I always think it’s a good idea to reflect on the past life and money lessons you’ve learned. While it helps me see what mistakes I have made, it also reminds me of the good decisions I’ve made. I’ve learned a lot of valuable life lessons from both the good and the bad.
I usually just let my birthday fly by, but I realized that my birthday would be a good time to think about the lessons I’ve learned and share them with you.
Last year, I published the first of these posts, 27 Money And Life Lessons I’ve Learned. That’s one lesson for every year, and now I can add one more lesson, which I plan on doing for each new year ahead of me.
I really think self-reflection is a good idea, because we can learn so much from the past, both the good choices and the mistakes we’ve made.
And, I’ve made mistakes, but I’ve also made some great choices. I’ve learned a lot of valuable life and money lessons, and now I am happier than ever.
While I am not perfect and don’t have a perfect life, life is good and I am very fortunate. I have great friends, a great family, a happy marriage, wonderful dogs, a business that I love, a life of travel, and more.
Here are 28 life and money lessons I’ve learned in the first 28 years of my life. While some may seem obvious, others may not, but everything below is what makes me who I am today. Plus, you may learn something new or something may just click after reading my list. Enjoy!
1. Value your time.
When I was younger, a year seemed like an extremely long time. Now, it seems like years go by very quickly.
Time is important, and you should value it. Instead of spending your time doing something you dislike, you should make a goal to change the negative things in your life to something you enjoy. Don’t wait decades to start living a life you love.
2. Never compare your beginning to someone else’s middle.
Comparing yourself to others can sometimes give you motivation to work harder, but you also don’t want to be unrealistic or get frustrated.
You should always give yourself time with a new task, and don’t think of yourself as a complete failure because you’re not at the same point as someone else.
Everything takes time, and practice makes perfect.
“One of the great temptations for us as leaders and dreamers is to compare the start of our new adventures to the middle of someone else’s. You work on your first book and pick up Max Lucado’s 14th book and say, ‘Mine isn’t as good.’ You post your first blog post and look at Michael Hyatt’s 100th and think, ‘Mine is nowhere near as great as that.’ You give your first speech and watch Ken Robinson’s 1,000th at TED and think, ‘I’m not great like that.’” – Jon Acuff
3. Create a plan to reach your dreams and goals.
You aren’t going to magically reach your dreams and goals unless you create a plan to do so.
What do you often dream of? Maybe you want a certain career, you want to travel, or something else.
Whatever you want to do, why not create a plan so you can reach your goal? You might live in regret until that happens! You only live once, so a good first step is creating a plan to achieve your dream.
4. Be positive.
I say this in many of my posts, but I truly believe in it. It’s also something that I think more people need to work on.
Being positive can completely change your life. This means you should laugh more, smile more, be happy with yourself (this is very important!), quit being jealous, complain less, have a better outlook on life, and more.
The power of positive thinking may help you:
- Find another option or route.
- Feel motivated, so you can keep pushing forward.
- Move on from your past mistakes.
- Convince yourself that you can improve your situation (career, financial, family, etc.).
- Reach for your goals.
- Be happier.
Related article: Why I Believe Being Positive Can Change Your Financial Situation And Your Life.
5. Learn something new as often as you can.
Back when I was in school, I hated learning new things. Yes, that’s how most children and students are. However, I still remember one day in college when I was a freshman, and there was a man in his 60’s in one of my philosophy classes. We all asked him why he was there, because, as young 18 year olds, we all thought school was such a drag. He proceeded to tell us how learning and school were the best things in life and that one day, while maybe not right now, we would realize that.
Well, now I know.
I enjoy learning new things more than ever. I’m constantly reading and learning about new things, whereas before I probably would have laughed at myself.
There is so much to learn in the world, and it is so easy to do so. There are classes, articles, great books, and many more things that are so easily accessible in this day and age.
6. Stop living in regret.
You can’t change the past, so there is no point in dwelling on regret and letting it negatively impact you. Instead, you should learn from your mistakes and move on.
7. Don’t care about what anyone else thinks.
This is one that took me awhile to realize, but thankfully I truly believe it now. You should do things for you and not let other people’s opinion’s rule your life.
Do what is right for you!
8. Live life to the fullest.
No matter who a person is, what they are currently doing, how much money they have in the bank, and so on, everyone can start living life to the fullest.
You just never know what may happen in the future, so taking advantage of the time you have now is very important. No one ever wants their life to flash before their eyes and wonder whether their life was meaningful or not, if they had a good time, or whether or not they regret past decisions.
And, yes, you can live a great life on a realistic budget.
9. Cherish moments with loved ones.
Now that we travel full-time, we don’t see family and friends as often as we used to. In fact, we haven’t been “home” in many months.
I’ve always cherished the time I have with those I love, but now I make sure to make each trip even more special.
You should never take a moment for granted with those that you love. This will sound very doom and gloom, but you just never know what may happen to you or them. Plus, spending time with your loved ones is always a great time, so why not just do it more?!
10. Make time for fun.
All work and no play is never good for anyone.
You should always make time for the things that you love, even if it’s just a few hours each week. This can help lift your mood, increase your motivation, and more.
11. Excuses are just that – excuses.
Many people make excuses for why things aren’t going their way. Yes, sometimes you may find yourself in a bad situation, but it doesn’t mean that you’re not in control of your own destiny.
Don’t let excuses hold you back. Instead, take action in your life and overcome the obstacles in your path.
12. Do what YOU want to do.
What makes you happy, excited, joyful, and motivated? That’s what you should be doing with your life (as long as it’s legal)!
If you want to live a life of adventure – Go for it.
If you want to start a family – Start planning one.
If you want a better job – Get one.
If you want to change the world – Do it.
13. Less is more.
The idea that less is more is something I think about nearly every day.
After having to get rid of the majority of our belongings to move into our RV full-time, I truly realized how less is more. We had so much junk that we had never touched, and it wasn’t improving our lives in any way.
Having less stuff is great for many reasons:
- Less clutter.
- We can give more attention to what truly matters.
- Less money spent on things that don’t matter.
14. Laughter is the best form of medicine.
Laughter and happiness can pretty much cure anything. Next time you’re feeling down, try to find a way to laugh. It will help!
15. Help others as much as you can.
Helping others can change more than just your life. Whether you do something big or small, do something! The smallest gesture can make someone’s day and completely change how they feel.
Here are a few ways to help others:
- Smile and say hello to everyone you cross paths with.
- Donate items from your home.
- Donate blood.
- Encourage someone who is struggling.
- Foster an animal.
- Become a Big Brother or a Big Sister.
- Volunteer.
Read more at 58 Random Acts Of Kindness.
16. Sometimes you just have to go for it.
You’ll never know what the outcome is if you don’t just go for it. Instead of constantly thinking “what if?” you may just want to take the leap and finally try it out.
17. Dogs are awesome.
Here’s proof.
18. Gain control of your financial situation.
Money isn’t everything, but being in a good financial situation may make your life easier.
You should pay off your debt, earn more money than you spend, stop keeping up with the Joneses, save for retirement, and so on. These are very important money lessons to learn.
Gaining control of your financial situation is important because you won’t feel as stuck when it comes to money. You will probably be able to do more with your life because you won’t be held back by monetary problems.
This can help you reach your dreams, such as traveling more, following your passion, be less stressed, and more.
19. You can say no.
You don’t have to say yes to every single request. Saying yes can be great if you have the time, but saying yes to everything can also cause a lot of stress and lead to people taking advantage of you.
Sometimes you have to evaluate your options and possibly say no.
20. Gossip stinks.
Gossipping doesn’t help anyone.
If you don’t like someone or you don’t like what they’re doing, why should you spend your time thinking about them or talking about them to others? That is just a waste of time!
21. Don’t let life pass you by.
It can be really easy to let life pass you by. Before you know it, years or even decades may be gone.
Too many people have the mindset of “Oh, in 10 years life will be so much better because of this and that.” And then they just let their lives go by without ever thinking about the present.
Well, what about now?! 10 years is a long time! Reaching a goal is great, but during the present you should try to fit in some happiness as well (on a budget, of course).
22. See the beauty in everything.
There are beautiful things all around us. Instead of seeing the bad in things, try to see the good.
23. Kill them with kindness.
Being kind to others is always important, even when a person is being negative, hurtful, or difficult.
Whenever someone is being difficult in my life, I almost always attempt to kill them with kindness.
And, I’ve found that it works 99% of the time.
24. Be open to new things and tackle your fears.
When was the last time you did something new? So many people live inside their comfort zone when they actually need to branch out every now and then.
Yes, stepping outside of your box can be tough, but what if it completely opened your eyes and changed your whole outlook on life? Wouldn’t that be amazing?
Related: 10 Daily Challenges To Improve Your Life
25. Balance is important.
You can’t do everything 24/7. You need some sort of balance to stay sane.
26. Be confident.
Being confident can help you succeed in life. If you don’t believe in yourself, then who will?
27. Money is just money.
Too many people let money take over their life in ways that don’t bring them any joy. Yes, you need money in order to pay bills and to survive, but it is just money.
This can be one of the hardest money lessons to learn, because earning more money can positively impact your life. But, don’t let money take over your life or think that it will make you a better person. You should use it as a tool to help improve your life.
Instead of thinking about money in a negative way, think about it in a positive way and take actions to improve your financial situation.
28. Traveling full-time is amazing.
Traveling full-time is absolutely amazing. While I know that not everyone likes to travel, I know that I do.
We have many travel plans for the year, which is a must when you travel full-time! We plan on exploring the west coast, a 2 week sailing trip in the British Virgin Islands where I will learn to sail, and more.
I love being able to live by the beach, mountains, desert, and anywhere else we choose to go. I love that I am spending more time outside and hiking nearly every single day. I love how beautiful the outdoors are. I love meeting new people and trying new things.
And, I’m so glad that I gave this untraditional lifestyle a chance.
Related: 11 Reasons to Choose RV Life
What life and money lessons do you think are important?
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Mustard Seed Money says
First off let me say Happy Birthday!!! Second these are great reflective points!!! Recently I have been working a lot on tackling my fears. I get too conservative at times and don’t take as many chances as I’d like from time to time. I’m getting better at taking calculated risks along the way but still have a long way to go 🙂
Michelle Schroeder-Gardner says
Thank you!
Ms. Frugal Asian Finance says
Happy birthday, Michelle! These are great advice. I particularly like the one about “killing them with kindness.” I’m trying to practice more in my life. Glad it works for you!
Michelle Schroeder-Gardner says
Yesss!
Nicole @ Budget Like a Lady says
Happy birthday!
These are all great lessons! Especially the dog lesson. I have a soon to be 12 year old Beatle and she is awesome!
Michelle Schroeder-Gardner says
Thanks!
Dave @ Run The Money says
Happy Birthday!
#6 and #7 are big culprits in my life. But, then, as I look at your list, I realize that it’s because I don’t do #8, #9, and make excuses like in #11.
So, yeah, plenty for me to think about. And some great lessons for all of us to live by!
Michelle Schroeder-Gardner says
Thanks!
Matt @ Optimize Your Life says
Happy birthday!
I’m on board with the vast majority of these.
“2. Never compare your beginning to someone else’s middle.” This is one that I know, but still struggle with. It is so easy to look at someone else’s achievements, see how far you are from them, and assume that they are unattainable. I need to keep reminding myself that they took a lot of little steps to get there and the path is still available for anyone else to follow.
Michelle Schroeder-Gardner says
Thank you!
The Giving Budget says
Happy Birthday.
Out of all of these number 1 is the most important to me!
I have recently been working on this very one. Time is something that goes so quickly and before we know it our kids are grown and our plans we had for that crazy lifestyle we once wanted have passed by.
Like you said don’t stay in something you do not absolutly love! It is never worth it as there is always a way for change.
Michelle Schroeder-Gardner says
Yes, exactly!
Chonce says
Happy birthday! I think these are some terrific life and money lessons. I’ve learned quite a few myself, and to think that I’m still learning is incredible! Enjoy your day and congrats on being a year older!
Michelle Schroeder-Gardner says
Thank you!
Ryan @ Just Another Dollar says
I’ve learned many of the same lessons over my 29 years, and we have changed our entire life in the last year to really make the most of every day. We moved to a state where we could be active and enjoy the outdoors without necessarily breaking the bank. We’ve worked to become a team, focused on paying down our debt, and now dream of a simple life with a menagerie of animals where we can give back to society. Hope the next year brings you continued success and happiness!
Ryan
Michelle Schroeder-Gardner says
Thanks Ryan!
Michelle Schroeder-Gardner says
Thanks Elaine!
Cherry Lacsina says
#2 is a good reminder. I’m 28, turning 29 in July, and I just started blogging. It’s hard to think that I can someday have a blog like yours when I just started. Some bloggers I’ve read about have start as young as 20 so I feel a bit pressured to catch up.
Michelle Schroeder-Gardner says
Don’t feel pressured at all 🙂
michelle says
Happy Birthday!! I love them all but #28 is one of my favorites! I’m looking forward to traveling more in our RV next year.
Michelle Schroeder-Gardner says
Thanks!
FinanceSuperhero says
I’m glad to see that you mentioned kindness and confidence. They are a very powerful combination!
Happy birthday!
Michelle Schroeder-Gardner says
Thank you!
Catherine says
Yes, you are so right! When you’re in a miserable job, it’s really hard to get motivated. Not only does it impact your productivity level but you’re definitely less focused on finances. Which we all know that can lead to a negative path. So doing what you love with people you love being around definitely matters!
I personally have experienced not only a career field that I didn’t love but a pretty toxic work environment. Not only was my spending out of control (to try and over compensate for how miserable I was). Great article!
By the way, happy birthday! Made it a memorable one! 🙂
Michelle Schroeder-Gardner says
Thank you!
Lily @ The Frugal Gene says
Happy Birthday!!! *confetti*
I wanted to say this is the list of a very happy person and a true optimist because you can hear the happiest tone in everything that has been written. I am also firm that if I read this list 3 years ago today I would have thought this was a cheesy list because (at the time) I was in a negative position and completely submerged in my misery to see the beauty of life or wrap my head around valuing what I already had.
This post hightlights where we all should be and reach in life.
Michelle Schroeder-Gardner says
Thanks!
Mrs. Picky Pincher says
Happy birthday! I love that most of these money lessons aren’t about money at all. Money is a tool, but it doesn’t have to influence or control your life. I’m trying to build positivity into my own life after realizing this. It isn’t easy, but it’s the real meaning of life.
Michelle Schroeder-Gardner says
Yes, exactly!
The Savvy Couple says
Awesome list! Certainly going to share it with our readers. =)
Michelle Schroeder-Gardner says
Thanks!
Alexis @FITnancials says
I don’t think I value my time enough. I’m always in a rush and thinking about the next hour, the next day, or months down the road. It’s a really bad habit of mine.This year has gone by really quick, especially because it seems like we moved to Austin yesterday, and it’s already been a year!
Michelle Schroeder-Gardner says
Valuing your time is extremely important.
Mrs. Groovy says
Happy birthday!
#1 has become most important to me as time seems to go by more quickly each year.
#19 and #20 are often overlooked. It’s un-original but I like to say that “No” is a full sentence. As for gossip, I admit at times it feels good but it’s a complete energy zapper and puts out bad karma!
Michelle Schroeder-Gardner says
Thanks!
Michelle Schroeder-Gardner says
yes!
Tegan says
Happy birthday! I hope you’re having a fabulous day. Thank you for this article. I definitely will come back and read it again & again.
27. I do need to learn that money is just money and think of it more in a positive way.
Durga says
Happy Birthday Michelle 🙂
All the lessons you have learn are really enough to lead life. I just felt they are all my lessons by reading them. Your thoughts really reflect the happiest life you lead. From all the points Point 4 is the most important I think. Being positive leads to all other points you mentioned.
Kate says
These are such good points, and I really agree with no 17- dogs are the best! Right now I’m typing this with our little griffon snuggled in my lap. The simple things bring so much joy 🙂
Trisha @MendingPockets says
Learning to be content with the stuff I currently have, and not feel socially pressured to keep up with the Joneses, has helped my budget enormously. I find the tip to spend less than I earn crucial advice also. I can spend less when I’m content with the stuff I have. It’s a cycle. Someday some of the stuff will need replacement, so saving now little by little for future expenses also has revolutionized my finances. Thanks for this great article and Happy Birthday!! I celebrated mine on the 19th!
Kristine Puzel says
Funny how these are all things we have heard before, but we DO NEED to hear & read them over and over again. Thank you for condensing this – ‘Extremely Important Life Guidelines’. Best wishes for a happy birthday!!
Adriana @MoneyJourney says
Happy belated birthday!
Looking back on what life taught you is indeed an interesting “exercise”.
Some of the life lessons here I’ve learned only recently, others I’ve been living by ever since I discovered I’m responsible for my own well being.
If I may, there’s one piece of advice I like to pass on every chance I get: live the life you want for yourself, not one others imagined would fit you best. Trying to make others happy at your own expense doesn’t work.
Jason says
This is a very solid list. I can relate to some more than others. Number 12 ” Do what you want to do” sticks out to me the most right now. I’m working hard to get to the point where I can do what I want to do every day.
Yaz | The Wallet Moth says
Happy Birthday Michelle!
What a wonderful sum of life lessons learned. I think it’s obvious to anyone reading this site that building your empire from the ground has made you incredibly humble and thankful for the lifestyle you’ve created.
Glad you’re still loving the travelling lifestyle! I recently passed the three month mark and honestly, I can’t see myself turning back either!
Lovely Life Cents says
Happy birthday Michelle!
I have been reading your blog for some time and you truly are an inspiration.
I especially resonate with the “you can say no” tip. This is something I had struggled with in the past and it left me constantly stressed and with too much on my plate. Once I realized I could say no, my life changed completely!
The Money Xpert says
Great Post Michelle!
These are some great posts, not only for managing money but for everyday life. I have been recently working on being more grateful for the things I have and I have found that it makes me a lot happier and more successful both at work and in my personal life.
Oh yeah, dogs are definitely awesome!!
hannah says
Michelle,
First off…your only 27? How did I miss that. What an inspiration. Thank you so much for writing this. Your posts are always a fantastic read this side of the globe!
giulia says
First: Happy birthday…for the rest I’m agree with the entire post:D
cece says
Love this list!! You are one wise woman!
Ten Factorial Rocks says
Michelle,
Great reflections. I wish I knew as much when I was 28! These lessons have clearly set you up well for life.
Natalie says
Happy birthday! Hope you had a perfect birthday and 28 is even better for you!!
Yudith @raisefrequency says
Congratulations in your birthday, my mother’s birthday is also on the same day as yours. I enjoyed reading your money and life lessons. My favorite ones are: “Don’t care about what anyone else thinks”, “Make time for fun”, “Laughter is the best form of medicine”, “Create a plan to reach your dreams and goals” and the most favorite one is “See the beauty in everything”.
Money is a great teacher because we attach so many emotions, fears and beliefs to money. The reality is what you stated “Money is just money”. Money is neutral, money is what we make of it. When we work on releasing our fears and upgrading our emotions and beliefs about money, we harness wisdom from the lessons that money provides.