Reflections On My 33rd Birthday: 33 Bits of Wisdom I've Learned Along the Way
Another year around the sun, another year I’m ever-grateful to experience the privilege of growing older. At 33-years-old, fresh off the heels of another wonderful birthday, I can’t help but smile as I reflect on the person I’ve become over the last three decades plus — the big-hearted, Taylor Swift-loving, life’s-what-you-make-it kind of person who writes this post today. Here’s a little secret: I used to be scared of the number 30. But after turning 30, and now the big double-3, I’ve come to realize that life in my thirties is not as scary as I originally thought it would be — it’s actually exciting, revitalizing in so many ways. I’m no longer chasing the milestones society tells me to chase. I move at my own pace. I’m no longer comparing my life to those around me. I water my own grass. I don’t dwell on the fact that my life might look a little bit different than I originally planned. Instead, I appreciate the fact that I’m here today — alive and well — living my life IN and FOR every moment, big or small. Enjoying life with my husband, ready for what’s next, equal parts content and eager to see what lies ahead.
When I woke up yesterday, Alex asked me how I wanted to spend my birthday. I told him I wanted to be somewhere outside, a place we could hike together with our dog. I’m a simple girl — and for me, a birthday is really just as good as any other day. He recommended we drive up to Eno River State Park near Durham, NC, so that’s what we did. In the end, it was the best day, one that filled my cup in so many ways. We walked a 3-mile path along the river and through the woods, watched Mogul jump up onto a big tree trunk (it took three tries, but he was determined to get up there), and had the best life chats about love and happiness. We ended the night eating takeout burgers and stopped at a local brewery for a nightcap beer. After a busy, busy day, Mogul was zonked by the time we got home. As for Alex and me… well, we settled on the couch with a nice glass of wine and watched another episode of Squid Game — we’re rewatching season one in preparation for season two which is releasing later this week.
For anyone out there who feels happy, free, confused, and lonely — at the same time or in the best way — just remember… you’re right where you belong. Growing up is supposed to hurt like hell. I’m not the person I am today because I didn’t learn a few things along the way. Here’s my advice: use each step as a stepping stone and take all those bits of wisdom from family, friends, and strangers and bottle them up forever and ever. You’ll be a better person for it, someday.
From me to you, I wanted to end my birthday post by sharing 33 bits of wisdom I’ve learned over the last 33 years. I believe wholeheartedly that life’s but a journey to live and learn. Challenging and tumultuous at times — but always, always worth it.
Happiness is a choice.
Home is wherever you make it.
Don’t ever settle for someone who’s not the someone you deserve. Period. Your person should lift you up and make you feel important — always.
The best things in life aren’t things, they’re memories. Invest more of your time, money, and energy into experiences and take lots of photos to freeze, remember, and reminisce on forever.
Focus on gratitude every single day. There’s always something to be grateful for, even when it feels like there’s not.
Live inspired. Pursue your passions and let your creativity blossom every chance you can.
Comparison is the thief of joy. You will only limit your own potential when you compare your path to that of others.
Emotions make us human. Don’t ever feel the need to suppress how you’re feeling.
Learn to be unapologetic. Not everything needs a “Sorry”.
Everyone knows something you don’t. Listen, learn, and appreciate what others bring to the table.
Travel is one of the most powerful and important things you can do. It will open your mind in ways you never thought were possible. Travel often, travel far, and travel with endless boundaries.
Make time for things that matter.
Never stop learning and educating yourself. Ask lots of questions always.
Don’t make everything a battle. Spend your energy in the right place.
Don’t take criticism from someone you wouldn’t seek advice from.
You never know when the last time you see someone will be the last time you see them. Always appreciate the moments you do get.
The company you keep says a lot about you. Surround yourself with people who lift you up, not those who bring you down. Long story short, choose people who choose you.
Some friendships aren’t made to last forever. Those who truly matter will stay with you through the many seasons of life. Some friendships are only meant to be temporary and that’s okay.
Don’t be afraid to say goodbye to things that don’t work for you anymore.
Change is inevitable. Always, always allow yourself the grace to encourage and embrace change.
Everything you lose is a step you take. If I ever inked a Taylor Swift lyric onto my body, it’d be this lyric.
Do what you want because you want to.
Have standards, not expectations.
Seasons change and so do we.
Your voice has power. Use it to vote for a better future. Use it to encourage others.
Social media is a powerful tool, when used correctly. Choose who you follow wisely, and don’t be afraid to take time away.
Smile more, laugh often, and choose kindness.
Always say “I Love You”.
Remember this: the storm always passes. Even amid the darkest of days, the struggles of today don’t define who you’ll be tomorrow. The sun will always rise again.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
You’re nothing without good health. Eat good food, drink lots of water, exercise your body, and take care of your mental health.
Age is just a number. Don’t let it define who you are and what potential you have left.
These are the good old days.
Cheers x33!
PS — 10 songs that inspired this year’s reflection. (Insert smiley face)
Enjoy!
JBW