Things I know

Last month I turned 30, and I thought I’d share some of the things I’ve learned along the way. Here’s to many more to come.

1. I know that I love repetition and routine. It’s how I stay focused and organized.
2. I know that taking breaks does wonders for my productivity and creativity.
3. I know that people like to hear others call their names. I know I do.
4. I know the importance of praising in public and criticizing in private.
5. I know that people can be more forgiving than you think when you own up to your mistakes.
6. I know how to cook and how to enjoy cooking.
7. I know how to run and how to enjoy running. I never thought I could.
8. I know that I can soothe myself in times of crisis. I went through a couple of mentally tough periods in 2020–2021, and I’m so glad I was able to be kind to myself.
9. I know that listening is a crucial skill. If you can listen well and show others you do listen to them, you’re already speaking volumes.
10. I know that it’s okay to say “I don’t know.” If you can and want to, say “But I will find out.”
11. I know that I should be patient with myself and others.
12. I know that delivering feedback is an art that really takes practice and patience to master.
13. I know that there’s joy in anticipation.
14. I know that I’ve successfully quit social media.
15. I know that my love languages are acts of service, quality time, and physical touch.
16. I know that I have to learn how to avoid paralysis when I hear the question “How is everything going?” or “What’s new?”
17. I know that I’ve become more introverted in the last couple of years, and I’m good with that.
18. I know that it’s okay to change my mind. We change and evolve.
19. I know that it’s okay to not enjoy going out and socializing as much as I used to.
20. I know that I don’t enjoy drinking alcohol as much anymore.
21. I know that when things get tough and I feel like giving up, I have to keep going.
22. I know that I feel things deeply.
23. I know that I have to start somewhere before I can get to where I want to be.
24. I know that journaling helps me tremendously. It’s free therapy.
25. I know that I like to be silly.
26. I know that I can be a big sap while watching movies.
27. I know that taking a moment each day to feel grateful changes how I see everything.
28. I know that I have a job with a great level of flexibility, challenge, and autonomy.
29. I know that I wouldn’t enjoy my job as much if it weren’t for my colleagues.
30. I know that it’s good to have something to look forward to, and it’s equally important to enjoy and savor the moment.

This was inspired by Mari Andrew and Sasha Chapin, who shared their life lessons in this format and motivated me to reflect and put together this post.