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:

1. Starting a gratitude practice was one of the best things I ever did for myself (and others!)

2. Gratitude is great, but acknowledging your achievements as well is a game-changer

3. Don’t waste time worrying about what other people think of you

4. My home is my sanctuary and I love spending time there

5. Yoga is my happy place

6. Breathwork practices changed my life

7. I don't need a busy life to feel content

8. It’s only hair, it grows back

9. It's almost never as bad as I think it’s going to be

10. Life is better when I set boundaries

11. Fill your space with things that make you happy, plants, books, candles, whatever soothes the soul

12. It’s never too late to start, and you can start over and over again if you want to

13. I can’t predict other people’s needs

14. Investing in myself is worth it, every single time

15. Take time to notice the moments in between, there’s magic there

16. 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

17. It was always inside me, I just needed to recognise it

18. I’m not overreacting, I’m feeling it in my own way

19. String music speaks directly to my soul

20. I need to keep doing the things that scare me, they help me grow and feel alive

21. Community is everything, surround yourself with like-minded people

22. You’re never too old for music festivals! You just need VIP tickets ;)

23. 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

24. 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

25. Don’t rush, it doesn’t all have to be done today. Take each day, each moment, and each breath as it comes

26. The answer is always no if you don’t ask

27. Whatever you are going through, you will get through it

28. It’s ok to feel, it’s safe to feel

29. I am my own worst critic, other people probably didn’t even notice

30. When I take the chance and open myself up, magic happens

31. There will be some people out there who don’t understand me, agree with me, or even like me. That doesn’t matter

32. Have people in your corner who will catch you when you fall and walk next to you as you make your way back

33. Keep listening, stay open and curious

34. Don’t settle

35. Stop comparing yourself to others!

36. Stay present and enjoy this moment now, it won’t come again

37. It doesn’t have to be perfect, it just has to be true

38. If you need a day in bed, a good cry or to shut yourself away to process, do it

39. Don’t be so scared you stop living

40. Keep it simple, make it sacred

41. Spend time in nature, it heals

42. 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