26 Life Lessons Learned in 26 Years of Life

My name is Sydney Halajian, and I am 25 years old. Currently, I'm sitting at a small wooden table on one of three foldable chairs, on a balcony that's only halfway painted. Earlier today, I had the privilege of putting rocks and rubble into bags for 5 hours, with the love of my life, and 18 strangers. We all laughed, covered from head to toe in dust from the old resort we've been demolishing to turn into a new community center for the many kids in this Colombian town.

Tomorrow, I turn 26 years old. I know to many, this may seem like nothing, but for me, this is a big one. When I first realized that this day was actually approaching, my initial reaction was to feel sick - a sensation that often accompanied birthdays for me. Birthdays can be tricky for many people, for a multitude of reasons. For some, it's as simple as placing too many expectations for the special day - only to lead to disappointment during an otherwise pleasant evening. Other times, it's the realization that another year has passed in life, and yet, what has changed? Maybe it's that goal you've been putting off and said you would accomplish this year but never did.

Birthdays are a stark reminder that time is passing on a life that has an unknown expiration date.

One year ago today, I was a newly 25-year-old sitting in her bed in Austin, Texas. A bed that never really did feel like mine despite the almost 2 years I spent sleeping in it. I was stuck at home with a positive Covid test, acting disappointed, but in reality felt relieved for it gave me an excuse to stay home with my partner since I had no one else in town that I felt close enough to celebrate with. I called in that week to my new waitressing job I had just gotten after quitting my second one since moving to Austin. It was silly of me to think I would be accepted into the nonprofit world right away once moving to that city.

That day I felt that same "sick" feeling I mentioned earlier, and it wasn't just the Covid. I looked at my life and felt confused on how I got there. Growing up, I thought 25-year-olds were supposed to have life figured out (which I now understand is comedic at best), yet I sat there the most confused about life I had ever been. I remembered the dreams I had as a child, and how I was so sure they were going to come true. As soon as I was old enough to use a computer, I began researching places around the world, how to travel, the different ways of life, how to make an impact and help others live happier lives. Connection and this beautiful world were simply all I could think about.

As I sat there on my 25th Birthday, one year ago today, I had the harsh realization that I had nothing in my life that I truly valued anymore. I found myself with the smallest social life I had ever had, no hobbies because I was picking up too many waitressing shifts to pay for the absurd rent, and living in a city that I felt no connection to. I made a promise to myself that day that by the time I turned 26 years old - my life would be completely different. I made a bucket list of things I wanted to do and accomplish within this lifetime to remind myself who I am and where I'm going.

I'm happy to say on this day, one year later, I kept my promise. I've quit my job and started my own business that I'm passionate about - reminding others that life is meant to be lived happily. I packed up my belongings and put them in storage for I no longer have a home base - which sounds scary to some - but to me is the best thing my childhood self could have ever heard. I'm free, living from country to country with the person I love most in this world. Every day I get to experience something new with people from around the world. I get to see the most beautiful parts of nature and the human race.

Although my journey is not over, I can happily say, as I now look at my life around me, for the first time in such a long time - I don't get that "sick" feeling for this birthday. Tomorrow, I will happily have lived 26 years of life. I've done some crazy things during this lifetime - from leading a wild-land fire crew with absolutely no experience, to training volunteers on how to build homes, and now traveling full-time with my own business. It feels as though I've already lived 26 lifetimes, in the best way possible. People often tell me I sound wise for my age, like an old soul stuck in a young body - I believe this is solely because of the amount of extremely varied experiences I've put myself through - or as I like to call them, "character-building exercises".

So as tomorrow, March 7th, approaches, I'd like to share with you all 26 life lessons I've learned throughout these very crazy, 26 years of life.

26 Life Lesson's Learned During 26-Years of Life

1.This too shall pass. I've heard these words since I was a child, engraved on my mother's back as a timeless reminder. But it's only recently that their true meaning has sunk in. Reflecting on my journey, I realize I've conquered every challenge and hardship life has thrown my way. Whatever I'm facing now, I'll overcome it just as I have before. In the midst of struggles, it's natural to feel like the world is collapsing around us. Yet, as I've grown, I've learned to draw strength from past trials. I've faced moments where despair felt overwhelming, but looking back, I see how each trial eventually faded into memory. It's a comforting realization that no matter how daunting the present may seem, it too will pass.

2. It's okay to feel sad sometimes... and angry... and literally any other feeling you can think of. Give yourself grace. I've come to understand the importance of embracing every emotion, even the ones we often label as negative. In the past, I found myself trying to evade feelings like sadness, grief, and anger. To be entirely truthful, this remains a journey I'm navigating. Yet, I've realized that denying these emotions only leads to inner barriers that hinder growth in all aspects of life, from relationships to personal development. Acknowledging the full spectrum of human emotions is not a sign of weakness; it's a testament to our humanity. Each feeling serves a purpose, guiding us through life's twists and turns. By allowing ourselves to experience them fully, we open doors to profound healing and understanding.

3. There's a reason it didn't work out. I firmly believe that the universe has a grand design for each of us. This belief has been solidified as I reflect on past disappointments that eventually led to unexpected blessings. It's remarkable how seemingly unrelated events weave together to form the intricate web of our lives. I've experienced moments of frustration and heartache when things didn't go according to plan. Yet, looking back, I see how each disappointment was a redirection towards something greater. Consider the corporate job I once strived for but got denied from. At the time, it felt like a missed opportunity, yet it paved the way for an encounter that would change my life forever: meeting my partner. In hindsight, it's clear that if I had pursued that job, our paths would have never crossed, and I would have missed out on one of life's greatest treasures. It's as though every twist and turn was orchestrated to lead me precisely where I needed to be.

4. JUST START. No experience necessary Last year taught me my greatest lesson: the power of starting despite doubts and perceived limitations. For too long, I held back on pursuing my entrepreneurial dreams, convinced I lacked the requisite experience or education. Yet, reflecting on my journey, I realized that life had already equipped me with invaluable skills. From leading forest firefighting crews without prior chainsaw experience to teaching volunteers construction skills without ever handling a drill, and even creating websites for businesses without formal education, I discovered that we're capable of learning and growing whenever we need to. The key is to follow our passions, explore ideas that ignite our souls, and simply start—taking one step at a time. It's not about having all the answers upfront; it's about embracing the journey of discovery, trusting in our ability to learn along the way, and allowing curiosity to guide us toward our dreams.

5. Give other's grace - it's everyones first time living. The moment I grasped the humanity of my parents and family, it was as if the foundations of my world shifted. Realizing that everyone, regardless of their stature or role, is simply figuring things out as they go, was both enlightening and humbling. No one holds all the answers, and even those we admire inevitably stumble and err, just like we do. Age and accomplishments don't exempt anyone from the inherent complexity of life. While I'm a firm advocate for boundaries, I'm equally passionate about forgiveness, extending it not only to others but also to oneself. We're all imperfect beings navigating the intricate web of existence, and in acknowledging our shared humanity, we find the compassion and grace to forgive, learn, and grow.

6. Do not take anything in this life personal - it's not about you. This eye-opening wisdom from "The Four Agreements" has been a game-changer for me, especially in dealing with overthinking and social anxiety. Growing up, bullying left me feeling insecure, but realizing that people's behavior reflects their own struggles, not my worth, has been a game-changer. It's a reminder that the world doesn't revolve around us. This realization empowers us to navigate life's ups and downs with more ease, letting go of the need for external validation.

7. The lows of life are inevitable - from heartbreak to grief and loss, they're all part of the human experience, and perhaps our greatest teachers. While traversing these challenging phases can feel like navigating through a storm, I've come to realize that they hold immense value in shaping who we are. Embracing this truth has transformed my perspective. Rather than resisting the ebb and flow of life, I've learned to see it as a grand rollercoaster ride. Just as the peaks offer exhilaration, the valleys provide moments for reflection, growth, and renewal. By acknowledging that these "lows" are an integral part of our journey, we can approach them with a sense of grace and acceptance. They become opportunities to slow down, to feel deeply, and to emerge stronger and more resilient for the journey ahead. With this mindset shift, navigating life's ups and downs becomes a more profound and enriching part of the human experience no one is exempt form.

8. Not all men are evil This revelation, while obvious to some, took me years to grasp. Throughout much of my early 20s, I held onto the belief that all men inherently had bad intentions, influenced by a handful of extreme examples. It wasn't until I joined AmeriCorps, living and working closely with a diverse group, that my perspective began to shift. Surrounded by kind and respectful men, I started to question my previous assumptions. Their positive energy sparked a transformation within me. Now, reflecting on my journey, I realize that openness to goodness has led me to encounter more positive masculine energy than negative. Perhaps it's simply because I chose to believe in it once again.

9. Love is real - in its purest, kindest, and gentlest form. No one needs to settle. Since finding my partner, my perception of love has undergone a profound transformation. Looking back, I can't fathom how I once accepted anything other than this tranquil reality. I've come to understand that love can always be gentle, kind, and patient. Does this mean there won't be challenges along the way? Of course not. Bumps in the road are inevitable in any type relationship. However, it's how you and your partner navigate these challenges that truly matters. I firmly believe that everyone deserves a love as tender and compassionate as this, and I hope to help others realize they need not settle for anything less.

10. Many spend most of their live's in autopilot - missing the present moment.  I attribute this phenomenon largely to the economic system we've constructed in the United States and the structure of most jobs. It often feels like individuals, including myself for many years, are merely going through the motions, moving from one task to the next, eagerly anticipating the end of the day just to repeat the cycle the next morning. In this monotonous routine, we miss out on so much of life's richness - from the awe-inspiring beauty of the natural world to countless opportunities passing us by unnoticed. My most valuable advice for breaking free from this mindset is to start practicing meditation. Through meditation, we slowly train our minds to be present in the moment, rather than being trapped in a cycle of worry about the future. By cultivating mindfulness, we can learn to appreciate the beauty and abundance that surrounds us each day, leading to a more fulfilling and enriched life.

11. Nature possesses an incredible ability to heal, especially when it comes to mental health. Throughout my career, particularly during my time with the Forest Service, I've had the privilege of being immersed in the great outdoors consistently. During these moments, I've noticed a remarkable shift in my well-being - a consistent sense of happiness and vitality that I struggle to find elsewhere. Nature has a way of teaching us to slow down, to become attuned to our surroundings, and to appreciate the beauty of the world around us. Whether it's observing the intricate ecosystems within a small puddle or witnessing the breathtaking spectacle of a sunset over vast oceans, nature reminds us of the simple yet profound beauty that surrounds us. In its presence, we are reminded that everything, including ourselves, simply exists, and therein lies a profound sense of contentment.

12. It truly does not matter what anyone thinks about your life - it often won't make sense to others at first.  Let me preface this by saying, people don't dwell on you nearly as much as you imagine they do. Everyone is wrapped up in their own world - that embarrassing moment you can't shake? Chances are, it hasn't crossed anyone else's mind since it happened. It's okay to laugh it off and move forward. The same goes for your life choices - not everyone will understand them right away. But remember, they'll offer quick feedback and then move on, because they simply don't care about your life as much as you do. Trust your own instincts above all else, because no one is affected by your decisions more than you are. If you do something a bit out of the ordinary, it might make others uncomfortable initially, and that's alright. Through my experiences, I've learned that those who truly love and matter to you will eventually come around. It's ironic, really, because those choices that made others uneasy at first often become what they're most proud of you for later on. So take that leap - trust yourself, and let the rest fall into place.

13. Money will come back - opportunities do not. Money, ah, the ever-elusive currency of life. It flows in and out just like everything else. There was a time when I lost sleep over finances, never quite having a healthy relationship with money. Though I'm far from being a financial expert, one thing I've learned is that money has a funny way of finding its way back. I've witnessed people forego incredible life experiences simply because they were too uneasy about spending. I've also heard elders express their regrets about working too hard and missing out on life's joys. If you can, I always advise taking the leap and trusting yourself to replenish the funds. After all, experiences are priceless, and money, in one form or another, tends to replenish itself.

14. Boundaries are not just important; they're essential for maintaining a healthy life.  For the longest time, saying "no" felt like an impossible feat for me. Whether it was for friends, work, or family, I believed that being "selfless" and "helpful" meant always being available to others. But I couldn't have been more wrong. I soon realized that constantly stretching myself thin left me exhausted and neglected. I failed to recognize that prioritizing time for myself was crucial. After all, if you can't show up for yourself, you'll never fully show up for others. Embracing the power of saying "no" when necessary, or even just when I want to, has allowed me to become the best version of myself - not only for me but for everyone I love. Now, that's what I call helpful.

15. Being open and saying "yes" to opportunities will change your life in the most dramatic way. From seizing challenging roles with no prior experience to making spontaneous life relocations, I've learned to embrace every opportunity that comes my way, regardless of how daunting it may appear at first glance. When faced with a new opportunity, I focus on the potential it holds, often exploring possibilities beyond the obvious. For instance, when offered a team leader position on the opposite side of the country, I initially thought about the exciting prospect of meeting new people. Little did I know, this decision would lead me to meet my life partner and forge lifelong friendships. It's not just about big decisions; everyday choices matter too. If someone invites you to get coffee, say yes! You've never tried pottery but found a group open to new members? Go! One interaction has the power to shift every aspect of your life - you'll quickly find that this is the quickest way to completely transform your situation.

16. Follow your intuition - it's often right, unlike overthinking fueled by anxiety. Many of us have lost touch with our inner guidance, but I firmly believe we possess this innate power for a reason. Your mind and body inherently understand what your soul desires - even if it's not always easily expressible in words. That gut feeling you experience? Trust it. If you're feeling disconnected or uncertain, try recording yourself discussing a topic. Compare your facial expressions and tone when discussing different options. Notice which choice makes your eyes widen or your voice rise with excitement. Even when your mind is clouded with racing thoughts, your instincts will often guide you to the right decision. Trust in yourself and the wisdom of your intuition.

17. New experiences have the ability to slow life down. You may have heard me emphasize this in the closing of my podcast episodes, but I'll continue to shout this from the rooftops until I'm heard in every corner of this world. If you ever feel like life is speeding by, with days blending into weeks, morphing into month, and all of the sudden 3 years have passed and you can't think of many memories that defined them - following this rule will change everything. . Introducing new experiences into your life - whether it's trying a new hobby, sampling a new cuisine, or exploring unfamiliar music - will revolutionize your perception of time. The enemy of time is repetition, and unfortunately we've created a society that values this to the highest degree - for repetition equals faster production. Sure, this is great in terms of corporate goals -  but what about the quality of our lives? Embrace the opportunity to step outside your comfort zone and embrace novelty. It's through new experiences that we truly savor the richness of life and make lasting memories.

18. Being your true inner-self will naturally attract the right circle, but it can be lonely at first. As you align more closely with your authentic self, your energy will naturally attract the right people into your life, while those who don't resonate with your being will gradually fade away. It's important to recognize that it's okay to let go of relationships of all kinds; it doesn't imply superiority of one person over another, but simply acknowledges that your paths are diverging. Even as you part ways with someone, you can still hold respect for them and cherish the love that once existed between you. It's perfectly acceptable to wish both yourself and the other person the best in life, even if your paths are now separate. Embracing this understanding allows you to move forward authentically, surrounded by those who truly align with your journey.

19. If you feel disconnected with yourself - think back to your childhood and what you loved most. Re-implement that thing. We are our most authentic selfs during early childhood. We have not yet been exposed to all of the expectations and pressures from society and what is deemed as "successful". We simply exist - loving what we love, and avoiding what we hate. If you feel like you're not feeling connected with yourself, or simply lacking joy in your everyday life, make a list of the things you loved as child. Now try to reimplement those things into your everyday life - you'll be surprised to hear your childhood laugh again.

20. Its okay that your loved ones have different opinions than you. In the tumultuous year of 2020, amidst the challenges of Covid-19 and extreme political divisions, this fundamental idea became lost and forgotten. It was a lesson I had to rediscover, but one I'm grateful for, as it released me from the burden of isolation. Each person's journey is unique, shaping their perspectives and beliefs. While it's important to engage in open conversation and share your thoughts, it's not your responsibility to impose your views on others. Embracing the diversity of human nature is what makes our interactions rich and meaningful

21. True love does not try to change someone - but accepts them for who they are. Reflecting on this, it's evident that love should not seek to mold others into mirror images of ourselves. In the past, I've caught myself trying to 'fix' those I cared about, but I've come to understand that this isn't love. If you find yourself unable to accept someone for who they truly are, perhaps it's a sign to let them go.

22. It's perfectly acceptable to change your mind; in fact, it's a sign of personal growth. I've held some very strong opinions in the past, but as I've experienced unique situations, met diverse individuals, and traveled to new places, my perspectives have evolved. It's crucial to foster an environment where others feel empowered to openly reassess their viewpoints – after all, we're constantly growing and learning. It takes strength and character to admit when we've learned something new and acknowledge our past misconceptions. We often become fixated on being right, but it's not our true selves who care – it's our ego. Our inner self is impartial; it's our ego that attaches itself to ideas and material possessions.

23. Maybe life has no purpose at all except to be happy?  Initially, I launched my podcast with the hope of uncovering my personal purpose in life. However, I'm beginning to question if the essence of life lies in the pursuit of happiness itself. Are the pressures to achieve specific financial goals or gain recognition from others truly what define our existence? Perhaps true fulfillment lies in finding contentment and joy in the simple moments – like savoring a warm cup of coffee on a rainy day or admiring the resilience of an ant carrying double its weight. It's about slowing down, noticing the beauty in the mundane, and appreciating life's smallest pleasures.

24. Manifestation works - the universe is listening.  I felt compelled to share this insight because without the power of manifestation, I wouldn't be in the incredible place I am today, pursuing my passions alongside the person I deeply love. Since childhood, I've envisioned every facet of my ideal life. While I can't precisely explain the magic behind its realization, I can wholeheartedly affirm its existence. It's as if the more I trust in the universe and radiate positive energy, the more effortlessly my dreams materialize each day.

25. We are all one - we are all connected.  One of the most profound spiritual lessons I've encountered is the realization of our collective unity. While I could attempt to explain this concept in depth, I believe it's a lesson that unfolds in its own time for each individual. Understand that at our core, we are all one energy, reflecting back upon one another.

26. The more you know - the more you realize you know nothing at all. This final lesson, though seemingly simple, has been a recurring theme in my journey through life. Each experience serves as a humbling reminder that my understanding is merely a drop in the vast ocean of knowledge. I've found myself learning the same lessons repeatedly, and often, what I once believed to be true is revealed to be the opposite. And that's perfectly okay. In one year, when I approach my 27th birthday, I embrace the notion that I may disagree with some of these lessons by then - for it only means growth and redirection has occurred, as does with all things on this Earth.

Looking forward to the year ahead,

Sydney