34 Things My 34 Years Have Taught Me About Life

It's official, I am now in my mid thirties.   Today is my 34th birthday and I wanted to write a post that reflects on the last 34 years, so I am going to share some life lessons with you. Below, are 34 things that I have learned along the way.

1: Small changes equal big results

Sometimes it's hard to make drastic alterations to your life but small changes are quite easier to adopt. Instead of going on a crash diet, cut out sugar three days a week and vow to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day. Soon you will see big changes that are lasting.

2: Be a believer, not a cynic

It's much easier to tear down a wall than to build one. We live in a very cynical world that doesn't need another cynic. Choose to build the wall.

3: Generosity goes a long way

Always say thank you and be generous and thoughtful whenever possible.

4: Don't believe everything you hear

Be careful of both giving and receiving advice. Most of the time you already know what to do and most of the time people who ask for advice don't really need it.

5: Step out of your comfort zone

Comfort zones are comfortable for a reason. It doesn't matter if your steps are big or small, what matters is that you are taking a stride.

6: Choose active over passive whenever possible

Take the stairs, walk, ride a bike, etc. an active lifestyle has both physical and emotional benefits that are lasting.

7: Just say yes

Try not to limit yourself. Try new things and gain new experiences along the way.

8: Pay it forward

If someone aids you in a time of need, be sure to return the favor.

9: Be yourself

The original is always better than a carbon copy.

10: Nothing external can make you happy.

Nothing external can make you happy, however the right external factors can enable you to find happiness.

11: Don't live to please

Accept that others may not like you.  No matter what you do or say, someone is going to judge you.  Don't let it get to you. Stay true to yourself.

12: Never forget your roots

13: Do not define yourself with negatives

14: Learn to say no

15: Confront your fears head on. Do not run away.

16: Own up to your mistakes

17: No one owns you

18: Explore

Travel the world and learn new cultures and ways of life.

19: You can accomplish way more than you ever imagined you possibly could.

20: Hard work does not equal good results and smart work increases the likelihood.

21: Take a look in the mirror.

If you want to change others you need to start with yourself.

22: Let it go

23: Trust your conscience

Always go with your gut, it's usually the right choice.

24: Comparison is a recipient for mediocrity

25: Just enough to make you happy > never satisfied = more days you'll live happily.

26: You become an average of the 5 people you spend the most time with.

Choose your friends wisely.

27: Nothing is truly original
Everything that needed to be said has been said. We just need it repeated because no one was listening the first time around.

28: The more things you have in your life = more upkeep = more stress

29: A smile goes a long way

30: Never take more than you need

31: Music is life's best medicine

32: Life is short, enjoy yourself

33: If you never try, you'll never know

34: Love yourself
How can you except anyone else to love you if you don't love yourself.

I hope this list gets you thinking about what you have learned so far in your life. Be sure to comment below with your own life lessons. I'm excited to hear about them.