I turn 29 tomorrow. While I’m not freaking out about it, I’ve been aware of a subtle shift in my attitude and mindset. There’s an undercurrent of “I’m an adult now” in almost everything I do. I’m at that age where I pay a mortgage, but I eat cereal for dinner sometimes. When something reminds me of my childhood and growing up now, I tend to tear up instead of cringe. It’s all very weird and I don’t quite feel prepared for it.
That’s why I’m sharing 28 things I learned while 28, so next year, I can’t say I don’t feel prepared.
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- Just because something feels scary doesn’t mean it has to be scary. Exhibit A: Buying a house.
- It’s okay to ask for help.
- People at work don’t have to like you — they just need to like your work.
- Handwritten notes will take you farther than namedropping.
- The only way to get better at writing is to write.
- Knitting will teach you patience even if you think it won’t.
- A 15-minute walk with a dog acts like a balm to an anxious mind.
- Starting over is always hard. But that’s not a reason to not start over.
- “No” is a complete sentence.
- A mile is the same distance no matter how fast or slow you go. (See #8)
- Making time to bake cookies or a milkbar cake is never a waste of time.
- Starting a daily practice of gratitude will make you more grateful.
- Spraying vodka on something that stinks will take the smell right out.
- Using exclamation points doesn’t mean you’re excited or happy or positive. You can still be “sparkly” and use them sparingly.
- Friends is a revolutionary piece of American television. (I read a book that proved that this year)
- If your goal is to ride Splash Mountain, Thunder Mountain and Space Mountain over and over again without any lines, go to Magic Kingdom on Halloween.
- We are not as special and individual as we think we are, but our stories are unique and mindblowing.
- If you live in a house without a bathtub, you can use a Yeti 125 in a pinch.
- Misting plants is just as important as watering them. (17 ½ : You don’t need to water plants every day)
- 10 foot Christmas trees are just as magical as you expect them to be.
- A 36 hour trip to Chicago to see Hamilton is not practical, but oh man, it’s worth it.
- I don’t have to like what everyone on Instagram likes.
- Apple cider vinegar lemon braised kale is like heaven in a bowl.
- There are few things more important than showing up for people.
- Life is more enjoyable without a chip on your shoulder.
- For the most part, everyone is doing the best they can.
- Running a 5K in a sherpa bathrobe at Christmas time is so much fun (and incredibly warm).
- You can entertain a thought, idea, belief, or concept without accepting it (and you can do that without yelling at anyone, too!).
Bonus: I can impress my college roommate by coming up with 28 things I learned at 28. Thanks coach.