed” to do, doesn’t mean it’s for you.  Just because something is done a certain way, doesn’t make it the best way. Challenge it, make it better, and do what’s best for you.

25. Be true to yourself

It’s cliche, I know. But I believe it. At the end of each day, the person we are stuck with is ourselves – and that should excite us!

 What are some of your best life lessons? Comment Below!

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