It’s my birthday! I have officially entered a new decade. Bring on the 20’s.
Let’s get this out of the way before I continue…yes I’m a junior in college and I’m just now turning 20. I started kindergarten early and have been younger than my friends my entire life. I like to tell people I’m younger because I skipped a grade. They don’t need to know that “grade” was a year of pre-school. Moving on…
19 was a pretty great year. For it being the awkward year between two milestone birthdays it was filled with many highs. Some months felt like they flew by (where’d you go, November and December?) others dragged on. To “celebrate” my birthday I wanted to share some of the sayings, pieces of advice and random lessons from my year.
In no particular order, 19 lessons I’ve learned in my 19th year
Marathons are NOT easy. I probably could have told you that last year, though. It was an incredible personal and athletic accomplishment but it was by no means a walk in the park.
A little KINDness goes a long way. Working for KIND has shown me the true power of a small act of kindness.
The beach can cure most problems. If not, a nap on the beach sure will.
Blogging is hard work, but so fulfilling. The connections I’ve made with people have exceeded all my expectations.
Friendship doesn’t mean you have to talk every day (or week). My best friends live far away so it’s nice knowing that we can go a long time without seeing each other and still be best friends.
College doesn’t have to be the “best four years of your life.” I mentioned this a few weeks ago but it’s something I finally learned this year. It would be kind of sad if these were the best four years…what does that mean for the rest of your life? I think every stage can be the best time of your life.
Work is rewarding. But it’s work. I have 3 jobs on campus and had a full-time summer internship. The money and experience have been great, but that does not mean it hasn’t been hard. I’ve learned to spend my money very wisely.
My running mojo will come and go…and that’s OK. I’ve learned that I can take a few weeks off and still be considered a runner. I had a few intentional and unintentional running breaks this year, and while I missed the endorphins, I found other things that make me happy.
My body is pretty smart…and I should listen to it more often.
I don’t have to be flexible to love yoga. Trust me, I lead the pack of tight hamstrings and hips.
Cooking a good meal is very satisfying, but it tastes better when it’s made by someone else my mom.
My dog is my favorite person in the world. Yes, person.
The little things add up to a wonderful, happy life. Like a note from a friend or a perfectly ripe avocado.
I’m in control of my future.
Everyone should watch the Ellen Show everyday. It’s good for the soul.
I don’t need to get a 4.0 to be happy or successful.
I don’t always have to know the answer. What do you want to do after college? Where do you want to live? What do you want for dinner? Sometimes “I don’t know” is the right answer.
Sometimes, sitting on the couch and doing nothing is the answer ^^
Family, friends and Friends are the best therapy.
Happy New Year! What were your top 3 moments from 2014?
Very wise my friend ;) You have such a great and bright head on your shoulders! The world better look out for this unstoppable kick-ass girl! Happy Birthday Emily! May you have an awesome wonderful 20th year full of running, yoga, spinning, blogging, laughing, relaxing, love, and (gluten-free) living! XOXO
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine recently posted…Apple Gingerbread Muffins
You are the sweetest! Thank you SO much xoxoxo
Happy birthday! I have a late birthday, so I was always the youngest too. I still sometimes have to explain to people how I can be working full-time and be so young. I love your point that you don’t have to flexible to do yoga. I’m usually the least flexible person in my class (sometimes by a lot) but I still enjoy it.
Rebecca @ MyEagerFeet recently posted…Run Less Run Faster: Weeks Eight & Nine
Thanks, Rebecca! Our friends will be jealous of us when they are all 50 and we’re still 49 :)
Happy birthday Emily! I have loved connecting with you ever since I started following your blog. You are such an inspiration and I look forward to following your 20th year! :)
Brie @ Lean, Clean, & Brie recently posted…ASICS GEL- Fit Sana Review
Thanks, Brie! I agree, I’m so glad I’ve “met” you this year. Happy New Year :)
You are so spot on with these. People kept telling me that college was the best four years of your life and I don’t think that is true. There are memories that will live with you forever, but it is what you make of it and there is so much more to look forward to beyond that!
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Hi Emily :) this post is so great. I can especially relate as my dog is my best friend too. I also think there is no better cure for anything then binge-watching Friends.
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Especially the Thanksgiving/holiday episodes! I just did that last week :)