HAPPY NEW YEAR!! 🥂🍾 Although this will be my first post of the new decade, I’ve actually been working on this one for a few weeks now. I recently turned 37 (December 10th) and honestly I’m still trying to figure out how I feel about this new year of life. It’s one of those ages where you really start to feel your age; mentally, emotionally & physically. And although I’ve mostly enjoyed my 30s, I’m learning that there is so much that this decade brings. With each new year of my 30’s, I’ve learned more and more about myself, friendships, relationships and what I want for my future self.

I’ve shared some lessons learned in my 30s in previous blog posts. You can read them here and here.

Confidence comes in waves but it definitely grows the older you become.
Friendships will change due to marriage, babies, careers, distance and time.
Go to therapy. Whether you have things in your past you want to resolve or you just want to be a better version of yourself. Investing in your mental health is so important.
Travel as often as you can. Whether it be solo, with a significant other or with friends.
Talk to your parents more. They have a lot to teach you and advice you’ll need for later in life.
Stop getting caught up on your flaws. They are what make you, YOU.
Take more photos so you can have the memories to look back on.
Spend time alone. Learn to enjoy your own company above anyone else’s.
It’s okay to NOT be okay at times.
Forgive the people that hurt you or treated you unfair. Not for them, but for yourself.
Get your finances in order. Pay off any debts. Build your credit and create a budget for yourself.
Learn to say “NO” more. Especially to the things that don’t serve a purpose in your life.
Success isn’t defined by just one thing. Everyone can be successful in their own way.
Don’t wait for “someday”. If it’s on your heart and mind, do it NOW.
Life will throw some unexpected things your way. It will be difficult. But you will get through it.
Get in the habit of asking yourself if your daily routine is aligned with your goals.
Talk to your parents about their wishes for end of life care. It is NEVER too early to have this conversation with your loved ones. Although it’s difficult, It brings so much peace of mind!
And then make a plan and discuss your wishes with your friends & family. Having a living will is easy to have drawn up and can be updated as life events occur.
Celebrate the BIG and SMALL things in life.
Don’t be afraid to meet NEW people. Sometimes we make new friends in the most unexpected circumstances.
Don’t rush LOVE. Your time will come and it will be worth the wait.
Wear the swimsuit. Nobody is looking at your cellulite or worried about the extra lbs you’ve gained.
Stop comparing yourself to others. Live your truth.
Work on yourself for YOURSELF. Not because you think it will change someone else’s opinion of you.
Communicate. Even when it’s uncomfortable or awkward.
Friendships take work just like any relationship. Invest your time with those who are willing to invest in you as well.
Check on your strong friends. They may carry it well, but they often need your support the most.
Spend the money on getting your hair cut/colored, getting your nails done, waxing or tanning. If it makes YOU feel good, it isn’t money wasted.
Healing from your past is necessary.
Stop wasting time trying to “fit in”. Being yourself is so much more powerful.
Save some money for “in case of emergency” situations. You never know what unexpected things may come up. Or when you may need to leave that job you hate.
Find things that you’re passionate about outside of your career.
Make use of your nice things. Break out the China you were given, use the Champagne flutes you were gifted, drink the expensive bottle of wine you’ve been saving.
Save keepsakes: cards, menus/napkins from places you’ve been, concert tickets, etc… One day you’ll want to look back on those moments in time.
Be patient with yourself. You’re growing. You’re healing. You’re doing the best you can.
Live in the moment more.
Embrace your 30s. They are sure to be the most challenging yet rewarding years.