This is 29

This is my last year in the 20s gang. I’ve struggled and accomplished a lot over the years, and I’m proud of my journey at the macro level. There will always be things to work on for improvement, and we’ll get there one step at a time.

I’ll leave you with some life lessons I’ve learned and practiced.

Have Integrity

Integrity means being honest and doing the right thing, even when no one is looking. Oftentimes, it can be easier to take the shortcut and be dishonest, but where’s the accountability in that? It sucks having to bite your tongue, but the truth goes a long way. People will remember you owning up to the truth rather than the mistake itself.

Celebrate Small Wins; Treat Yo Self

Whether you delivered a project on time or beat your personal record, celebrate your small wins. Reward yourself along the way to boost your morale. It’s okay to treat yourself if you have the means to. If you work hard, you deserve some play.

Take Care of Your Soul

Find activities that replenish your soul. Ironically for me, it’s going to Barry’s and SoulCycle. It could also include playing golf or something that takes your mind off the typical day-to-day activities.

Real + Positive Energy Only

There will be people who will ride with you for a season and others who are for the long haul. There will be people who inherently dislike you for reasons you can’t control. You do you, enjoy yourself, and surround yourself with people who display real and positive energy. Even if they’re here for a season or two, create some good memories, and move on. Things happen. You’ll meet crazies along the way. You can also reconnect with people from the far past.

Reinvent Yourself via Soul Searching

I’ve done many soul-searching to reinvent myself. I’m not perfect, but I’ll find ways to improve myself. It’s okay to give things a try and take breaks. I’ve streamed, vlog, and opened a sticker shop. Currently, I found myself enjoying workout classes (19-year-old me would never work out, and 21-year-old me thought $30 per month was too expensive), playing golf, and even going back to playing Fortnite.

Hustle, Rest, and Mental Health

Go ahead and chase that bag. Make that money, but not at the expense of your mental health. Set healthy boundaries on how you’ll acquire the means to fund the lifestyle you want. Remember to take rests in between so you don’t become burned out.