Hey , it’s my Birthday this month! I’m forty-one years young! Getting older has never really had much effect on me. But lately I’ve been reflecting on what I’ve learned and how I’ve grown during my 41 years on this earth. Here, in no particular order, are 41 life lessons learned in 41 years.

7. You are not a door mat! Stand up, woman!

2. Life is too short to waste time resenting (or, to be blunt, hating) anyone else.

3. You don’t have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

4. Never compare yourself to others. One can never know what goes on behind someone else’s closed door.

5. You’re never too young to learn something new.

6. Remember the golden rule – do unto others as you would want done to you.

7. Not everyone you meet is going to like you – and that’s OK.

8. Grown up friendships will be the most meaningful and sincere relationships of your life. Totally worth the wait. (see The Importance of Mom Friends post)

9. Stop being so concerned on your bank balance. Splurge! Spend! Enjoy life!

10. You’re not going to remain slim your whole life. So take care of yourself and learn to exercise because your ass will get large.

“The older you get, the better you get. Unless you are a cookie.”

– Cookie Monster

11. Let your true colours show. Be you – the real you.

12. Take time for yourself. You can’t take care of others if you’re not taking care of yourself.

13. Say no from time to time. People pleaser is one of your qualities (and downfalls), but you don’t need to say yes to everything that’s asked of you.

14. Having money may make life a bit easier, but money doesn’t buy happiness.

15. If you’re passionate about something (like starting a blog) then just go for it. Don’t be afraid of stepping out of your comfort zone.

16. Treat every day as if it’s your last. Light the candle, open the bottle of champagne, use the fancy dishes.

17. Stop making excuses. Get off your ass already!

18. Nobody is going to give you everything you want on a silver platter. You actually have to work for what you want.

19. Motherhood will be hard and may not come naturally. Motherhood will take work – each and every day.

20. Don’t let loved ones pressure you or force you to into a relationship that you don’t want. Surround yourself will those who love who and only want the best for you.

21. Though shall not covet what others have. Whether it be their home, figure, or lifestyle – do you.

22. Enough with the over-sharing. Folks don’t want (or need) to know every minute detail of your life.

23. Never be afraid to ask for help. There is no shame in admitting you can’t do it all or need a hand in life.

24. Let it out. Don’t keep your emotions bottled up. Write that shit down (hello, blog) and shout from the rooftops.

25. Have a coffee. Or two. Every day.

26. Travel a bit. I regret not seeing and doing more. See the world.

27. Abs are made in the kitchen. Not that I’ll ever have abs. But take nutrition and eating healthy a bit more seriously. The 80/20 rule is a smart choice.

28. If you love it, feel free to watch the same movie for the 25th time.

29. Forge your own path. You don’t need to take the advise of family or friends. Trust you own skills and instincts.

30. The secret to success is actually showing up. Not only for others, but especially for yourself.

“The biggest lesson I learned this year is to not force anything: conversations, relationships, friendships, attention, love. Anything forced is just not worth fighting for, whatever flows flows, whatever crashes crashes. It is what it is.

– Unknown

31. Practice more patience. It’s in short supply sometimes, but give it a try more often.

32. You’re only as happy as you decide to be. Choose joy.

33. Keep your head up. Confidence is the sexiest thing you can wear.

34. Never be forced into having children. Parenthood is hard.

35. Read more often. Reading is an escape and an adventure.

36. Enjoy the great outdoors. Even if it’s just a walk around town – get outside often.

37. Never take your health for granted. Get regular check-ups and add some physical activity into your routine.

38. Have more sex! You sex drive will taper off a bit, but don’t let the sex go from your marriage.

39. Eat the cake! Or cookies or whatever sweet treat you are craving. Everything in moderation and a healthy balance is key. Otherwise you’ll binge on the crap food.

40. Paint your nails! Nail polish always fits and can instantly lift your mood and look.

41. Love lots! Love your spouse, children, and those friends and family that matter most. Lots and lots of love!

There you have it! 41 life lessons in 41 years!

Happy Birthday to me and cheers to 41 more years of awesomeness!