Categories: Life

24 Things I’ve Learned in 24 Years

WELL, today is my birthday!

Would you guess that I’m 24?!? Most people think I’m a bit older– hopefully because of my personality and the fact that I’m married rather than my appearance lol

I figured I would make a list of 24 things that life has taught me thus far. Some of these things are fairly recent because I’m always learning 🙂 Be sure to share in the comments something that life has taught you recently or one of the things on this list that resonated with you!!

1. Sometimes people just want to be heard

You don’t always have to have something to say to make someone feel better. Most of the time, it makes people feel better if you are just willing to listen.

2. It’s okay to cry

I hate crying. Every time I’ve gone to therapy and I’ve cried, I feel like I have to apologize. Or any time I’ve had a horrible day and need to cry to my husband: I apologize. But why? It wasn’t until my therapist called me out on it that I realize I do it. Don’t negate your feelings and give yourself permission to be sad/grieve/be frustrated.

3. Marrying someone who makes you laugh every day is a wise choice

Looks will fade and life can throw you all sorts of curve-balls, but if someone can make you laugh through all of the ups and downs of life, it makes things a million times better.

4. Always wear sunscreen

Sunburn and wrinkles isn’t a good look for anyone.

5. Don’t deprive yourself of good food

Everything in moderation. Don’t starve yourself of homemade brownies– it’s okay to treat yourself every once in a while.

6. Saying “no” doesn’t make you a bad person/jerk/(insert negative)

You don’t have to be a doormat for everyone in your life.

7. Always start with a positive

When recalling something or a story, start with the positive of the experience first, it’s amazing how it will shift your perspective and make you feel like you’re counting your blessings.

8. You can never be over educated.

9. It’s hard to grow your faith inside your comfort zone

It’s the things that push us that make us grow in every way.

10. Being out of place and different is not a bad thing

11. Try to make a list of all of the things you’re thankful for as often as you can

It’s amazing how it will make you more positive and not take things for granted.

12. Life isn’t a competition– build others around you up

13. You don’t get to take anything with you when you die

Invest your time and money accordingly.

14. Take any opportunity you can to travel and see something new

Your view of the world is limited if you only see one part of it!

15. Never sleep in your makeup

16. Surround yourself with people that bring out qualities that you love most about yourself

You’re going to pick up qualities of the people you surround yourself most with. Pick those people wisely.

17. Drinking enough water can change your life

Still working on this one 😉

18. Don’t invest in people who don’t want to invest in you

You get to pick your friends. Choose ones who build you up, not tear you down.

19. Frequently tell the people that you love that you love them

As an ICU nurse, I’ve seen too many people die and family members come who hadn’t spoken to the deceased in a long time. There are so many regrets. If you’re holding onto a grudge or fighting with someone– ask yourself, “if that person died tomorrow with things reconciled, how would I feel?”. You really never know what kind of curve-balls life will throw!

20. It’s the little things in taking care of yourself that make all the difference!

Taking the time to do your hair, keeping your nails well maintained, etc.

21. Know how to make a nice go-to meal and cocktail

You never know when you might need that skill!

22. Take your vitamins!

23. You only get one run around this earth so make it count

Don’t look back on your life with regrets of places you should have gone, things you wish you had seen, experiences you wish you had. Just make them happen!