20 Things I Learned In My 20s
As my twenties come to a close and my thirties begin, I wanted to take time to reflect on what I’ve learned so far in life, both about myself and in general. I can honestly say that I welcome my 30s with wide open arms for many reasons. First, I will never regret or feel sad about growing older because it is a privilege denied to many. Second, I am literally a 90 year old woman stuck inside a 30 year old body, so each year I am actually getting closer to my true age (lol). Lastly, I felt like my 20s were amazing. Yes, it had its fair share of sadness, stress, heartache, and disappointment, but it was also full of excitement, laughter, and love. I lost 4 people who held special places in my heart: my great-grandmother, two grandfathers, and an old friend. I broke hearts and had my heart broken. I stressed and worried about school, work, living with centipedes (lol), living with roommates, not feeling smart enough, not feeling good enough, and disappointing people I love. But at the same time, I got my Bachelor and Master degrees (my proudest accomplishments to date), wrote a thesis, made wonderful friends, traveled the world, met my soulmate twice (once on purpose when I was 20 and again by chance when I was 23), got the job of my dreams, became financially independent (my second proudest accomplishment to date), bought a house, got promoted twice, got engaged, and fell in love with adorable nieces and nephews. If that was my roaring 20s, I know my 30s will be even better because I have 3 key things that I didn’t have when entering my 20s: a greater sense of self (and self-worth), best friends who range from being 5 to 58 years-old, and the love of my life by my side.
Life Learnings Thus Far
There’s nothing that a long run or a call to my mom can’t fix.
The world will never run out of places I want to visit.
There is no “right” time to do anything; everyone is on their own path and timeline, and that’s ok.
Soulmates do exist and few people are lucky enough to find theirs.
The bond between sisters is perhaps the most special bond in the world.
The secret to having it all is knowing that you already do.
It’s ok to say no.
You only get one body in this life; treat it kindly.
My morning and evening routines are the only things that keep me grounded and sane in life.
Confidence is quiet, insecurity is loud.
Early to bed and early to rise truly makes me feel healthy, wealthy and wise.
Being a good listener is more important than being a good speaker.
The little things in life are actually the big things.
The people I admire most know who they are and are unapologetically themselves.
Re-defining what success means to me vs trying to achieve society’s definition of it is the most liberating thing I’ve ever done.
All relationships are a two-way street.
The people who truly care about me will always advocate for my happiness above their own.
My mom is the definition of beautiful (both inside and out) and is my forever best friend.
Minimalism is the key to happiness.
Mental, physical, and emotional health are one-and-the-same.
My Surprise 30th Celebration
A few weekends ago, my family threw me a “surprise” celebration, full of many of my favorite things, including but not limited to: tons of fruit and veggies, baby Donovan, my sister (in town for the weekend), and rose gold everything. My mom is the sweetest person and even created a “Renee Trivia Quiz” with a prize for the winner (my sister won). Donovan also had a blast - I can’t believe how big he is getting. It was extra special because my grandparents were both visiting so it was a full family affair! It was such a special day and I couldn’t have asked for anything more.
