Things I learned in my 20s

Last week, I turned 30. Nobody’s mind was more blown by this milestone than mine. It’s not that I didn’t plan to get here, but 30 just feels so grown up and I can’t grasp how I got here so fast.

So in honor of this milestone, I decided to share some of my takeaways from my 20s (gosh, I feel old just writing that). This is not by any means to say that I have it all figured out. I assure you, I do not, but here are a few things I’ve learned — and I’m still learning — along the way.

1. Nobody tells you this, but choice is terrifying. Take baby steps and know that no decision is permanent.

2. Make sure that the people you love know it and know why. Be specific.

3. Your 20s are like a strainer for your social circle. That is ok. No, that is good. The best rises to the surface and that concentrate has staying power, but the liquid is important too. Know the difference, appreciate them both.

4. Take leaps of faith. It’s ok to stumble and fall down, but then cut your losses, learn your lessons, get back up and move on.

5. Let it go. No, but really, let it go.

6. Still, history matters. Embrace it.

7. First jobs are jumping off points. You’re not committing to a lifetime, just a first step.

8. Nothing is worth compromising your happiness. Life is too short.

9. Drink more water.

10. Do what you love. Get good at what you love. Then find ways to make a career out of what you love.

11. Just show up. It always matters, I promise.

12. Sleep is a precious, finite commodity. Savor it. (Editorial note: I strive to do much better on this one in my 30s)

13. When you think of someone, tell him or her.

14. You know that nagging gut instinct you’re feeling? Hate to break it to you, but you should probably listen.

15. Nobody knows what he or she is doing. We’re all winging it. Almost all the time. We just get better at covering it up.

16. Everyone would rather be at home in PJs.

17. Beneath the buzz of our daily hubbub, within the vessels of our our beautiful, strong, capable bodies, lies the very essence of our being — our hearts. Big, radiating, open hearts. People are good. People want to help. And amazingly, we have the power to really do so. Exercise that power. We all rise together.

So, what do you think? Do you agree or disagree? Anything to add?