Thirty One Life Lessons

Today I turn thirty-one. I can't believe it. When I was a teenager I remember thinking that people in their thirties were OLD and didn't like to have fun. While I'm not sure that any of that is true for all thirty-somethings I know that I am a fun-loving, silly, thirty-one year old Mommy who loves to be silly with the kids and teenagers in her life.

In honor of my birthday I thought I would post thirty-one life lessons I've learned over the years.

1. It's perfectly fine to make mistakes. It's the best way to learn.

2. We are responsible for making our own happiness.

3. Silence is golden and essential to my sanity.

4. We must first love ourselves if we are to truly be loved by others.

5. You will never be "100%" ready for things in life, so trust your instincts.

6. Life is short, live it right.

7. Change is good; hard.... but good.

8. It's important to dream.

9. Time spent stressing over anything is time wasted.

10. Never let fear control you.

11. Choose wisely how and with who you spend your time.

12. Less is more. Say and buy less, listen more.

13. Choose your friends carefully.

14. We don't need much (stuff) to be happy.

15. By loving ourselves we become better friends, partners, parents and all around better people.

16. Serve others and let them serve you.

17. Enjoy and savor every moment.

18. We are stronger and more resilient than we think we are.

19. Never sell yourself short.

20. Complaining, criticizing, and gossiping are a waste of time.

21. Stop being a victim and be a leader.

22. Forgiveness is easier than we think.

23. It's easier to find fault in others much easier than seeing the faults in ourselves.

24. Naps are good. It's okay to sleep in, sometimes.

25. When you feel nervous, stressed or anxious get on your knees and pray.

26. Everyone has the need and/or desire to create something.

27. When you passionately believe in something it can and will change you.

28. Learn to say no. If you don't want to do something - go to a party, accept an obligation, meet someone- just say "no, thank you." You don't owe anyone an excuse or explanation.

29. Never give unsolicited advice! I can guarantee you that it is not wanted or needed.

30. Stop rushing through life. Slow down and enjoy it.

31. Don't ever let a day go by without telling your loved ones you love them and how much they mean to you.