11 Things Everyone Should Know By The Age of 35

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Turning 35 is an exciting milestone, often a time when we start to see ourselves—and the world—a bit more clearly. By now, we’ve all faced our share of ups and downs, made a few mistakes, and hopefully learned a lot along the way. Here are 11 life lessons that can help you live with more balance, confidence, and satisfaction as you embrace this next chapter.

Knowing Your Personal Values

By 35, you’ve likely gotten a pretty good sense of what matters most to you—whether it’s family, honesty, creativity, or kindness. Your values act as your internal compass, helping you make decisions and guiding you toward the life you want. If you’re clear about your values, life’s big choices don’t feel quite so overwhelming. Embrace them and let them keep you on track.

Good Read: “Dare to Lead” by Brené Brown – This book dives into how we can lead with courage by staying true to ourselves, even when it’s challenging.

Financial Literacy Isn’t Optional

Finances can be a tricky subject, but having a basic understanding of budgeting, saving, and investing is a must by 35. Life feels a whole lot easier with a safety net (hello, emergency fund) and a plan for the future. Financial literacy empowers you, helping you avoid debt, save smarter, and maybe even take a few financial risks that could pay off big-time.

Boundaries Are Your Best Friend

Boundaries aren’t about shutting people out; they’re about creating healthy space for yourself. Whether it’s saying “no” to overworking, choosing the friendships that add to your life, or protecting your family time, boundaries are there to support you. When you learn how to set and respect them, you can handle life’s stresses with more ease and grace.

Keep Learning, Always

Gone are the days when learning stopped after graduation. Life moves fast, and keeping your curiosity alive helps you grow and adapt. Whether it’s picking up a new hobby, developing skills at work, or just diving into topics that interest you, learning keeps you engaged with the world. Plus, it just makes life more interesting!

Networking Is More Than a Buzzword

Building a network isn’t just for climbing the career ladder—it’s about building relationships and expanding your world. Good connections can lead to exciting opportunities, mentorship, and friendships. By now, you’ve probably learned that no one goes it alone in this world, so invest in the people who inspire and support you. You never know where a strong network might lead.

Self-Care and Mental Health Matter

Taking care of your mental health is just as important as staying physically healthy. Maybe you’ve already found what works for you—whether that’s journaling, working out, meditating, or talking to someone who gets it. Whatever your self-care routine looks like, make it a priority. Managing stress and staying grounded can make all the difference in your quality of life.

Self-Care Pick: TheraBox Subscription Box – This monthly box is filled with curated self-care items to help you relax and recharge.

Be Ambitious, But Don’t Forget to Enjoy the Moment

Dreams and goals give us purpose, but they can also make us feel like we’re always racing toward the next thing. It’s essential to find a balance between ambition and contentment, knowing that it’s okay to appreciate where you are, even if you’re not where you thought you’d be. Enjoying the moment can make life feel more fulfilling, and it’s often the little moments that mean the most.

Healthy Relationships Are Worth the Effort

Relationships are a big part of life, and by now, you’ve probably learned a thing or two about what makes them thrive. Mutual respect, trust, and open communication are at the heart of any solid relationship, whether it’s with family, friends, or a partner. Prioritize the people who lift you up, and let go of those who drain you. Quality relationships are worth every bit of effort.

Empathy and Emotional Intelligence Go a Long Way

Emotional intelligence might be one of the most underrated skills out there. Knowing how to understand your own emotions—and how to relate to others—can change your whole outlook on life. Practicing empathy helps you connect with people and see things from perspectives you might not have considered. Life’s just better when we make space for kindness and understanding.

Enjoying Solitude is Powerful

Being able to spend time alone without feeling lonely is a superpower. Solitude gives you space to think, recharge, and reflect on what really matters to you. It can even help you discover new passions or make important decisions with clarity. When you’re comfortable being alone, you start making choices based on what’s right for you, not just what everyone else expects.

Letting Go is an Essential Skill

We’ve all held onto things—grudges, mistakes, old habits—that no longer serve us. Learning to let go is freeing. By 35, knowing when to move on from toxic relationships, regrets, or outdated beliefs can make a huge difference in your happiness and growth. Letting go is part of moving forward, and it creates space for new, positive experiences.

Embrace Life’s Impermanence

Nothing in life is permanent, and that’s actually a beautiful thing. Knowing that everything changes can help us cherish the good times and weather the tough ones. Embracing life’s impermanence gives us perspective, reminding us to appreciate loved ones and make the most of each day. At the end of the day, it’s the journey that counts.

Wrapping Up

Turning 35 isn’t just about getting older—it’s about leveling up. These 11 lessons are about finding what really matters, embracing change, and making peace with life’s ups and downs. With a bit of wisdom, self-compassion, and a commitment to growth, this stage of life can be incredibly fulfilling. Here’s to taking on 35 and beyond with confidence and joy!