27 Lessons I Learned in 27 Years

March 25th marks my birthday– this year, I turn 27. I’ve comfortably entered my late twenties, and it’s quite surreal to think that I have done and seen so much of this world in my young life…and there remains a lot more to discover!

I’ve made it a tradition in the last five years to take time off from work to travel for my birthday. I spent the past four years abroad in France, where I took quick jaunts to different parts of the country (Rennes, Dijon, Avignon, Paris…). I’ve since returned to Los Angeles, and instead this year, I’m spending my birthday at home. I’d originally planned to go out-of-state to celebrate, but because of the global epidemic, I’ve since had to cancel it. Hopefully, this shall pass!

Every year since turning 25, I dedicate a post to some “life lessons” I’ve learned so far. So much has happened in this past year than any other year I’d experienced; I feel that I have changed a lot from when I was abroad, now with a life back in the United States. For better or for worse, I am getting older…but hopefully wiser!

I present the 27 lessons I’ve learned after 27 years on this Earth. Some are commonplace, others debatable. But they’re all from the heart, and maybe they’ll resonate with you, too. Here they are, and here is to another year of learning and growing!

27 Lessons I Learned in 27 Years

1. Every day does not have to be an adventure: cherishing the slow moments can be just as rewarding as the fast-paced ones.

2. Finding love is not something to be “accomplished” in life; it happens organically, and it can only grow from there.

3. Careers do not define you as a person: hobbies, interests, and passions do. Never give up on your passions, no matter how much work and life get in the way.

4. You always start out at the bottom career-wise, even with a college degree. Stay humble, put in the effort, and make your work worthwhile for the future.

5. As much as there are shitty people in the world, there are even more who are truly good. Never let the rotten 30% overlook the 70% good ones out there!

6. Always treat workers with respect in the service industry. They put up with a lot of crap from customers, and showing at least common decency can make their day. That, and you will also get to your solution quicker.

7. Do not be overly optimistic, but do not be overly cynical, either. Be “cautiously hopeful.”

8. Coffee can be delicious, if made properly and consumed in moderation.

9. Unless it will put you in physical danger, do not be afraid to tell people off. Being “too nice” will give them the agency to repeat the same *bad* actions, and someone needs to put them in their place. Take initiative on that!

10. There are actually many adults who have not matured since childhood. “Respecting your elders” only holds value if they give you a reason to– don’t let anyone (even if older) act unreasonably towards you!

11. Own up to your mistakes. Don’t make excuses.

12. Find time for your passions. Even if life gets busy at times, making the effort to do what you enjoy can make it more bearable, even pleasurable.

13. Unless you are strapped for money, do not work multiple jobs. It is exhausting, and if you are already making a decent living from one job, why do you need more money? Use that free time for yourself instead.

14. Traveling is incredible, but not everyone can afford nor has the desire to go out. One should not judge people for not traveling, because there are many reasons as to why they can’t or don’t want to.

15. Take time to read up on politics, world news, social issues. Being aware of what is going on outside of home not only keeps you aware of how such issues could affect you personally, but it also makes you more interesting to talk to.

16. Wearing makeup truly makes a difference not only physically, but also mentally. I definitely feel like a different person when I put on a full face, and it can feel incredibly empowering.

17. Weekend adventures in and around one’s hometown can be just as enriching as traveling abroad. Take full of advantage of that!

18. Learning about finances, savings, and credit is extremely important for saving AND spending money. Habits such as budgeting and spending smartly can go a long way, in order to live comfortably and retire later in life.

19. Some things are just worth letting go. From a bad breakup to job rejection, it is essential to move on, despite how hard it may be. You can only become stronger and smarter from that!

20. Drinking and partying really do not hold the same appeal as it had in your early twenties. You would much rather stay at home and have a glass of wine than go out.

21. Take your time. With finding a good job, getting married, having kids…there is still a lot of life to live, even if it feels like it is speeding up. You’ll get to your destination soon!

22. Bureaucracy is painfully slow. There’s a lot of red tape, miscommunication, and incompetency at every corner. But that’s how it’s done, unfortunately…

23. Cherish friends you make in adulthood. They are harder to come by, but they tend to be just as fulfilling as those you made in childhood. It’s a combination of having matured and having more life experiences to talk about– each hangout brings something new to the table, and intellectually so.

24. Being able to joke around and not take life too seriously will make living a lot smoother (and enjoyable!).

25. High school and college-aged students start to look younger and younger with each passing year– it’s scary!

26. Stay close with your family. Even if you’re all busy with separate lives, take time to be with each other. Weekly dinners, a day at the beach, family road trip…anything to keep that bond before it is too late.

27. Know your self-worth. Remain confident in your actions, and do not let anyone sway you from your values.

 

What are some life lessons you learned? Let me know!

 

— Rebecca