When I turned 20 I started a series where each year on my birthday I make a list of the things I learned that past year. Looking back, I can find posts for 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25, but it seems like I didn’t learn anything of note by 26…? I guess there weren’t any new insights to share.
To that point, as I go back and read the lessons I still agree with all of them and the examples are helpful, but in reality they can be boiled down to a few key themes.
To celebrate my birthday from earlier this week, I’m sharing the only 3 things I think are worth focusing on. Enjoy!
Mindset
There are so many books and podcasts and talks that all have advice on improving your mindset. You have to find what resonates best with you, but the key takeaway is that
There is nothing good or bad, but thinking makes it so
William shakespeare
At the end of the day we have the power to form our own opinions and internal talk tracks about our lives, so let’s make them positive.
Relationships, Experiences, Health
These are worth investing in! Building strong, fulfilling relationships with others and yourself is what gives life meaning.
Seeking new, interesting, and thought provoking experiences makes life (and you!) well rounded and intriguing.
Prioritizing your health will ensure that you can continue to enjoy your relationships and experiences for a long time to come.
Work hard and the rest will follow
We can only control ourselves and our efforts. So if you can go to bed each day and be confident that you did your best and worked your hardest, the rest will follow. I’m not suggesting that everything will just magically work out (you have to make sure that you are strategically putting your efforts towards goals that will bring your happiness and you are setting yourself up for success), but I am saying that once you let go of what you cannot control you will be free!
What are your top lessons as you reflect back on the previous year? Any key themes I didn’t hit on?
Leave a Reply