As I enter into the last year of my twenties I'm suddenly reminded of the latest episode of Girlfriends that I watched. You know the episode where Joan is celebrating her 29th birthday? She mopes around her swanky LA law firm telling everyone that she's turning 26. She lies because she's told herself that turning 29 with no husband or children isn't good enough. The irony is that she's by far the most successful of her friend group and is actually pretty damn good at her job. And although at the end of the episode we discover that Joan has been promoted to Junior Partner at her firm. She's still not happy.
In this moment I've come to the realization that up until today I was being Joan. Not the part about telling everyone that I'm turning 26. I'm proud of 29 (I look good for my age). But in reality I too got caught up in what I thought was missing so much that I almost missed the blessings that I have. Unlike Joan, I have the husband and the baby it's the career piece that's missing for me. And although I like my job (and I'm thankful to have one, especially in times like this) I'd be lying if I said my birthday wish wasn't to freeze time so that I can enjoy my vacation a little while longer.
After all of this reflecting and a couple of episodes of Girlfriends I started to think of all of the things I'm not missing in life and the many important lessons I've learned along the way. These lessons that have helped to shape my twenties and make me the woman I am today. If I can be completely honest, a couple of these would have helped Joan, Mya, Lynn and Toni along the way. So, in no particular order here are a couple of my favorites.
Gratitude is Golden: Life is short, instead of focusing on what you don't have. Take time to show gratitude for what you do. The best way to show appreciation to God and yourself is to show gratitude. I even started journaling each day what I'm grateful for and it's been huge paradigm shift for me. It's really helped me to celebrate the small things and enjoy life.
Silence speaks the loudest: This one came with age & wisdom. You don't always have to be the loudest person in the room to get your point heard. Hell, sometimes it's what you don't say that makes the most noise. Like the old saying goes "it's not what you say, but how you say it" speak your truth but remember everything doesn't always need to said.
Hard work trumps talent and luck: This one is pretty self explanatory. Hard work will take you places that luck can't. Put your head down and DO THE WORK! This is a lesson that I'm learning right now.
You are only as happy as you make yourself: We are in the era of self-love so why not make sure you are happy? It's pretty simple. If something doesn't serve you, it doesn't bring you joy or it costs you your peace. It's too expensive.
Comparison is the thief of Joy: I've kind already touched on this, but stop comparing your life to others. It's unproductive and very unhealthy. Instead focus on all of the good things that God has provided in your life and focus on showing gratitude.
We all have these little lessons that we've learned throughout our journey of life. The best part is that we can share them with each other in hopes to inspire. What are some lessons that you've learned? I'd love to hear. Comment below and let's get the conversation going.
As always, thanks so much for reading!