10 Things I wish I knew before 30

Strongly on my way to 40's I am proud of who I've become and where I am in life, but I still sometimes feel like I could have done a few things better in my 20's to make life easier.

Young at heart

Pic credit: Sebastian Voortman

When we're in our 20's we are so concerned about enjoying life and everything it has to offer that we don't realize the important things that might catch up on us at a later stage.

We are focused on establishing a career, becoming independent and on our love life, but hardly take note of our health, because at this point there is not much reason for health concerns.

If you are in your 20's and would like to gain some wisdom while it matters, or if you are past 30 and wonder what you've missed, keep reading.

Here's my list of things I wish I knew before I turned 30

Look after your body

Our injuries can come back to bite us from behind when we are older. Focus on health and wellness and look after your body, by doing regular and relevant exercises to strengthen your muscles and protect your joints. No need for strenuous exercise- keep it moderate and consistent. Before you start off, find out what will work best for your body and what suits your lifestyle.

Remember to include strength training to strengthen your bones; doing this after 30 is so much harder.

Stay organized

Honestly, I knew this at a very young age, but just never realized how important it is. I only started applying it in my 30's and it made a massive difference in my daily routine and stress levels. Staying organized can even help you be more productive, so start organizing.

Take charge of your life

Let me start off by quoting this:

" Proverbs 16:9 NKJV. A man's heart plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps"

Always keep this in mind, and that said also remember that after the Lord, no one else is in charge of your life more than you are. Take action if you want to achieve something in life. Don't wait on someone else to make things happen for you. People will care for you and help you, but it is important to take care of yourself and not depend only on others.

Be real

Peer pressure and other people's opinions, along with the desire to fit in, can put a lot of pressure on us at any age. Don't let anyone determine your behavior or pressure you into doing something that you are not comfortable with. Remember that you are enough and there is no need for you to lie about who you are. Just be your best self and be the best version of yourself while you're at it.

Some people become wiser as they age and realize around their mid 30's that the effort required to please others and the pressure of trying to keep everyone happy is just not worth it. Be you and do what you feel is right without apologizing for it.

Get to know yourself and know what you want in life. It's good to be open to advice, because this is how you can learn, but knowing the difference is very important.

Don't waste time

Honestly, time waits for no-one, and time wasted does not return.

Avoid putting off things for too long and don't leave things overnight if it can be done today. You might end up not doing it at all and will live with regrets. Some things are a great benefit if you do it early, such as saving/investing, driver's license, that course you've been meaning to do, deciding what you want in life- you can't get what you want if you don't even know what you want.

Procrastination is the thief of time. Edward Young

Manage finances well

Many people find themselves in bad financial positions even in their old age and it has a negative effect on so many aspects of life. In fact, it completely reduces our quality of life, to the extent where we focus so much on making a living that we don't get to live.

I personally think it is important to introduce our children to saving and good financial habits at an early age and teach them the importance of not allowing money to control our lives.

Watch what you consume

I am not only referring to what you eat, but also to what you watch, listen to, read and the company you keep. Be mindful of what you consume, spiritually, emotionally and physically. You become what you consume.

Laugh

Laugh

Laughter has an endless list of mental, physical, and social benefits. Why would you not take advantage of it. Use every opportunity you can to laugh; in fact, laugh at yourself too. It boosts immunity, reduces pain and the risk of heart disease, eases anxiety and tension, strengthens relationships etc.

Drink enough water

Need I say more? Trust me, this is important.

Speak your mind

Practice giving your honest opinion and speaking out of love, not fear or anger. You never know when your hurtful truth can encourage someone to change their ways for the better. To gain more courage in this, start by expressing yourself to...yourself.

You can do this by keeping a diary, scrap book, Novel, sketchbook, however you choose to express yourself. A picture is worth a thousand words, and the same goes for a drawing so don't be fussy about how you do it.

What do you wish you knew before 30? Feel free to tell us in the chat or comments section and share important knowledge with the younger generation.