Reflections from my 20's

I turned 30 this past November and it got me thinking about a lot of things. Things I wished my 20 - something self realized, things I wished I would have done differently, and ways I will live differently this next decade. It's not about beating myself up for what once was, but about honest reflection, and being intentional in the way I live this time around.

If I could go back in time and have a conversation with my 20 something self here are a few things I would say. . .

You will never make everyone happy. So stop trying.

Your life worth is not determined by a number on the scale.

You will never find happiness by obtaining some thin ideal. Society will try to trick you into believing the exact opposite.

Surround yourself with people who build you up, not tear you down. You are in control of who you choose to spend time with, so choose wisely.

You don't have to beat yourself up over and over again when you stumble or make mistakes. Mistakes happen. Bad choices happen. The importance is recognizing these instances and doing something about it. Be honest, talk to God, and keep moving forward.

Perfectionism is overrated. Keep striving for perfection and you will continue feeling like a failure.

God gives us delicious food to be enjoyed. Enjoy some veggies as well as some desserts.

Life is short. Be intentional about how you spend your days.

Your self worth is not determined by how others perceive you or how they react to certain decisions you make. You are only responsible for you. You are not responsible for other peoples reactions.

You think you want absolute control over your life but you really don't. Absolute control is a big burden if you really think about it. God is willing to take this burden once and for all, so why not let Him?

Life is not about black and white. God gives us some grey areas so that we learn to trust Him more.

When you are so focused on yourself you miss out on many opportunities. Turn your eyes outward and you will be shocked at where God leads you and how He fills your day.

Be gentle with yourself.

More faith is not something that can be achieved by just "trying harder." Faith is built by spending time with God and talking to Him daily.

Therapy is good for the soul.

Ben & Jerry's Chocolate Therapy is the worlds best ice cream. Eat it.

There is no such thing as "good or bad" food so stop labeling it as such. All food is to be enjoyed in moderation.

Life is not about you. Get over yourself.

People in this life will let you down. When this happens, don't let it control your day. Remember. . . you are only responsible for you, not anyone else.

Guilt gets you absolutely nowhere.

Your body needs food to function. Thus, starving yourself will make it hard (really hard) when you are ready to have a baby.

Specific people are put in your path for a reason.

Size 00 jeans does not a happy heart make.

People are not perfect. You are not perfect. Stop striving to be perfect.

You have walked this road for a reason. Don't hesitate to share your story with others. Life is about leaning on one another and learning together.

What are some truths you have learned over the years?