Shocking Realizations I've Discovered About Myself in My 30s

As I approach my 35th birthday in just two weeks, I find myself reflecting on the journey so far and the surprising truths I’ve uncovered about myself during my 30s. Here are the top 5 that I notice every day:

1. 35 is So Young

When I was a kid, I thought my mom was ancient even though she had me at 21 years old. And even up to a few years ago, I thought 35 was basically 100. But truth is, now that I am on the brink of 35, I realize it is still such a young age with so much to look forward to. I do not feel a day older than 25 and I am probably in better physical shape now than I was back then when I did not work out, partied a lot, and did not prioritize self care. I have a newfound awareness that the years fly by, money comes and goes, worrying about things that haven't happened is dumb, and happiness is all that matters. I will certainly use that to my advantage to plan unforgettable memories for the next years to come.

2. I Don’t Enjoy Drinking

Telling my 20-something self that I'd eventually go months without a single drink and not miss it would have been laughable! Drinking was once a major part of my social life, from sipping wine with friends to enjoying cocktails at parties. Now, I've realized I genuinely don’t care for it. Hangovers? No thanks! Disturbed sleep and feeling sluggish the next day? Definitely not worth it. I used to love the idea of unwinding with a drink, but now I truly appreciate how incredible I feel without it. The only time I enjoy having a drink these days is when I’m out dancing!

3. I’m a Homebody (What?!)

This one really shocks me because I LOVE to travel and have never ever been homesick no matter how long I am gone. While that is still very true and I actually dream of spending months abroad with Sydney when she is bigger, I literally love being home in silence without TV or music, just thinking of my next travel plans or laying down and doing nothing. It’s not that I don’t enjoy going out—I do and my social calender is usually full but it is so nice when I have a day to do nothing! I’ve discovered that nothing beats the comfort of being at home, in my own space, doing nothing. Thinking, reflecting, sleeping—it’s the ultimate luxury. Never in a million years did I think I’d become someone who craves solitude and silence, but here we are.

4. Sleep is My Best Friend

I’ve always been a fan of sleep, but in my 30s, it’s become my non-negotiable priority. Back in the day, I would stay up late to finish work, hang out with friends, or watch another episode of whatever show I was obsessed with. Now, if I don’t get at least 8 hours of sleep, I feel like a different person—irritable, tired, and unproductive. There’s nothing more satisfying than knowing you’re about to get a full night’s rest.

5. I Enjoy Working Out

My trainer might disagree because I complain a lot during my workout, but working out has actually become a part of my routine that I really enjoy! It gives me energy, helps me stay in shape, and helps me feel like myself despite the many roles I play daily. Working out has become a necessary ritual that was not a consistent part of my life in my 20s, and I can’t imagine going without it.