It’s that time of the year again - my birthday. Each year, I take some time to reflect on my learning and the decisions that have led me to where I am today. I don’t compare myself to others; I only compare myself to myself a year ago. That’s the only thing that matters.
Last year was significant in terms of personal growth for me. I’ve closed some chapters, taken risks, and made big decisions. To celebrate this milestone and document my growth, I compiled a list of 36 lessons I’ve learned along the way that I wish I had known sooner.
These lessons are broken into 3 categories, 12 lessons each:
Life & Spirituality
Love & Relationships
Business & Friendships
This will be a quick and informative read!
Life & Spirituality
Let go of fixating on one particular outcome. When you stop trying to control the result, every outcome becomes the right one.
Have trust and certainty that you will find your way. Let go of a scarcity mindset.
Learn how to compartmentalize. It makes life a lot easier.
Appreciate everything, attach to nothing. That’s how you keep a clear mind and sharp focus.
Anything you’re struggling with right now is likely the result of a decision made from a place of lack. Make your decisions from a place of abundance.
Own every decision you make and take responsibility for it—even when it’s easier to play the victim.
Not every “sign” is from the Universe. Sometimes it’s just your pattern on repeat. Learn the difference.
Embrace your shadows. That’s how the light gets in.
Your nervous system doesn’t lie. Listen to your body more than your logic.
Learn how to say no to anything that doesn’t serve you or distracts you from your long game.
If you don’t make a decision, a decision will be made for you.
Welcome every situation—good or bad—and learn from it.
Love & Friendships
It can be real, but that doesn’t mean it’s realistic. And just because there’s history doesn’t mean there’s a future.
The kind of love you crave starts with how you treat yourself.
Always choose yourself first, then choose who chooses you.
First, know your worth. Second, regulate your emotions. Third, never settle.
Some things have to end for better things to begin. Learn how to confidently close chapters.
Friendships evolve. Some expire—and that’s okay.
Surround yourself with people who are further along, if you want to keep growing.
Everyone in your life is a mirror of you. Look closely, and you’ll find insights.
Boundaries don’t push the right people away—they help you see who’s meant to stay.
When someone shows you inconsistency, believe them. Patterns speak louder than words.
Learn to let go faster. The longer you hold on, the harder it is to receive what’s next.
Change is part of any relationship—romantic or platonic. Let it evolve, or let it go with grace.
Business & Entrepreneurship
Don’t wait to feel ready. Clarity comes after action, not before it.
Networking is not about asking. It’s about connecting. Give value before you expect anything back.
Learn to lead yourself before you lead others.
Protect your time like it’s your most valuable currency—because it is.
Success doesn’t come from doing everything. It comes from doing the right things consistently.
Ask better questions. That’s how you get better answers—and build better businesses.
Saying “no” is a skill. So is asking for more. Learn both.
Your intuition is a powerful tool. Don’t silence it in the name of logic.
Commit to the journey and to the people who are on it with you.
Just because it’s working doesn’t mean it’s sustainable. Learn when to pause, reassess, and quit.
Don’t underestimate the compound effect of showing up when it’s not exciting. That’s where momentum is built.
Keep your vision clear, but your grip loose. The how may change—but the why should stay rooted.
That’s my list—36 lessons, lived and learned. Some were gentle nudges. Others were loud wake-up calls. But each one shaped me into who I am today. If any of these landed for you, I’d love to hear which ones and why. And in the meantime, I’m off to celebrate!
