57 Lessons From A 57-Year-Old

For as long as I can remember, I’ve always loved my birthday. I’m not sure if it has to do with being a December baby, but I’ve always made my birthday a whole month event. For me, it’s a fantastic opportunity to reflect, look ahead, and, of course, celebrate with the people I love. 

Allow me to share with you 57 key lessons I’ve learned in my 57 years of life.

1. Get outside as often as possible

2. Prioritize sleep

3. Advocate for vulnerable populations

4. Share with others

5. Be kind to those living on the streets. Give change, buy a sandwich, chat with them.

6. Manners are always in style

7. Give a compliment

8. Turn setbacks into opportunities for growth

9. It’s OK to change directions in your life at any time

10. Help others 

11. Check-in with those you haven’t heard from in a while

12. Epsom salt baths rock

13. Organize your living space

14. Eat your greens

15. Exercise several times a week

16. Pyjama days are important

17. Step out of your comfort zone

18. Show the bullies 'who’s boss'

19. Light candles

20. Go for a back-road drive 

21. Learn people's names

22. Be resourceful

23. Belly laughs are imperative

24. Experience is scholarly too 

25. Go barefoot as often as possible

26. Keep a journal of thoughts

27. Help your neighbours

28. Be teachable

29. Yoga is good for the soul

30. But so is eating cake 

31. Look for opportunities to learn both formally and informally

32. Take a break from your phone and reduce your screen time

33. Walk in the forest

34. Get up half an hour earlier than needed to have some me-time

35. Stand up for injustice

36. Wash your hands… wash your hands... wash your hands

37. Mentor others

38. Find a mentor for yourself

39. To-do lists can keep us organized

40. Build mindfulness into your day

41. Take naps when you can

42. Blast music and dance

43. Look in the mirror and remind yourself of your awesomeness

44. Treat yourself

45. Remember that the little things can make big impacts

46. Write a card to a friend

47. Stay humble

48. Give up your chair for some who needs it more

49. Pay for the person behind you in the drive-through on occasion

50. Watch sunrises and sunsets

51. Donate clothes you never wear

52. Ask for support to a charity instead of birthday gifts

53. No job is below you

54. Show up for work early

55. Express gratitude whenever possible

56. Change things about your life you don’t like

57. Remember your roots