On the week of my birthday, I thought I would share a short post with 35 things I’ve learned in my 35 years. This is by no means an exhaustive list, but more a collection of the most important thoughts in my head. I have learned a lot in my 35 years as a girl, a teenager, a woman, a mother, a friend, a boss, a wife, a sister, a daughter and a city worker in London. But none of this really falls into place until you take a step back to think about your life and appreciate what you have in the here and now. If motherhood has taught me one thing, it’s to appreciate the moment. Whether you look back at those times of hell with a newborn screaming all night, or the joys of your one year old taking their first steps, all of these (sometimes trying) moments, make us who we are now…and probably a lot stronger.
This post was inspired by one I recently read by another blogger – Liz Adams of Sequins and Stripes – who I absolutely love (you must follow her if you don’t already). Liz writes about 32 things she has learned in her 32 years and it got me thinking, about how I would like to share my own things that i’ve learned, and if they are in any way useful to anyone, or inspire you, then great. This world of social media and blogging is a funny because it really does make you think about your own life in so many different ways. I use it as a really positive tool and platform, and I learn so much from others every day in this space, which I am supremely grateful for. I really hope this post encourages you to think about the things you’ve learned, in a positive way, and I would love to hear your thoughts.
Lisa
xoxo
My 35 things…
- Travel travel travel – the beauty of the world will give you memories that you will cherish forever
- Be kind – always. You never know who you’re talking to and what they are going through
- Appreciate your body no matter what the shape or size – it can do wonderful things
- Do what makes you happy – even if that means taking a risk
- Don’t judge others – everyone has their own shit going on
- Make memories – everyday. Even if it’s just going to the park with your kids.
- Learn to relax – this is the hardest thing for me as I hate doing nothing!
- I store too much of my life on electronic devices – note to self to get a paper diary!
- Buy the clothes – you only live once
- Smile – it will light up your face, even on the worst days
- …But sometimes it’s fine to lose it too – we all need to do that every now and then
- Wear what makes you happy and wear it for you, no one else
- Flats are always a good idea – my heel days are long gone sadly!
- Get some fresh air – whether in or out of London, summer or winter – it will do you the world of good
- Never diet – just enjoy everything in healthy moderation
- …Exercise though – even if it’s just a little bit every week. It will change your mental and physical health
- My daughter is our world
- …And her daddy is the best husband and father
- Read – it will open your mind
- Always be you – because you can be no one else
- Trust your instinct – it is usually right
- Always stand up for yourself and what you believe in
- Social media is here to stay, so we just have to learn to embrace it – but consciously
- Be patient – a hard one with kids I know but it pays off
- Your mum is/was always right
- Date nights are key to a happy relationship – especially when you have children. You need that 1:1 time
- Sunshine makes me happy – I live for my holidays
- Grow your own fruit and veg. Even if it’s just a tomato plant – it will bring you so much joy
- There is no better sound than your child laughing
- Work to live, dont live to work
- There is no such thing as a ‘happy ever after’ – your life is what you make it
- Mental health is just as important as physical health
- Comparison is the thief of joy. Just be yourself
- Get a hobby – it will give you a new lease of life
- Love hard – especially your family, but even more so yourself
Shoes – Gucci
Skirt and earrings (Camille) – Baukjen
Jumper – Zara
Bag – Gucci
