Thirty Plus One

Today was my last day as a 30 year old. I am now officially in my 30’s (cue scary music). I do admit that turning 30 was much more exciting and produced less anxiety than turning 31. Not that I’m freaking out over it. Turning 30 felt like a new beginning, real adult hood. Now here I am a year later turning 31 and feeling like now what???

I am not one of those people who fears getting older. I don’t look 30 most of the time so I doubt I’ll wake up tomorrow looking old and decrepit. I think for me the anxiety comes from feeling like I am getting older and not accomplishing anything. Feeling like here I am a year later and nothing is really different. Same job, same house, and same relationship status.

But then I remember a feeling is just that a feeling and not necessarily a true representation of reality. So let’s take a moment to see all that is different since I turned 30:

At least 3 new friends
New hair color
New furniture
Weight loss
New (increasing) responsibilities at work

In addition to giving you a reason to party, have people do what you want, and be self indulgent Birthdays give you a reason to be reflective. When I reflect on these last 30 years I see that I have accomplished a lot. Here are some of my most proud of accomplishments:

I am a home owner
I own my own car that I paid of a year early
I have lost 19lbs
I have a stable job
I am financially independent and capable of providing for myself
I have several friendships that have lasted over a decade (some 2
decades)
I have maintained my faith and spirituality although I have a hard
time with church
I have found a healthy outlet for my anxiety, anger, and fears
I am honest
I am pushing myself to try new things and gain new experiences
I am a woman of my word
I am a college graduate
I have made some new friends
I have advanced in my career
I am a great Pet Parent
I have gone on several vacations
And of course I am Chasing Joy

So what will 31 have in store for me? What will be new this time next year? What accomplishments will I add to the list next year? Suddenly 31 is looking very exciting.

How has your life changed in the last year? What have you accomplished that you are most proud of?