42 Life Lessons in 42 Years
So… I turned 42 this year! 42 feels like a good number to me, and I’m excited about what the next year will bring. The last few years have been a roller coaster, to say the least. There have been some intense lows and many wonderful highs. Riding those waves has taught me to be more contemplative. I’ve been reflecting on the life lessons I’ve learnt over the last 42 years and I felt like sharing them with you. So, In no particular order, here they are:
Starting a gratitude practice was one of the best things I ever did for myself (and others!)
Gratitude is great, but acknowledging your achievements as well is a game-changer
Don’t waste time worrying about what other people think of you
My home is my sanctuary and I love spending time there
Yoga is my happy place
Breathwork practices changed my life
I don't need a busy life to feel content
It’s only hair, it grows back
It's almost never as bad as I think it’s going to be
Life is better when I set boundaries
Fill your space with things that make you happy, plants, books, candles, whatever soothes the soul
It’s never too late to start, and you can start over and over again if you want to
I can’t predict other people’s needs
Investing in myself is worth it, every single time
Take time to notice the moments in between, there’s magic there
Life isn’t only in the big moments, celebrations, birthdays, and achievements. It’s in your first sip of coffee and your first breath of fresh air for the day
It was always inside me, I just needed to recognise it
I’m not overreacting, I’m feeling it in my own way
String music speaks directly to my soul
I need to keep doing the things that scare me, they help me grow and feel alive
Community is everything, surround yourself with like-minded people
You’re never too old for music festivals! You just need VIP tickets ;)
Keep doing the work, it’s scary and challenging and at times you’ll probably want to quit. But keep going, it really is worth it
Embrace all the different parts of yourself. The messy, the light, the dark, and the complicated. Together they create the beauty that is your authentic self
Don’t rush, it doesn’t all have to be done today. Take each day, each moment, and each breath as it comes
The answer is always no if you don’t ask
Whatever you are going through, you will get through it
It’s ok to feel, it’s safe to feel
I am my own worst critic, other people probably didn’t even notice
When I take the chance and open myself up, magic happens
There will be some people out there who don’t understand me, agree with me, or even like me. That doesn’t matter
Have people in your corner who will catch you when you fall and walk next to you as you make your way back
Keep listening, stay open and curious
Don’t settle
Stop comparing yourself to others!
Stay present and enjoy this moment now, it won’t come again
It doesn’t have to be perfect, it just has to be true
If you need a day in bed, a good cry or to shut yourself away to process, do it
Don’t be so scared you stop living
Keep it simple, make it sacred
Spend time in nature, it heals
I am braver than I believe, stronger than I seem, and smarter than I think. Don’t ever forget it
There you go, my 42 life lessons in 42 years. Did any of these resonate with you? Do you have a few special life lessons that are important to you?
Cheers, Jess xx