Seasoned With Sydney

I'm in my late twenties and there's still plenty of living to do, but here are some things I've learned so far:

1. If someone wants to talk to you, they will find a way. Don't sit around waiting for a text that may never come. Live your life.

2. Take people at their word. If they say they're not ready for commitment, or kids, or anything else, believe them.

3. Never stop trying to improve yourself. Learning new things is the best and should never be taken for granted. It doesn't matter how "nerdy" it is. Learn about it. Do it for you.

4. Try to sit down and think about how you would want to be remembered. Live that life right now.

5. Only show up for people who show up for you. If you don't respect your time, no one else will either.

6. Give second chances. People screw up (including you). But if it happens a third time, take the message they're trying to send.

7. DO NOT compare your life to others because it will only drive you mad. Be happy for their successes and know that you're going to get some success of your own.

8. Just. Be. Patient.

9. Don't play games. Put yourself out there and hope for the best. The worst they can do is not reciprocate, and that's fine, too. You'll get your answer and the ability to keep it moving.

10. Just because a person is older than you does not mean they're wiser.

11. Just because a person is younger than you does not mean they can't add something to your life.

12. You may get a thousand "no's" and that's okay. When you get that "yes" you'll appreciate it even more.

13. Some people can go through life flying by the seat of their pants and succeed, but that's not for everyone. Don't be jealous, you do you.

14. Call your grandparents just to say "hi" before it's too late.

15. Don't find someone to complete you, find someone who makes you want to be better.

16. If you want to go back to school and you have the means, for heaven's sake, do it. Don't think, just do it.

17. Speak up more often.

18. Learn to play an instrument. Learn to sew. Learn to cook. Write that book. Do something. Do anything.

19. Be more open.

20. Your screw-up is NOT the end of the world, even if it feels like it in the moment. You'll get over it I promise.

21. You are NOT too much. You are NOT a lot. You are enough.

22. Mourning a relationship that could've been is real. Feel your feelings. Feel them.

23. Stay close with your family, and don't just show up when you need something. They're always on your team.

24. Keep a journal. Even if you don't write in it every day, or even every month, you'll be happy one day to see just how far you've come.

25. WHO CARES if that song or movie or tv show or book is "embarrassing"? Do you like it? Then enjoy it. You like what you like, and that's that.

26. Sometimes being impulsive leads to some pretty stellar pay-offs...and sometimes it doesn't. You have to be ready for either outcome.

27. It's fine if you cry, and it's fine if you don't. Whatever you do, make sure it's a healthy way to express yourself.

28. When someone gives you the gifts of trust and vulnerability, do everything in your power not to squander them. It is an honor and a privilege to make someone feel safe.

29. Friendships ebb and flow, and sometimes they end altogether. Someone who was your best friend a year ago may one day be an almost-stranger. That's okay. People grow, and sometimes not in the same direction. If you love each other, you'll find a way to make it work. If not, wish them the best and keep the happy memories tucked away somewhere safe.

30. Be proud of where you came from, and don't let anyone knock it. It's a place that made you who you are. To forget your roots is to forget yourself.

31. If you say you are going to be somewhere, be there. Keep your commitments as often as you can.

32. You may not know who you are yet, and you may never fully, but don't rush the process. Be okay with the slow-burning reveal. You'll be happy you did.