Happy Birthday To Me! And Tidbits I've Learned Along the Way

Turning 35 this weekend gave me the perfect excuse to pause and reflect on the lessons I’ve picked up over the past year (and maybe a few from before that). Life has a way of teaching us exactly what we need, even if we don’t realize it in the moment. Here’s my attempt at capturing what I’ve learned, with a mix of big truths, little reminders, and the kind of wisdom that sticks:

Intention is Everything

In both life and work, intention matters. Every choice we make has energy behind it, and it’s worth asking “why” before diving in. This year, I’ve tried to focus less on outcomes and more on enjoying the journey. One of my favourite mantras has been: “I choose to move joyfully through the world.” It’s such a simple reminder to lead with purpose and positivity.

Stay Open

Openness has been a guiding principle for me this year. Through movement, mindset, and heartset, I’ve tried to embrace change and welcome opportunities. Life doesn’t always go as planned, but staying open lets me move with it instead of against it—and that’s where the magic happens.

Celebrate Often

We tend to wait for the big wins, but there’s so much joy in celebrating the small victories, too. Whether it’s a work milestone, a personal achievement, or simply making it through a tough week, life deserves to be celebrated. Turning 35 this weekend reminded me to embrace the joy in these moments—like spending the day with my besties and reflecting on this new chapter.

Stay Interesting

One of my favourite reminders: don’t let work define you. Stay interesting through hobbies, experiences, and a constant curiosity for life. Whether it’s traveling, trying something new, or diving into a creative project, keeping your curiosity alive makes life richer. Find what excites you and own it unapologetically.

Make Friends at Every Age and Stage of Life

Friendships aren’t bound by age. Some of the most meaningful connections I’ve made this year have been with people much older or younger than me. There’s something so beautiful about learning from others’ perspectives and sharing wisdom across generations. A couple of my dearest friends this year are 70+, and they’ve taught me so much about living fully and authentically.

More Lessons from My Trip Around the Sun

Your health is your wealth. Take care of yourself now so you don’t have to later.

Get out of your comfort zone. Growth comes when you challenge yourself.

Put your phone away often. Be present for the people and moments that matter.

Life happens for you, not to you. There’s power in this perspective shift.

Self-love isn’t selfish. You deserve it daily.

Remove your ego. It’s amazing how much lighter life feels without it.

Self-esteem and self-confidence are skills. Cultivate them with care.

Manage your emotions. You’re your own responsibility.

Celebrate the small things. Joy hides in the details.

Keep unlearning and relearning. Growth is a lifelong process. Society has a lot left to learn. Diversify your perspectives and where you seek advice.

Find your values and practice them. They’re your compass.

Life’s too short to be everyone’s cup of tea. Embrace being unapologetically you.

Network effectively. Relationships are everything.

This year has been a mix of lessons learned and lessons I’m still working on. What I’ve realized is that growth isn’t linear—it’s a constant journey of reflecting, resetting, and moving forward with intention. Here’s to another year of staying curious, staying open, and embracing life as it comes.