57 Things I Have Learned

Today I celebrate my 57th birthday, and as I look back on the journey so far, I realize how much life has taught me.  These lessons have helped shape the way I live and how I see the world. I decided to write them down, not only as a reminder to myself but also as something to share with those who might find a spark of wisdom here.

Life is always a work in progress, and I know there’s still a lot more to learn, but here are 57 truths I’ve gathered along the way.

1.    You can’t want more for someone than they want for themselves.

2.    Be kind - you don’t know what someone else is going through.

3.    Listening is often more powerful than speaking.

4.    Forgiveness is a gift you give yourself.

5.    Comparison is the thief of joy.

6.    Boundaries are a form of kindness - to yourself and to others.

7.    Silence is very powerful.

8.    Tomorrow is not guaranteed.

9.    You aren’t for everyone, and that’s ok.

10. When no appointment is made, there can be no disappointment.

11. Focus on the good, and the good will come into focus.

12. Gratitude turns what you have into more than enough.

13. Don’t borrow sorrow from tomorrow.

14. Be careful with hate. When you reject an entire group, chances are someone you love belongs to it.

15. Perspective is everything: what you call a setback might be a setup.

16. The life you’re complaining about is someone else’s dream life.

17. Sometimes, not getting what you want is the best thing that could happen.

18. Less judgment, more curiosity.

19. Frustration is a signal to pause - three deep breaths can reset your response.

20. Don’t let anyone dull your sparkle.

21. Wisdom often comes from mistakes, not successes.

22. It’s never too late to revise your life story.

23. Surround yourself with people who make you to feel emotionally safe.

24. Don’t be afraid to say, “I don’t know.”

25. You are stronger than you think.

26. Sometimes the best therapy is a long drive with a great playlist.

27. There is little growth in your comfort zone, and there is little comfort in your growth zone.

28. Have grace for yourself and others – most of us are doing the best we can with the information we have.

29. Before you speak – ask yourself, “Is it true, is it kind, is it necessary.”

30. A walk in nature can solve problems your mind cannot.

31. Turn off the news, get off your screen – go out into the world and interact with people.

32. Begin with the end in mind.

33. Contentment and happiness are not the same thing.

34. Don’t be afraid to walk away from what isn’t right.

35. You cannot control the world around you – you can only control the world within you.

36. Enjoy the process, not just the outcome.

37. Act from pure intentions.

38. Anger is a secondary emotion. Pause to uncover what’s truly beneath it.

39. Don’t make assumptions – ask questions and have conversations.

40. Joy is contagious - spread it generously.

41. Sometimes the detour is the destination.

42. Don’t let perfection hold you back – nothing is perfect.

43. Be a Froot Loop in a bowl of Cheerios.

44. It’s ok to outgrow relationships – maybe they were in your life for just a season.

45. Let go of everything that isn’t yours to carry.

46. Don’t waste your time trying to change someone’s mind – just live in your own truth.

47. Just be YOU - the people meant for you will find you.

48. Other people’s opinions of you are none of your business.

49. If you’re trying hard to fit it…you don’t belong there…go find your people.

50. Resentment is a poison that only kills you.

51. You don’t need to preach for people to know what you stand for – just live authentically, and your message will be heard.

52. Don’t lose yourself trying to make other people happy.

53. We only have this moment – live in it fully.  

54. Keep your loved ones alive by telling their stories.

55. Choose to live in awe of the beauty around you.

56. If it costs you your peace, it’s too expensive.

57. Let the past go, keep moving forward and never, ever stop dancing.