How I’m moving forward in my 30’s (This is very serious).
No fucks given
In approximately 11 days, I’ll be 30 years old- 30 trips around the sun. Damn, time really does go by fast. As someone who’s big on self reflection, I wanted to jot down a few things (or maybe just one, since I don’t exactly plan my posts) that I will be continuing more in my 30’s. I was reflecting on this whilst I was driving the other day (see what I mean). So, let’s start off strong…
Being unapologetically me
My mum asked me how I felt about reaching this ripe age during one of our walks the other day. I babbled on in great depth, true to Emily fashion. One of the best things I’ve cultivated more of—even just in the last six months—is being unapologetically me. It’s something I was cautious about throughout my 20s. I think my confidence took a hit from the bullying I experienced in high school, and looking back, I can see how I wanted to be liked and accepted to fit in. But that approach is exhausting, honestly.
I think it’s definitely true when they say you just don’t care as much about what people think of you as you get older. I see it now as: if we hide parts of ourselves or tone ourselves down to be accepted, we’re letting ourselves down and, in fact, are attracting the wrong people. To find our people—the ones who love us for who we truly are, flaws and all—we need to be fully ourselves. No fucks given.
Being open to new experiences and people
As a self-proclaimed hermit, I intend to put myself forward for new experiences. In my early 20s, I kept to myself, especially when it came to making new friends. I had one best friend who I’d known for over 20 years, but as time went on, we grew into very different people. It’s okay to let go of people you’ve known forever. We’re evolving beings, and some people don’t come along on that journey with us. In the last few years, I’ve pushed myself to be more open to new experiences and people. This year, I joined a netball team, started writing here, and worked abroad. I’m also going to two events in the coming months: one celebrating women in business and another centred around yoga and skincare. All things I love! Do more things that light you up, even if you go on your own.
Gratitude
Gratitude. Just saying it makes me feel warm inside. In my opinion, gratitude is the GOAT. It has the power to shift your mindset, and you can practice it anytime, anywhere! I’ve been big on gratitude for years now. I don’t write lists; I’m more of an ‘in-my-head’ kind of person, reflecting on things I’m grateful for while driving or before I go to sleep. There’s always something. Practicing gratitude grounds you in the present moment and can be especially helpful when we start spiraling about where we think we should be or what we should have. It’s easy to look to the future, but what about appreciating what we have right now?
Okay, that’s 3 juicy ones. I’ll report back when more come through.
Wish me luck guys! I think my 30’s are going to be a good old time.
BIG LOVES
Em
This was great I remember I tried to runaway from my 30s like my life was over! Silly me happy early birthday!
I know it’s cliche but honestly I’ve never been happier than I have been in my 30s. I’ve learned so much more about myself in the last few years than I did in the whole of my 20s.