Life lessons from a 30-something Certified Birthday Girl
8 things I would tell my younger self.
It’s true what they say, as you grow older, you’re also becoming wiser… or maybe this is actually showing my age?
Whatever it may be, as I sat in my garden earlier today enjoying the last of the British sun, sipping on my iced coffee (I know, so basic), I reflected on the last 12 months and beyond.
Life can actually be very simple but we’re often the ones to complicate it. And quite rightly so. Why should we settle for less when we can have more, if we want it? Why stop at something good when you can have something brilliant? I guess it comes down to what you believe your strengths are, what you value the most, your purpose and of course, your personal circumstances.
Whether we’ve been lucky enough to find our true purpose, our perfect job or the partner of our dreams, we all have some things we wish we had known a lot earlier to minimise any feelings of stress, sadness or confusion. And to enjoy life a lot more.
So, if I was to compile a list of my simple truths and advice (work and personal), to give to my younger self, here’s what I would include:
First impressions count, make an effort. People may not remember exactly what you said but will always remember how you made them feel.
Find yourself a good external career mentor. A mentor will be valuable throughout your career, not just for helping you find a new role.
Invest, invest, invest! Start early and you will set yourself up with a good chunk of change down the line!
Find a way to move every day. Our body needs movement and our mind feels the benefits too!
Don’t be afraid to start again. New job, new city, new friends. Life is about exploring and trying different things, and you’ll learn more about yourself on the way.
Lead a healthy lifestyle but don’t punish yourself. If you want to skip the gym to go for cocktails, do it.
Give back to the community. Donate what you can when you can — time, money or your skills.
Don’t let others dim your shine. Celebrate your milestones and successes. Only you know the struggles you faced to get there!
On a final note, if you’re also celebrating your birthday this month (September), hope you have an absolutely fabulous day. Treat yourself and create some special memories!
If you made it this far, thank you for taking the time to read my special birthday blog. As always, comments and questions are welcome. You can get in touch with me by commenting on my articles or on my socials provided below.
Looking forward to connecting with you!
Jenika
PS Any more Drake fans reading this? :)