33 Lessons

As I celebrate my 33rd birthday, I am feeling abundantly grateful for all the things that truly matter. My wonderful community of family, friends, colleagues, and coworkers. All of the experiences I have had up until this point that have shaped me into the person that I am today.

These are the gifts that can’t be purchased and wrapped but only lived and experienced. Reflecting on the entirety of our life experiences, both happy and challenging times, are opportunities to produce rich foundational lessons. If we choose, these lessons strengthen and empower us for our next chapter of life.

Here are my 33 lessons I have been reflecting on and would love to share with you:

1)    The reward is not the outcome, the reward is the person you become in the process.

2)    Inner beauty is priceless.

3)    You are enough just the way you are.

4)    Be present in life moments, engaging all your senses. Actively listen, make eye contact, feel the emotion, share a warm handshake and smile.

5)    Self-care for the mind, body and soul is non-negotiable.  

6)    Kindly decline anything that you do not have the capacity to commit to. This practice will add more margin for you to say yes to those things you prioritize and are called to steward in this season of your life. 

7)    Be excellent in everything for God’s glory.

8)    Dedicate the first moments of your day to God.

9)    Have an intention and expectation of hope and gratitude daily so that it becomes a way of living.

10) The joy of the Lord is your strength.

11)  Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy. The Sabbath is a gift to rest in God and enjoy fellowship with others.

12)  Kindness is your superpower.

13) Treat others the way you want to be treated.

14) A good belly laugh and cry is healing.

15) God is for you, trust His process.

16) Prioritize relationships and family.

17) Your legacy begins now with each person you touch in your circle of influence.

18) Focus on how far you have come, not on how far you have to go.

19) Have fun and play!

20) See challenges as growth opportunities that propel you forward, not as failures that set you back.

21) Abide in God’s presence and talk to Him like your best friend.

22) Walk in every space as your most authentic self.

23) Only accept the fullness of what God has in store for you. Don’t settle for anything less. We were not made for leftovers.

24) You are never too old to make every day magical. String light décor, fresh cut flowers and scented candles are a lovely start.

25) Celebrate every micro-win, including your decision to make up your bed and show up each morning.

26) What you expect will become your reality.

27) Get outside of your comfort zone and challenge yourself with a new hobby or skill.

28) The best is still yet to come.

29) As you reach forward toward your goals always reach behind and help someone else along the way.

30) No experience is wasted.

31) Your story is a gift to the world. Share it.

32) Give yourself permission to pause and be kind to yourself.

33) Being 6 feet tall is even more reason to put the heels on!

Remind yourself that every year older is an opportunity to grow in grace and wisdom. It’s so much more than a number. I have learned that wisdom is better shared so that we can all learn from each other and grow better together.

My hope is that these words will encourage you to reflect on your own journey and lessons gained in the process.

Cheers to year 33!

Love,

Chloe J