Finding Yourself by Age 30: A Personal Journey

At half a year away from turning 30, I have been reflecting on my personal journey and what I have learned so far. They say you don’t start finding yourself until 30, and while I used to think I knew who I was, I now understand the truth in that statement. Age is just a number, but there’s something about approaching this milestone that makes things feel different. Here are some of the things I have loved and learned before hitting the ripe age of 30.

The Realization That Every Heartbreak Endured Made Me Who I Am Now

As someone who used to avoid pain at all costs, I used to wish I could skip over any heartbreak and move on with my life. However, I now know that every heartbreak endured made me who I am today. Pain and loss are inevitable in life, but it’s how we grow from those experiences that matter. Looking back, the events I once wanted to forget have actually strengthened me and made me a better person.

Watching The People Around You Follow Their Dreams

At this age, many people are settling down with families or chasing after goals they have always dreamed of. It’s inspiring to see the people I care about take risks and chase after their passions, even if it means stepping out of their comfort zone. It takes a lot of courage to open up to someone again after a painful breakup or to pursue a career path that may not be conventional. It makes me happy to see those I love finding someone who truly makes them happy or going after something they have always wanted.

You Realize That The Best Time Spent Is Enjoying The Simple Things in Life

The party days of the past are long gone. Hangovers hit harder than they used to, and a whole weekend can be wasted feeling sick or unproductive. The older I get, the more I appreciate the simple things in life. A campfire, a good restaurant, a home-cooked meal, a few beverages, or amazing company are all I need to have a great time. It’s better for my health, wallet, and soul. I no longer want to hit the clubs until daylight, hate myself for the money I’ve spent, and suffer from headaches the next day.

You Understand That People Come and Go From Your Life, And You Start To See Who Is Genuine

I’ve had many friends who were around until a boy stepped into their life or a new career progressed. I’ve also had friends who have been there through thick and thin, single, taken, broke, or successful. I don’t give my heart easily, but I can easily tell who is there to fill a void versus those who genuinely care and want to form a bond. Quality is always better than quantity, and the people I want to keep in my life are those who care about me just as I care about them.

You Realize That Life Can Be Taken Away From You Any Moment

While I believe 30 is still quite young, I have lost many friends and family unexpectedly. I’ve come to understand that life can be taken away at any moment. That’s why I try to make the most of my time by chasing waterfalls, going on picnics, lying on the beach, hiking, exploring, learning more about others, and just spending time with genuine people. I also make an effort to let the people in my life know how much they mean to me. Perhaps it’s because I haven’t done so in the past, and now I feel I have to let everyone know how much I appreciate them. Life is a journey, not a destination, and the little things matter.

Life is a constant learning curve, and while it can be messed up, it’s also a beautiful blessing. Approaching 30 has made me reflect on my journey so far and realize how much I have grown. I know I still have so much more to learn, but I’m excited to see where my journey takes me. Age is just a number, and every experience we go through shapes us into the person we are today.