Reflections on Life – A few things I learned during my 60 trips around the sun

As I celebrated my 60th birthday (what?! 60!), I found myself reflecting on the journey that has brought me to this milestone. As a mentor for many years and a transformation coach, I have had the privilege of guiding many people through their own paths of personal and professional growth.

Now, I want to share some of my top reflections and lessons I've learned through my own experiences. We each have lived our own lives, and the list is not exhaustive, but I hope it helps you reflect on your own journey and see how you can transform any area to live the life you desire and deserve.

Here’s to embracing every moment and learning from each step along this beautiful journey called LIFE!

1. Embrace Change

Life is a series of transformations. Every phase brings new opportunities for growth. Embrace change with an open heart and mind. It’s through change that we find our true selves, discover our strengths and uncover our passions and purpose in life.

2. Prioritize Self-Care

I cannot stress this enough! This has always been a challenge for me as a recovering “people pleaser”. Taking care of yourself is not selfish; it's essential to your mental, emotional and physical well-being. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and mental relaxation are critical to living a meaningful and fulfilling life. You know the saying…you can't pour from an empty cup.

3. Foster Genuine Relationships

Surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you. Quality over quantity is key when it comes to relationships. You don’t have to be the most popular person in the room, you just need your room to be occupied by people who love and support you – no matter how many that may be. Cherish your loved ones and nurture these connections.

4. Never Stop Learning

No matter your age, there is always something new to learn. Keep your mind active and stay curious. Read books, take courses, travel, and engage in conversations with people from different walks of life. I have literally grown and earned more in the last 3 years of my life than I can fully explain. It has been an amazing experience to expand my horizons on many levels.

5. Practice Gratitude

Gratitude literally shifts your focus from what you perceive is lacking to the abundance that already exists in your life. It is the great multiplier! Daily gratitude practices can transform your outlook on life, making you more appreciative and positive, which brings more good things to you. Take time daily to express your gratitude for every little good thing and watch your abundance manifest.

6. Be Present

Live in the moment. Yes, eat the cake and stop saving the good china for “special events”! The past is gone, and the future is uncertain. What you have is now. The only time we all have is now. Engage fully in whatever you are doing and savor the present moments—they are the essence of life. As you string together fully lived “present moments”, you will look back on a beautiful life!

7. Listen to Your Inner Voice

Your intuition is a powerful guide. Trust your instincts and listen to that inner voice. It often knows what’s best for you, even when the logical mind is unsure. You can trust yourself. Release your ego and practice peace.

8. Let Go of What You Can’t Control

This one is absolutely critical to living in your power and peace. Worrying about things beyond your control is futile. Focus on what you can change now and let go of the rest. Release the past – it cannot be changed and release any frustration or fear about the future that has not happened. This mindset brings peace and reduces stress.

9. Give Back

Helping others is one of the most fulfilling experiences I have enjoyed. Whether through mentoring, volunteering, or simply being kind, giving back and paying it forward to others enriches your life and creates a positive ripple effect. This practice also allows you to get outside of yourself, release worry and stress, while focusing on the good you are doing for other people.

10. Embrace Your Authentic Self

You are worthy, lovable and capable! (please read that again out loud) Be true to who you are. Embrace your uniqueness and don’t be afraid to stand out. Living authentically attracts genuine connections and opportunities and leads to a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

Final Thoughts…

Yes, turning 60 is a bit of a milestone, but it is not just about celebrating another year or even the number.

Reflecting on sixty trips around the sun gave me an opportunity to celebrate the wisdom and experiences that have shaped who I was, who I am and who I continue to grow to be. Each lesson learned – even the hard ones, and there have been plenty - is a gift that adds depth and meaning to life. There are no coincidences in life – only little nudges and winks from God, pushing us in one direction or another. As you learn to recognize these signs by staying present, letting go of what you cannot control and practicing gratitude for what is, you will find yourself living in joy, bliss and peace.

I hope some of these insights resonate with you and inspire you to reflect on your own life experiences to help you continue your journey with renewed vigor and purpose.

Here’s to many more years of growth, joy, peace and transformation!

Happy Sun-tripping!

(and no, I did not eat the whole slice of cake, but what if I did?!)