I recently celebrated my 34th birthday and I have to say, I love being in my thirties.  As I’ve gotten older, I’ve begun to realize how awesome and exciting life is!

Aging is something you can neither control nor stop; but you can be prepared with some important life lessons.  I’m looking forward to the next 34 plus years to come!

In honor of my 34th birthday, here are 34 things I’ve learned in my 34 years:

1. Dreams can come true.
2. Failures are not mistakes, only the lessons that give you great stories.
3. “Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about.”- So be kind, smile, and spread love.
4. “The only thing to fear is fear itself.”
5. Tomorrow isn’t guaranteed so enjoy today.
6. Knowledge is power and opportunity is everything. So when you have it, take it and run.
7. You may end up loving the things you once hated.
8. Do what you love for a living so you can love what you do. You’ve got one life, live it up!
9. Money does not define happiness.
10. Rules are only guidelines.
11. Getting up early to exercise won’t kill you. It’s a great way to start the day.
12. Never be afraid to try something new.
13. Talk about what you love and share it with the world.
14. Giving is better than receiving.
15. Best friends are the keepers of your life’s memories, cherish them!
16. You’re just like your parents.
17.  Animals have rights too, be kind to all beings.
18. Share a smile or a kind gesture with a stranger.
19. Life is too short for bad: beer, wine, coffee, food, people.
20. You never stop learning and growing.
21. Set new goals all the time and keep working until you achieve them.
22. Take a yoga class or go for a run.
23. The world is not as bad a place as the news can lead you to believe.
24. Life may knock you down, but get back up and try again.
25. Don’t be in a hurry… enjoy your life, explore yourself and the world around you.
26. Take risks.
27. Strive for progress not perfection.
28. Like attracts like. Surround yourself with people you believe in.
29. Make time for family and friends.
30. It’s ok to be a little selfish and do something for yourself every day.
31. Read for pleasure.
32. Traveling is great. But there’s nothing like your own bed.
33. It’s worth it to work out, but do it for your spiritual, emotional, and physical health;  not just to lose weight.
34. Getting older is something to celebrate. Life’s a gift, embrace your age.