Tomorrow I turn 35. Mid thirties. This age that has been a dividing line in my mind for a very long time. It means next year I get to compete in the 35-39 age group in all running & duathlon events, over 35 category in WBFF bikini. I am officially in my mid-30s. And I finally decided it was time to dye my hair & cover a few greys.
But I’m not old, I simply have 35 years full of experiences under my belt. I actually have had more angst over this birthday than any before, but I’m settled in it now. It’s just a number anyway, right?
I originally saw this idea of life lessons on Katie’s blog a few weeks ago and thought it was an interesting one. Ignoring the fact that my list will include 8 more items on it, I knew immediately this was something I wanted to do.
And remember – there’s always someone older and younger than you. So don’t get caught up in what your number says. You can remind me of that if I start to lose perspective.
35 Lessons for 35 Years
- Smile every day. Especially when you don’t feel like it.
- Learn to listen. It’s a valuable skill in all areas in life.
- Start saving money for retirement as soon as you start working.
- Do silly things as often as possible. It’s great stress relief.
- Travel often. Experiences last longer than things.
- Don’t put your health on the backburner. Exercise, eat right, visit the doctor.
- Make time to do nothing. Relax.
- Going through life is better with a friend. Even better when your spouse is your best friend.
- If you are unhappy, do something about it.
- Give away a portion of your money every month to support a cause you believe in.
- Learn another language. Or at least try.
- Be friends with people who are different than you.
- Save monthly for the important things. Like vacation. Vacation funds make life fun!
- Pay off your credit card every month. If you’re in debt, make a plan to get out & stay out.
- Try new things. Don’t let fear hold you back!
- Learn when to put down the camera and live. But also to pick up the camera and capture memories.
- You don’t need everyone to like you.
- Support those around you. Always look for ways you can help your family, your friends, your co-workers.
- Live your beliefs, don’t compromise for others.
- Always look for opportunities to learn new things.
- Explore your city. Where you live has its own wonders and is often overlooked.
- Inspire someone to do something.
- Don’t be afraid to fail. You will regret things you’ve never tried more than risks that didn’t pan out.
- Admit that you don’t know everything. But try to learn something new every day.
- Don’t compare yourself to others, unless it’s motivate you to improve!
- You can choose your attitude, regardless of the circumstances.
- Don’t save the good stuff for special occasions. Sparkling wine makes a Tuesday night special!
- Life gets better with age!
- Don’t go to bed mad. Talk it out, yell it out, work it out. Whatever it takes.
- Eat your veggies.
- When someone gives you a complement, say “thank you”.
- Complaining regularly is not good. Not for you and not for others. Don’t make it worse by complaining often on social media.
- Drink more water.
- It’s okay to change your mind.
- You will make mistakes. Put them to good use and learn from them.
[Tweet “Sharing 35 life lessons for 35 years – @fitaspire is sharing her birthday #wisdom.”]
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Questions for you:
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What life lesson have you learned recently?
