Time keeps rolling on. As of today I’ve hit the big “three-oh” and have officially eclipsed 30 years on this pale blue dot. It’s a day for celebration, reflection, and looking forward to what’s next. Something about turning over into a new “decade,” invites the feeling of a shift in vibes. I’m grateful as I look back on my 20s incredibly fondly, but more than anything, I’m excited for what’s to come.

It feels good to be content. I’m getting married this fall, I’ve got a new gig that I’m having fun with, and each day I’m finding new ways to challenge myself. And yet, and much as I try to suppress it, I can’t help but want more. It’s a tough thing to grapple with on a day-to-day basis, but I don’t think it’s inherently bad. After all, we’re all born, we all die, and in between, all we can do is try and kick maximum ass. Here’s to many more decades as fulfilling as the last. Now without further ado, here are the things that I've learned and leaned on.

Author’s note: I’ve added a ⭐️ next to the principles that are new this year. This helps me see how my mindset changes from one post to the next.
  1. Don’t treat mysteries as puzzles. Not everything can be answered.
  2. Most decisions should be made on 1-2 variables alone.
  3. Most arguments aren’t about ideas, they’re about ego. ⭐
  4. In all things, double down on what works.
  5. Control the things you can control.
  6. Taste matters. Details matter.
  7. The limit is usually just in your head. There’s more there. ⭐
  8. Great things come from showing up day after day.
  9. A little gratitude goes a long way.
  10. Nobody can teach us the things that matter in life.
  11. You can’t enjoy highs without experiencing lows. Life is a pendulum.
  12. Experience stretching steals wonder from life. Appreciate the simple.
  13. There is more wisdom in your body than in your deepest philosophy. ⭐
  14. Breakdowns can be essential to dislodge us from an undesirable state.
  15. Every action you take is a vote towards the person you want to become. ⭐
  16. The things that are worthwhile are never easy.
  17. Rituals create meaning in a world where meaning is hard to find.
  18. Happiness and focus can often be one in the same. ⭐
  19. Find little things to care about. Even if they are silly.
  20. Clear communication can help circumvent many types of problems.
  21. As much as it feels like the case, you never have to carry the weight alone. ⭐
  22. Move around a little bit every morning. You’ll feel better.
  23. There’s nothing more important than relationships with those you care about.
  24. Make time for reflection. It doesn’t happen naturally.
  25. Things aren’t nearly as black-and-white as you think they are.
  26. The worst case scenario isn’t as bad as you think it is.
  27. Both bad and good things happen in waves.
  28. Life doesn’t get easier. You’ll never “have it all figured out,” and that’s okay.
  29. It’s okay to want more, it’s better to do something about it. ⭐
  30. The sun will never shine quite like it does today. ⭐

If you're interested in more principles or how my perspective has shifted over time, you can find reflections from previous years below. I hope you found something meaningful here. See you next year.

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