45 at 45
I can’t believe I’ve been on this journey of life for 4 and half decades. Age 5 or 45, I’ve always been that introspective soul trying to find meaning.
What I know to be true at this juncture in life, is that although I’ve gained some insight throughout the years, the learning has only begun. I am confident that whatever I’m experiencing now is preparing me for what is still yet to come.
As I celebrate the big 45, almost half a century on this planet, I find nothing more cathartic than reflecting on what I’ve learned. And so here are my top 45 at 45:
- Reflecting is cathartic! Much growth comes from taking time to look back and simply realize.
- Living in gratitude keeps us humble. We all have more than we deserve.
- Saying thank you for the little things means more than the big ones.
- You don’t have to be the best. Just do your best and the rest will follow.
- Allow yourself to be weird and different. Fitting in is overrated.
- Avoid the path of least resistance, it typically doesn’t lead to greatness.
- Trust your instincts. We have them for a reason and they are always right.
- Take risks. Walk the road less traveled as often as possible.
- Run your own race. What others are doing simply doesn’t matter.
- Know who you are. This comes from consistent self reflection.
- Stay close to those who bring out the best in you.
- Steer clear of those who bring out that other side of you.
- Question your beliefs. It’s the only way for authentic conviction.
- Know your kids. Our time with them is short lived. Make it count.
- Honor your parents. They gave you life. They deserve respect.
- Have an open mind. It’s the only way we grow.
- Listen. There is always something to learn.
- Be wrong. It builds character.
- Appreciate your heritage. Honor your peeps.
- Have a voice. Stand up for what you believe.
- Don’t be afraid to disagree. But do it tactfully.
- Spend time in nature. It’s healing in every way.
- Stay teachable. No matter what we achieve, there is more to learn.
- Don’t jab. Refrain from making those mean, childish comments.
- Forgive. No one is perfect.
- Be playful. It’s good for the soul.
- Find time for you. Recharge in whatever way you need to on a daily basis.
- Tell people you love them. You may never get another chance.
- Work hard. It’s the cornerstone for success.
- Rest. It’s also the cornerstone for success.
- Exercise daily. Endorphins are magic.
- Stay away from black and white thinking. There is gray in everything.
- Avoid passive aggressive behavior at all cost. No one wins.
- Say what you mean and mean what you say. Be impeccable with words.
- Read. Literature holds the key to knowledge.
- Encourage others. We get what we give.
- Spend time with those less fortunate. And help where you can.
- Avoid excessiveness. Too much of anything is a problem.
- Celebrate others’ wins. And celebrate yours. Keep vicious competition away.
- Remember that you can start over at any time. Life, a day, a minute.
- Take nothing for granted. Everything we have can be lost in a second.
- Breathe. It is the solution for everything.
- Pray or meditate. Find ways to connect with the source outside of self.
- Love. Everything. Everyone.
- BE YOUR AUTHENTIC SELF.
I am a 45 year old, introverted, left handed, feisty, competitive, obsessive, strong willed, determined woman who has struggled with self esteem and control my whole life.
I have a past that still haunts me, I have a present situation that often scares me, I have a future that I know nothing of.
BUT….
I am extremely self aware and approach life with heart & soul.
I have two children that I love more than words can express. I have a husband who is my true partner in life and my very best friend. I have an incredible career where I’m surrounded by like minded, beautiful souls. I have friends who have stood by my side through every peak and valley. I have a family who would do anything for me. I have an understanding of God and the universe that may not be like anyone else’s understanding, but it is mine and it is real.
I know and respect who I am. Do I like every part? No! But do I think every part of who I am is necessary? Absolutely. Every dark side of Denise has light. Every battle scar produces new awareness. Every challenge creates growth.
And although turning 45 seems almost surreal, I realize that this journey is about so much more than myself. I am just scratching the surface of this quest for eternity that has only just begun.