If he was around, my Grandpa would no doubt remind me that I am entering into my 30th year. So while I celebrate my 29th birthday this week, I want to reflect on 29 lessons I learned since 28. Or, as he would say – 29 things I learned during my 29th year.
- Surround yourself with people that push you. Personally and professionally.
- Consider getting a dog. When the going’s tough, they’ll make sure you get out of bed in the morning.
- You don’t really need a TV. But you do really need dry shampoo.
- I’ve lived long enough to know that when people say, “It won’t matter 5 years from now”, it’s absolutely true.
- Trust your gut. You know more than you think you know about some things.
- Support other women and celebrate their successes. Mentor other women.
- Hangovers hurt worse than they did last year.
- Practice what you preach – it’s ok and highly encouraged to take rest days.
- Columbia jackets are no-strings-attached lifetime guaranteed. I know because I replaced 2 this year.
- There’s no more satisfying feeling than to pop off sets of strict pull-ups as the lone female in the globo-gym.
- Say “yes” when you’re peer pressured into physical challenges. Crossfit Open, Tough Mudder, Granite Games all turned out to be great decisions.
- Progress comes in short sprints, not marathons. I mean this in terms productivity and time management, but also in terms of double-unders.
- Jersey style pizza > Chicago style pizza.
- You CAN win money at pull tabs.
- Always be willing to spontaneously see Brandi Carlile in concert.
- It’s not pretty when you cry. It’s even less pretty when you hold it in. Let that shi*t go!
- Get a coach. Even if you’re a coach, get a coach.
- There [still] is no upper limit to egg consumption.
- Sometimes nutrition coaching is just impeccably timed emojis.
- You’re gonna miss costume parties if you don’t seek them out.
- You don’t have a business when you have a website. Or a logo. Or a flashy social media presence. You have a business when someone pays you to help them with something – even if you’re doing that from your phone, sitting at a coffee shop. The other stuff comes in time.
- They always say change is uncomfortable and it really is. But when you’re going through changes, there is always Adele and there is always Beyonce.
- Don’t think the worst – it’s not always about you.
- I am better at bowling than I am at golfing. And that’s not saying much.
- Prioritize the time you spend with those who are not threatened by your successes, gifts and talents.
- People might think you’re weird for inquiring about their poop – but it’s cool. You know “gut health” is the most important health topic of the future and it’s awesome that you’re passionate about it.
- Temporary tattoos are still cool. Especially when applied by strangers. Over wine. At a cabin.
- The universe will give you what you need.
- Take the time for walks with friends. That’s when the best conversations happen.