As I step into my 30s, I have learned to recognize what is most essential in life. We constantly give advice to our peers, judge our neighbours, and believe we have it all figured out when in reality, the majority of us are running in hamster balls, not saying „goodnight “to our significant others, are upside down on our mortgages, and are simply going through the motions of daily life while putting on a front. As a millennial, I am offered advice, evaluated, and often mocked daily, but the one thing I cherish that many others lack is happiness. I have also learned the value of wearing comfortable shoes and having an extra hair tie. Still, most significantly, I know what makes me happy, a trait many seek.

1. Reconciliation and forgiveness are unrelated

Forgiveness is not about the other person but about letting yourself rid yourself and others of toxic anger, resentment, or destructive emotions. For instance, you can forgive someone who has wounded you, even if they do not apologize. It is not about them or the connection but about you and enabling yourself to have space for other great people and healthy sentiments in your life.

2. Seek direction from people you admire

If you’re anything like me, you’re probably tired of hearing „words of wisdom “from people you know. People like to feel important, so regardless of whether you ask for their opinion, they will give you their two cents on anything from relationships to real estate to finances. So, unless you admire that person, listen, nod, and smile before casting that advice over your shoulder and moving on. Instead, listen to the recommendation of individuals you respect and appreciate.

3. Spend quality time by yourself

You must constantly make time to be by yourself, recharge, laugh, and relax, regardless of whether you are a mom or grandma, a 40-hour-per-week worker!, or a CEO! So take a getaway, go for a run, call in sick, and, for at least one full day, just be YOU. You will love yourself more if you are rested, at ease, and upbeat. And the fun fact (your co-workers, spouses, family, employees, and friends will like you more ), do this only for yourself. 

4. The only day that is ALL ABOUT YOU is your birthday (In my case)

Because it’s the one day a year when I get to make the decisions, celebrate and do whatever makes me happy. I never work on my birthday; instead, I take a vacation or spend the entire day doing everything I love with the people I care about.

5. Read

“The man who never reads lives only one. The reader lives a thousand lives before he dies.” George R. R. Martin, One of the best resources for your intellect is the library. A fantastic resource is Goodreads.

6. Spend some time outside

Nature can aid with depression and anxiety, according to studies. Mother Nature is highly therapeutic, whether hiking, camping, surfing, paddle boarding, jogging, or taking a stroll on the beach. Because it’s the common human dream, many individuals work hard to find love, settle down, and start a family. Nevertheless, many never find true happiness. Don’t follow what society tells you to do; follow your course.

7. Choose your fights

I’ll never know why people argue over politics or publish offensive things on social media. Decide what is worthwhile to fight for. I will not argue with my friends and family over small matters. 

8. Words, once spoken, cannot be taken back

You can never take back anything you express. But, unfortunately, we’ve all had moments where we lost control and shouted regrettable things. Words can break people’s hearts, so use caution when speaking.

9. Embrace terrible days as they come, but know when to get help

There will be days when you don’t feel like getting out of bed when everything appears to be going wrong, and maybe even when you think your life is ending. Those times and days will pass, but if they don’t, ask for help, talk about your feelings, and never hide behind your mask because doing so will only worsen these times and days.

10. Clear out the clutter

We accumulate far too many unnecessary possessions. Go through your home, closet, and garage once a year, and donate whatever you haven’t worn or used in the last 12 months because you obviously don’t need it. I have a rule: I must donate an outfit or a pair of shoes from my closet for every new pair of shoes or clothing I purchase. I also make an effort to shop primarily at thrift shops. 

11. Become more environmentally conscious

Even if you don’t compost your waste or drive an electric car, you may at least preserve the world by being aware of how much trash you make each week and finding ways to reduce it. Recycle, avoid buying disposable utensils and plates, pay attention to Amazon packaging, carpool, drink tap or filtered water from your faucet, and pick up garbage when you see it.

12. Strangers will become friends, and friends will become strangers

It’s okay if some of your friends and you become less close. Friendships require a lot of work, and if both parties are unwilling to put in the effort, the relationship may not be worthwhile in the long run. On the other hand, making new friends can happen at any age or level of coolness.

13. Discover a new hobby

I eventually started writing in 2020 after wanting to do so for a long time. I had no idea what content writing was all my life, and now I’m constantly asking people what niche they feel most at ease with. So take up a new hobby and make yourself more formative and resourceful.

14. To each their own conflict

You can never wholly understand someone else’s struggles. They could seem thriving, cheerful, and in good health on the surface, yet they might be going through some of the worst times of their lives. So, embrace, forgive, listen, and be kind to others.

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