Chapter 1: Turning 35

Today marks my 35th birthday, a moment that feels surreal. I vividly recall writing a similar reflection on my 25th birthday, just before my first book was released. Time has a peculiar way of slipping by, as Hemingway famously noted, "slowly, and then all at once." Now, as I step into the latter half of my thirties, I find myself contemplating the myriad lessons learned throughout this decade.

In the past ten years, I've authored over ten books, entered into marriage, welcomed two children into my life, purchased a home, acquired a farm, and even invested in a century-old building to establish a bookstore. I've traveled extensively, indulged in reading, and stumbled through numerous mistakes (as I detailed last year). I've encountered unprecedented challenges, including a global pandemic. Despite these experiences, I feel there is still so much more to learn.

As is my tradition, I share these lessons in this annual reflection (you can explore my insights from ages 26 through 33). Here are some of the rules, insights, and trivia I've gathered over the last year and throughout my life. You may resonate with some and find others perplexing or even incorrect—yet that’s the beauty of personal reflections.

> Key Takeaway: Don’t measure your worth against others. You never know the hidden struggles they might be facing.

The first video, "35 Lessons," encapsulates insights gained over the years and provides a thoughtful overview of the experiences that shape our perspectives.

Section 1.1: Valuable Life Lessons

• Avoid Comparisons: Remember, appearances can be deceiving. You never know who may be struggling with hidden challenges.
• Make a Positive Impact: A sign at my local running track urges, "Leave This Place Better Than You Found It." This principle applies to both minor and significant actions in life.
• Kindness Matters: Even well-known figures cherish a simple compliment about their work. If praise resonates at that level, imagine its impact on those around you—friends, family, and colleagues.
• You Own Your Choices: As Sandra Day O’Connor's clerk noted, she never felt the need to apologize for her decisions. Boundaries are essential, and you are entitled to simply say “no” without justification.

Subsection 1.1.1: The Importance of Perspective

Chapter 2: Insights for the Future

The second video, "Episode 250: 35 Lessons I've Learned By My 35th Birthday," delves into personal growth and the significance of self-discovery throughout life.

• Hydration and Movement: Drink more water and walk regularly; both have remarkable benefits for your well-being.
• Recognizing True Success: The real victory lies not just in personal achievements but in nurturing relationships and being an exemplary human being.
• Communication is Key: Great ideas can falter without effective communication. Conversely, poor ideas can thrive if presented well.
• Hope Over Despair: Cynicism only exacerbates challenges. Instead, nurturing hope and a sense of agency can inspire transformative change.

In conclusion, as I reflect on another year, I’m reminded of a poignant lesson from Seneca: each passing moment is as good as lost. The critical question remains: Did I truly live each moment while it was unfolding?