Turning 23: The Lessons I Learned In Year 22
Hi. Do I seem different to you? Probably.
It must be because I’m 23 now. You guessed it, I had a birthday.
I know you don’t just magically change overnight, but I legitimately feel different when I wake up on my birthday.
I’m not going to lie, I am a bit sad about this one. I loved 22. It was everything I wanted and more. I achieved the three big goals I had set for the year: solo backpacking in Europe, moving to Hawaii, and launching my blog. Most of all, I had FUN.
On turning point days like today, I like to reflect on what I’ve learned and how I’ve changed. Here are the things I’m taking away from the past year of life.
The Lessons I learned in year 22
1. Let loose.
Have fun and be unapologetic about it. Do spontaneous things, break some rules, and take risks. Take advantage of your youth.
2. If you have to beg someone to show up for you, it is better that you walk away.
I cannot tell you how many people I have fought for who didn’t fight for me in the same capacity. To be loved by you is precious. Don’t keep pouring it out to people who don’t see that.
3. you won’t vibe with everyone and that’s okay!
You don’t have to like everyone. Not everyone is your vibe and you won’t be everyone else’s either. Just be respectful and kind and mind your own.
4. Go.
Stop holding yourself back. Do the thing. Leave the environment that no longer serves you. Book the damn flight. Go.
5. It’s okay to just “be.”
You don’t have to be moving constantly, jumping from one task to the next, and checking off the to-do list. Slow down. Enjoy where you are. Be.
6. Those who are “your people” may change
Some people are only meant to be in your life for certain chapters. Understand that’s normal— and who knows, maybe they’ll come back and be in the sequel.
7. When you release pain from your spirit you will physically feel lighter.
Doing the inner work is crucial, don’t put it off.
8. Your dream life can be your reality.
…if you are willing to get a little creative and take the steps to make it happen.
9. You can be all the things you wish you could be.
When I was mid-21 I really started to rethink everything. I felt like I didn’t know who I was. I thought maybe my ideas of the person I wanted to be just didn’t align with my nature. I told myself: “I’m naturally anxious.” “Maybe I’m not brave enough to be a backpacker.” “Maybe I don’t want to move away and travel.” I was wrong. I could be everything I wanted to be. And in year 22 I became it.
Year 22 you were FUN. You were full of belly laughs, adventure, release, and most importantly, full of Lila. 23—let’s see what you got!
