I have recently turned 29. Just saying it gives me chills. That got even worse after reading that “Those under 25 no longer want to be compared to millennials.” Excuse me?!
But don’t worry guys, you will get there. Time is relentless, you know. So what better way to celebrate an otherwise unremarkable birthday, than with a list of “life lessons” from your older millennial aunty?
What follows are 29 things I have somehow managed to understand so far.
Thanks to Kevin Kelly for the idea and the great wisdom. But more than anything, thanks to the gorgeous and balanced part of me that keeps my unstable self sane along this intricate journey.
Things about yourself
1. If you don’t believe in yourself first, no one can do it for you.
2. A thorough skincare routine maintains your skin youthful, clear and glowing (try that out for a while and let me know!).
3. Diplomas, promotions, and wealth don’t define who you are.
4. Shit happens. The problem is how long you wallow in self-pity before snapping out of it.
5. If you feel that something is right (or wrong) for you, it probably is. Listen to yourself and trust your inner voice.
6. You often don’t lack bravery. You lack sleep.
7. Being a high achiever and a great performer doesn’t protect you from failure. But if you are persistent, you will eventually get it.
8. Home is where your loose underwear is.
9. The older you get, the more you miss your “good old days”. But you wouldn’t go back under any circumstances (middle-grade anyone?).
10. If someone tells you something nice, just say “thank you” and smile. Quarrelling over compliments is ungraceful.
Things about others
11. Parents are not superheroes, and they don’t have all the answers. But always ask the right questions.
12. Small acts of kindness can have a great impact on someone’s day, mood, and life.
13. Nobody cares about your belly fat on the beach.
14. Even the strongest relationships come to an end. But there are no wounds that can’t be healed.
15. You can’t expect everyone to love you. And that’s fine.
16. People are generally nice. Assholes do exist, but they are a small minority. And most importantly, they don’t deserve your attention.
17. Questioning others and asking for advice is not a sign of weakness. Everyone can teach you something.
18. You will love people who can’t love you as you deserve, and be loved by people you can’t love as they deserve.
19. There will always be someone you perceive as “more” than you. Let them inspire you. It’s free.
Things about life
20. You don’t need all that stuff. What really matters cannot be collected.
21. It’s never too late to change your mind, make that phone call, or follow your dreams.
22. Your metabolism does slow down after the age of 25. (And that sucks.)
23. Any opportunity missed is an opportunity lost. Be careful what you let go.
24. Never – ever – try to unclog your kitchen sink by yourself.
25. A stroll in the sunshine, a cup of tea, and a good book can be a relief for almost any of your sorrows.
26. There is only one way to getting things done: doing them.
27. Life-changing decisions are rarely just about the money. They are more about the “everything else”.
28. The best French fries are Belgian.
29. Sooner or later, things will fall into place.
What have you learnt in your lifetime? Is there something I should accomplish in my last year as a twentysomething? Suggestions are welcome!
Nadia Musumeci 