Help! I Just Turned 30! What now?

Well, hey there, newly-minted 30-year-old! First of all, let me say, "WELCOME TO THE CLUB!" You may have been dreading this day just like most of us did, but trust me, it's not all that bad. In fact, it's a new beginning, a chance to set new goals and take charge of your life. So, let's dive in and answer the question, "What now?" and figure out what to do with your life now that you've crossed the threshold into your thirties.

1. Take stock of your life.

This is a great time to take a step back and evaluate where you are, what you've accomplished, what you're proud of, and what you still want to achieve. This can help you set realistic goals for the future and determine the areas of your life that need improvement. Start by asking yourself basic questions like: “Am I happy with where I am in life?” “Am I living the life I always wanted?” “What steps do I need to take to get where I want to be?”

2. Get your finances in order.

Let's get real: your 20s were probably a time of fun, exploration, and (let's admit it) financial instability. But now that you're in your 30s, it's time to start saving for the future. Assess your debt situation, create a budget plan, open a retirement account, or increase your contributions. Being financially responsible now will help you achieve the life goals you want to reach.

3. Simplify your life.

In this fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in the trap of accumulating things, both physical and mental. But, as you move into your 30s, you’ll probably realize that you are not the same person you were in your 20s. Life is not just about acquiring more and more things. This is a perfect time to declutter your home and mind, get rid of things you don't need, and make way for new experiences and opportunities.

4. Pursue your passions.

Whether it's painting, playing music, or hiking, make sure you prioritize your hobbies and interests that make you happy. Unlike your 20s when many people had to choose between having fun or focusing on their careers, in your 30s, you can do both and let your passions take a higher position in your life.

5. Embrace the journey.

All of this is to say, remember that life is not a destination but a journey, and you’re in it for the long haul. Embrace your 30s with open arms, and see the beauty in every stage of life. It's easy to get caught up in the societal pressure of what one should have achieved by now and fall into the '30s crisis' but hey, you are on your unique path. Enjoy the journey and trust that everything will fall into place, at the right time.

Celebrate!

Turning 30 is not a death sentence but is most definitely one of life’s pivotal moments. It’s a perfect time to reflect on what we have accomplished, and where we want to go, set goals, and potential changes to enjoy our 30s better. Whatever next steps you decide to take, remember that there's no right or wrong way to go, and it’s all about finding what works best for you. You got this!