30 Lessons At 30: Reflections On Life, Health And Happiness

So I had a big birthday on the 24th of March. Life is wild and time is such a fascinating concept to me. These birthdays kind of sneak up on you. One day, you’re at school where your most considerable stress is looking cute at the Friday social, then the next, you blink a few times, and your twenties are gone, but your stressors feel larger and all-consuming. The trick is to have the tools to manage them.

I feel like I have been through a lot over the last decade, dealing with death and grief, working through autoimmunity and chronic injuries and health conditions, ending relationships and friendships, feeling insecure in my job and career, having fertility struggles, changing family dynamics, and being anxious about my health and life. But then also… moving cities multiple times, travelling a lot, meeting beautiful souls all over the world, graduating from multiple institutions with higher education, climbing the corporate ladder to senior positions, learning what love is and falling in love with myself, training to be a yoga teacher, buying property and investments, developing and growing myself to build greater self-awareness and independence.

Turning 30 is a milestone that comes with a mix of reflection, gratitude, and excitement for what’s ahead. Over the past decade, I’ve learned lessons that have shaped the way I view life, health, relationships, and personal growth. Some came from experience, some from challenges, and others from unexpected moments of clarity.

Here’s what I’ve learned at 30 — I hope they resonate with you, wherever you are on your journey.

Life & Perspective

1️⃣ Life is short; time is your greatest currency. Spend it wisely — on people, experiences, and moments that truly matter.

2️⃣ Money isn’t everything, but it helps — to a point. Financial stability brings freedom and security, but beyond that, happiness comes from elsewhere.

3️⃣ If you have grandparents, talk to them. Their stories, wisdom, and love are priceless.

4️⃣ Your parents can be your best friends. The older you get, the more you realise the less time you have with them, and they’re just humans doing their best.

5️⃣ Love exists beyond romantic relationships. It’s in friendships, family, community, yourself and the little things in life.

6️⃣ Solitude brings healing. Being comfortable with yourself and your thoughts is one of the greatest skills you can cultivate.

7️⃣ You don’t have to give everything to everyone. Protect your energy — it’s a choice that is not selfish but necessary.

8️⃣ Materialism is a waste of time. If it all disappeared tomorrow, what would really matter to you? Probably not your possessions.

9️⃣ Being alone and being lonely are two different things. One is a state of being, the other is a feeling. Don’t get them confused.

🔟 Travel is the best education. New places, cultures, food and people expand your perspective and open your mind more than anything else.

Mindset & Growth

1️⃣1️⃣ Worrying is stressing twice. You don’t need to stress your nervous system before the situation happens and again if it actually happens — let go of what you can’t control.

1️⃣2️⃣ You don’t always have to chase happiness. Sometimes, peace of mind or accepting where you are at for now is enough.

1️⃣3️⃣ Learning meditation will bring you so much peace. Even a few minutes a day can change how you handle and respond to stress.

1️⃣4️⃣ Life is a mystery to enjoy, not a series of problems to solve. Not everything needs an answer — a bit of uncertainty is exciting, some things are meant to be lived through.

1️⃣5️⃣ You should care what certain people think, but not everyone. The opinions of those who truly care about you matter — most others don’t.

1️⃣6️⃣ All emotions are valid. How you respond to them says more about where you are than the emotion itself.

1️⃣7️⃣ More money can be made, but memories last forever. Prioritise experiences over things.

1️⃣8️⃣ Being spiritual isn’t about religion. But for some, religion is part of their spirituality — both are valid.

1️⃣9️⃣ Over-sharing with a stranger can be unexpectedly therapeutic. Sometimes, you just need to release things without fear of judgment, and to someone with an unbiased view.

2️⃣0️⃣ Your breath is a superpower. It can shift your nervous system, calm your mind, and bring you back to the present. Learn a few breathwork techniques.

Health & Well-being

2️⃣1️⃣ Your body is always communicating with you — listen to the signs. Your energy levels, digestion, skin, and mood are all signals. The more you tune in, the better you’ll understand what your body needs.

2️⃣2️⃣ What you eat is important, but don’t overthink it. Food is fuel, nourishment, and an experience — enjoy it, don’t obsess over it.

2️⃣3️⃣ Finding an exercise you love changes everything. It’s not about forcing yourself through workouts; it’s about movement that feels good for you.

2️⃣4️⃣ Yoga is a way of life, not just a physical practice. It’s about presence, breath, and connection — on and off the mat, 24/7.

2️⃣5️⃣ Stress isn’t always bad. It’s a necessary biological response, but you need tools to manage it in a way that serves you.

2️⃣6️⃣ Your body language and eye contact say a lot about you. Confidence, openness, and presence often speak louder than words.

2️⃣7️⃣ Learn and remember people’s names. It’s a small act of respect that makes a big impact.

2️⃣8️⃣ Healing isn’t just physical. Your mental, emotional, and spiritual health are just as important to look after and have practices for.

2️⃣9️⃣ Trust that YOU can heal YOU. Your body, mind, and intuition know more than you think — listen to them.

3️⃣0️⃣ You will never stop learning, and you’re always growing. There’s no rush to ‘know everything’ — just keep moving forward and enjoying the proces.

As I step into 30, I’m grateful for the lessons, the growth, and the experiences that have shaped me. I know there’s still so much more to learn, but if there’s one thing I’m sure of, it’s this: Life isn’t about having everything figured out — it’s about showing up, staying open, and embracing your journey.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned so far? Let’s chat in the comments!

With love and balance, my Friends x