Well, I turn 49 today. Not quite sure when THAT happened?! I’m pretty sure it was just yesterday that I kissed my husband for the first time at 30 years old EXACTLY while watching a couple make out at Beaver Lake (a park here in Montreal). But clearly, it’s NOT yesterday. Not even close. I’ve got more wrinkles, more cellulite, and honeys… more wisdom.
So as an ode to turning 49 today (a funky age it feels), and having you ladies (and yes a few guys) by my side, I thought I’d share the 49 things I’ve learned in my 49 years. I’ve learned these life lessons from my friends, family, and from you…
1. Embrace change, for it is the only constant in life. If we don’t know how to evolve, well, life won’t be that interesting.
2. Kindness costs nothing but yields immeasurable rewards. Be kind whenever possible. (Unless the other person is a total a-hole. You have my permission to leave the room). 😉
3. Setbacks are stepping stones to success.
4. Gratitude turns what we have into enough.
5. Trust your intuition; it’s often wiser than logic. Gut instinct of often wiser than our thinking mind.
6. Surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you. Remove negativity and toxicity whenever possible.
7. Failure is not the opposite of success; it’s a part of it. ‘Nuff said. I speak from experience.
8. Take care of your mental health as diligently as your physical health.
9. Every challenge is an opportunity for growth.
10. Practice forgiveness, for it liberates both the giver and the receiver.
11. Stay curious; there’s always something new to learn. I am the eternal student and it makes the journey brighter.
12. Authenticity attracts genuine connections.
13. Believe in the power of perseverance; it can move mountains.
14. Let go of what no longer serves you to make room for what does.
15. Find joy in the simple moments of life. For we will learn down the road that the little moments were the biggest moments.
16. Cultivate a mindset of abundance rather than scarcity.
17. Your worth is not determined by others’ opinions of you.
18. Practice self-care and self-compassion daily.
19. Success is subjective; define it on your own terms. You are the author of your story. Always.
20. Travel expands your mind and enriches your soul.
21. Embrace solitude; it’s where you discover your true self. Never be afraid to be alone- it’s better to be alone than in shitty company.
22. Practice active listening; it’s a gift to others and yourself.
23. The only way to fail is to stop trying.
24. Set goals that excite and challenge you.
25. Learn to say no without guilt; your time and energy are precious.
26. Vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.
27. Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small.
28. Take risks; they often lead to unexpected rewards.
29. Find beauty in diversity; it makes the world a richer place.
30. Be present; life happens in the now, not in the past or future.
31. Seek out mentors who can guide and inspire you.
32. Practice gratitude even in the face of adversity.
33. Treat yourself with the same kindness you offer to others.
34. Strive for progress, not perfection. Stay attached to perfection and you will live forever stuck.
35. Failure is feedback in disguise; use it to course-correct.
36. Let your passions guide you; they are the compass of your soul.
37. The only limitations that exist are the ones you place on yourself.
38. Invest in experiences over material possessions.
39. Find purpose in serving others; it brings fulfillment beyond measure. Giving back matters- no matter how small.
40. Practice empathy; everyone is fighting their own battles.
41. Take care of your body; it’s the only place you have to live.
42. Embrace uncertainty; it’s where endless possibilities reside.
43. Success is not a destination but a journey; enjoy the ride.
44. Make time for laughter and play; they nourish the spirit.
45. Comparison is the thief of joy; focus on your own path.
46. Trust in divine timing; everything happens in its own time.
47. Life’s challenges are opportunities for resilience and growth.
48. Believe in yourself, even when others doubt you.
49. Remember, you are capable of more than you can imagine.
I send you love and gratitude for celebrating another birthday with me.
Love, Erica
Happy Birthday Erica!. Thank you for sharing your life lessons (so far)! They are brilliant and I can tell they are an exact reflection of what you teach and how you live . Simply lovely, inspiring and so true. Love each one.
Thank you and I hope you had a great celebration with family and friends.
Love Carolyn