30 Things I’ve learned and strive to live by, in the last 30 years:
30. Alone Time
Spending time with yourself is just as important as human interaction. Breathe, meditate, read, write, etc.
29. Sharing is caring
Sometimes we need to vent or just let out some feelings. Have one or two people you trust that you can call on.
28. Have a go-to prayer or mantra
You don’t have to be religious to pray. And no matter your religion you can have a few words that you repeat to yourself when times get rough.
It can be as simple as “you got this.”
27. Have Hobbies
Mine include writing, reading and practicing yoga. Try something new, you never know what you will like till you try.
26. Practice healthy self talk
“I am worthy. I am light.”
25. Know when to say no.
You don’t have to make every party or take every call.
24. Know when to say yes.
Sometimes pushing yourself to take that class, go to that concert or going on that date is exactly what you need.
23. It’s okay to give up timelines.
Some timelines are okay to let go of. The main person pressuring you to do something by a certain time; is you.
22. Be proud of your accomplishments.
Don’t be bashful. You know when you did good!
21. Be humble.
Know that you are human. And everyone has the same potential as you.
20. Focus on the good in people.
Not really feeling someone’s energy? That’s ok. Focus on at least one thing you appreciate about them. Who knows… maybe they’re not that bad.
19. Work, spend and save.
Decide what is important to you. For me it’s traveling. Some of my hard earned money goes to that. Spend! Just be smart about it. Make sure you also save.
18. Dream
Every success story first started as a dream. Plant that seed and watch it grow.
17. People don’t think like you.
Our reactions are based off of our own opinions or values. And not everyone shares those same thoughts. Learn to accept that.
16. Some people won’t like you.
Maybe its them. Maybe its you. Maybe your energy just doesn’t vibe with someones else’s. And thats okay.
15. Not worth the fight.
Know when to walk away from a heated conversation. The last word doesn’t always feel as good as you think it will.
14. Know when to speak up.
Some things need to be addressed. If something or someone offends you, tell them. If you think you deserve a raise, let your boss know.
13. Make time for people you love.
None of us make it out alive. So while you’re here. Give some time to those you care about, and care about you.
12. Kill them with kindness.
No matter the issue. Be kind to those involved. Also be kind to yourself. Kindness always wins. Getting your point across to someone doesn’t have to be harsh.
11. Take responsibility.
There is no shame in admitting when you’re wrong. It’s mature. And healthy. Taking responsibility is an important step in self realization. Also know when to apologize.
10. Never apologize for being YOU.
No matter your race, religion, sexual orientation, physical or mental limits… you are perfect.
9. Being Grateful
Being thankful for the blessings you have can change the trajectory of your life. Don’t focus on what you don’t have. What you have is yours. Be grateful.
8. Honesty really is the best policy.
Even when it hurts. Tell the truth. So much easier than carrying around the baggage of lies.
7. Live in the present.
Not to say you can’t ever look back on a life lesson or make a plan for the future, but the past is gone. The future is not here yet. Breathe. Take it all in. Don’t miss the view. Listen to the music. Taste the food. Feel alive.
6. No one is perfect.
Everyone is working on or through something. You’re not alone. Knowing this can help you get through some hard times.
5. You can always start over.
In the blink of an eye you can choose a different kind of life. New home? New career. Want a new life? Go for it. It’s your own journey to walk.
4. Forgive others
We have all been wronged by someone. Forgiving them sets you free. Not them.
3. Forgive yourself
Some of us walk around with guilt. All you can do is make the choice to let it go and live in the moment.
2. Trust that there is a bigger plan.
You are exactly where you need to be. Be content in knowing we are all in this together.
1. Love, love and keep loving.
Whether it’s other people or yourself, keep fighting for love. It’s the greatest gift of life.
EDITED by Ingrid Jagrup.