Today I say goodbye to 24 and hello to 25!
When I was about 10 years old, I think at 25 I expected myself to be studying veterinarian medicine, engaged and living with my significant other (and our three dogs) in our chic apartment in the city. I mean back in the day, couples were getting married fresh out of college graduation and had successful careers by age 30, because they were able to obtain a job in their career field 6 months post-grad. Wives would become stay-at home moms while the dads brought home the bacon. Nowadays so many women are so career driven and aren’t thinking about kids until their mid-late 30’s. Online dating has become such a big thing because let’s be honest, its really slim pickings out there these days. The divorce rate wasn’t as high as it is today and neither were monthly apartment rents. Technology and social media continue to dominate. Who knew so much would change in 15 years!?
Despite the pressure and expectations that come with turning 25, I wake up everyday and count my blessings. I have a roof over my head, a beautiful view of the Williamsburg Bridge from my window, a job (in my career field!), good health insurance and supportive family and friends.
I notice as you get older, certain things that used to bother you, don’t even cross your mind anymore. You learn to let things go and focus on YOU. Focus on your needs, your goals, your happiness, YOU. You gotta be selfish sometimes and learn to really self-love.
Stop comparing yourself to others’ success and beating yourself up for not being in their shoes or living as lavishly as they do. You can’t worry about them. You gotta worry about your next steps and your road to success. Stop chasing after friendships that have become one-sided and require too much effort. Time is very precious and time you waste on someone who isn’t worth it– you’ll never get that time back. Stop wasting all that energy and invest in you. That’s the biggest lesson I learned at 24.
24 was a great year for me filled with so much learning and personal growth. I can walk away from 24 proud of the woman I am today. I’m really looking forward to 25. It’s definitely going to be a good year. I’m ready to welcome this year with open arms and expect nothing but continued happiness, success and good vibes.
What a great post and happy birthday!
Author
Thank you!