Life Lessons I’ve Learned by 32 (And Counting)
Time flows like a river, carrying moments of joy, sorrow, and discovery.
The years pass, whispering lessons we may not be ready to hear. "In every turn, a seed of wisdom," a quiet voice seems to say, "and in every fall, a chance to grow."
At 28, with an empty wallet and a mountain of debt, I discovered how life’s lessons often arrive unannounced.
That moment of panic nudged me to re-evaluate, take risks, and dare to dream bigger.
Now, as I reflect on 32 years filled with growth, mistakes, and unexpected joys, I see how each experience – whether a gentle nudge or a harsh wake-up call – has shaped me.
These are 32 lessons that continue to guide my journey.
Family, Friendship, and Connections
1.Not all relationships last forever, and that’s okay. Letting go of toxic connections makes space for healthier ones.
2. Family can be complicated, but love doesn’t have to be. Appreciate the people who are there for you, blood or not.
3. Friendship is about quality, not quantity. A handful of true friends outweighs a roomful of acquaintances. I remember a time when I tried to juggle multiple social circles, only to feel drained. It’s those quiet, meaningful moments with close friends who truly understand you that leave the greatest impact.
4. Boundaries are a form of love, both for yourself and others. Learn to say no without guilt.
Growth, Self-Acceptance, and Perspective
5. It’s okay to be a work in progress. Perfection is overrated; growth is where the beauty lies.
6. Your mistakes don’t define you. They’re lessons that guide you to a better path.
7. Comparison is the thief of joy. It’s easy to get distracted by others' achievements, but your path is unique and worth celebrating in its own right.
8. The only competition worth having is with yourself. Aim to be a better version of you, not someone else. Starting over, again and again, has taught me the power of resilience and staying true to myself. When I took a career detour at 30, it felt daunting to leave behind everything familiar. But each fresh start brought clarity and reaffirmed what truly matters to me.
Work and Productivity
9. Your job is not your identity. You’re more than a title or a pay cheque.
10. Burnout is not a badge of honour. Rest is productive, too. Working on a cruise ship taught me this. The relentless demands of long hours and constant motion left me drained, both physically and emotionally.
11. Take pride in your work, but don’t let it consume you. Balance ensures that your achievements are meaningful without overwhelming your life.
12. Every skill you learn adds value. I’ve dabbled in content creation, digital marketing, and even e-commerce – making me a jack of all trades, master of none. Yet, every attempt has added something new to my toolbox, proving that nothing is wasted if you approach it with curiosity.
Money and Practicality
13. Save for rainy days, but don’t forget to live today. Balance frugality with enjoyment. At 28, staring at an empty wallet and a mountain of debt, I learned the importance of balancing careful planning with bold decisions to rebuild and grow.
14. Financial literacy is empowerment. Understand where your money goes and make it work for you.
15. Experiences often matter more than things. Memories outlast possessions. Being broke taught me to value moments over material things. I once believed souvenirs were the hallmark of a great trip, but now I cherish the memories far more.
16. Start small, but start now. A little saved today grows into a lot tomorrow.
Adventure and Exploration
17. Travel isn’t just about seeing places; it’s about understanding them. Slow down and immerse yourself.
18. The journey matters as much as the destination. Some of the best memories happen in transit.
19. Pack light. You don’t need as much as you think.
20. There’s no ‘perfect time’ to go – just go. The world won’t wait for you. Travelling has been my greatest teacher, offering perspectives no classroom ever could. Getting lost in Keelung – not because I couldn’t retrace my steps, but because I chose to move forward – led me to discover hidden streets in a seemingly abandoned residential area. That detour turned into an unforgettable experience.
Health and Wellness
21. Listen to your body. It tells you what it needs if you’re willing to hear it.
22. Mental health is just as important as physical health. Seek help when you need it.
23. Small habits add up. Whether it’s drinking more water or moving a little each day, consistency matters.
24. Slowing down doesn’t mean falling behind. In a fast-paced world, taking the time to breathe and reflect can do wonders for your health and clarity. It’s a reminder that rest and recovery are integral to moving forward with purpose.
Life’s Hard Truths
25. Not everything goes to plan. Learn to pivot when life throws you a curveball.
26. Pain is inevitable, but suffering is optional. Perspective changes everything.
27. The world isn’t fair, but it’s still beautiful. Look for the good, even in the hard moments.
28. You’re stronger than you think. Trust yourself to handle what comes your way.
Happiness and Gratitude
29. Happiness is found in the little things. A kind word, a warm cup of tea, a moment of silence – cherish them.
30. Gratitude shifts your perspective. Focusing on what you have rather than what you lack brings peace.
31. Laugh often. It’s the cheapest therapy and the best medicine.
32. Celebrate the wins, big and small. Life is made of moments worth savouring. Just as I reflected at the start, these small victories remind us that growth comes from embracing every step of the journey.
Final Reflections
These lessons are by no means universal truths, but they’re mine – a collection of experiences, reflections, and discoveries that have shaped who I am. Some were learned the hard way; others came as quiet realizations. And I know the learning doesn’t stop here.
What lessons have shaped your life so far?
