22 for 22

22 Lessons Learned at Age 22 by Bobbi T.M.

1. Find your humanity:

It is important to remember that you are human, and you are always one choice away from living the same life as someone else. You are not above, nor below anyone. Enjoy the human experience; that is everyone’s commonality.

2. Face the trauma/ Recognize & label abuse:

Often times, we reduce our trauma and/ or abuse. We push it to the side, and count it as just a “bad” experience. That has to stop. Your trauma is not yours to keep as an identity.

3. Not everyone gets a chance to cry:

This is one of my mom’s favorite quotes. It takes one person to be the symbol of strength. Sometimes, you have to be the engine that keeps the train moving.

4. Grieve out loud:

Do not bottle your grief up, and let it spill over. Let yourself feel your emotions and work through those feelings; not against them.

5. Release imposter syndrome:

You deserve good things, and everything great. It is not a mistake when greatness arrives on your doorstep.

6. Give yourself grace:

Often times, we do ourselves a disservice when we allow others grace, and don’t extend it to ourselves. Give yourself love, patience, and all the comfort that you need.

7. Difference between isolation and solitude:

Isolation is not equal to solitude. Don’t isolate yourself from the world hoping that you get the joys of solitude. However, you have to learn how to be comfortable in your solitude.

8. You are far more brilliant than you think:

Your ideas are worthy. Your mind is worthy. You are worthy. Stop underestimating yourself.

9. Fortune favors the bold:

To get what you want and need, you have to advocate and speak up for yourself. Fortune comes from being bold, and going after exactly what you want.

10. There’s always more:

There’s more beyond what you know now. There’s always better.

11. Pretty is as pretty does:

An old country saying that stands the test of time. Beauty goes beyond the surface. You can only be as pretty as you act.

12. Brag on yourself:

Don’t ever play small. Celebrate yourself along every step of the way. Your existence, and thriving in it is your greatest accomplishment.

13. Quitting is, in fact, for winners:

It’s okay to walk away from things that are no longer conducive for all parties involved. Know when to hold, and know when to fold.

14.Take it for what it is, and not what you want it to be:

Don’t force change in something, or someone. Let it be what it’s going to be, and move on.

15. Pay for the convenience:

Other people are there to help. You cannot do everything, and it’s okay to pay someone to do things for you.

16. Sometimes, you have to get back to the basics:

Simplifying your routine, lifestyle, and all other beneficial facets of your life can help you tremendously.

17. You have to go through to get through:

You have to grow through what you’re going through. Why stop? You have to feel the journey, and all the other ugly parts to find the joy in making it through. Trouble don’t last always!

18. It doesn’t always come when you want it, but it shows up when you need it:

Patience is key in getting exactly what you prayed/ manifested/ asked for. Whatever you asked for is going to come in due time when it’ supposed to. Don’t worry!

19. Make sure to tell your own story:

My mother has always emphasized this sentiment. Don’t ever let anyone tell your story. You know your own story better than anyone else. You have to make sure to tell exactly the way you want, and how you want.

20. Less wows, more okays:

Stop being surprised by the daily habits of others. Behavior fluctuates, but make sure accept that character remains the same.

21. Don’t set yourself up to get your feelings hurt:

Another famous saying of my mother’s. Why keep putting yourself in situations where you can possibly get your feelings hurt time after time. Taking responsibility is the principle here.

22. Do not settle:

Your time, energy, love, and overall investment(s) into anything are non- negotiable when it comes to being toyed with. You deserve everything good, great, and wonderful. Those things exist for you. Do not take something, or someone just because it’s there. You are not bubbles – do not settle!

This is my 22 Lessons for Age 22.

Be well!