Everything I have learned in 30 years
A nearly comprehensive list after three decades of trial and (mostly) error
I turn 30 this weekend. Here’s what I’ve learned so far:
Practicing apologizing feels great. I understand being genuinely contrite has been unfashionable of late, but goddamn the more we all do it, the better off we’ll all be.
Dryer sheets are a scam, be wary of them and their proselytizers.
You never feel better after scrolling through social media than you do before it. Pay attention to what you pay attention to.
Keep a list of gift ideas for people and add to it throughout the year. You’ll thank yourself on holidays/birthdays.
Jaded cynicism is in no way more virtuous than enthusiastic optimism.
All I’m saying is I never felt worse after stretching out in the morning. Flexibility is freedom.
When friends ask for help moving, do it. No one should have to do that alone.
A “just say yes” mindset will sometimes get you into situations where you’ve got way too much dip on your chip. In the end, though, it’s so much better than shying away. Make memories while you can.
People who claim that college is “the best four years of your life” probably immediately hopped onto the conveyor belt of life after it and didn’t think twice. Don’t listen to them.
Being vulnerable is hard work, and work that takes a thousand different forms practiced daily. It is worth it.
Pasta water is the closest thing to a magic elixir I’ve encountered in real life, and learning to use it is a blessing.
Therapy ain’t cheap, but keeping a journal is. I’ve found putting thoughts onto paper is a super effective way to clear the cache of my brain. Plus, old journals will serve as a permanent reminder that the bulk of what we worry about is deeply trivial.
Life is entirely too short to get caught up doubting yourself.
If you shave your face, legs, or anything else, get a double-edged safety razor. There is no comparison.
Chase the things that make you feel small in the best way possible. For me, that’s seeing new places from the seat of a bicycle.
When making scrambled eggs, whisk a tablespoon of water and teaspoon of cornstarch in with the eggs. Trust me.
An easy shortcut to being a more decent, empathetic person? Before being snarky or passing judgement, try to see others as they see themselves.
Kurt Vonnegut said it best: “We are here on Earth to fart around. Don't let anybody tell you any different.”