By Urja Vaswani
As I approach my 27th birthday, I find myself reflecting on the past years—the wins, the losses, the heartbreaks, and the breakthroughs. Life doesn’t come with a manual, but experience has a way of teaching us lessons we never expected. Here are five things I’ve learned that have reshaped the way I see the world:
1. The One You Chase Is Not Your Love
Love is not a game of pursuit; it’s a connection that flows naturally. I’ve learned that when you have to constantly chase someone—begging for their time, affection, or commitment—they are not meant for you. Real love doesn’t make you question your worth or leave you exhausted from trying. Instead, it feels safe, reciprocated, and effortless.
2. Sometimes, Family Is Found Outside of Blood Ties
While family is often associated with blood relations, life has taught me that love and support can come from unexpected places. Sometimes, the people who stand by you, understand you, and lift you up during your darkest times are not related by blood but by choice. Cherish these connections because family is ultimately about love, not lineage.
3. It’s Okay to Stay in Your Comfort Zone (Sometimes)
There’s an overwhelming pressure to “step out of your comfort zone” to grow, but I’ve realized that comfort zones exist for a reason. They provide safety, rest, and stability. Growth doesn’t always mean constant discomfort; sometimes, it happens quietly within familiar spaces. The key is balance—knowing when to push yourself and when to embrace the comfort you need.
4. People’s Opinions Don’t Matter When You’re Struggling
We often spend so much time worrying about what others think, only to realize that in tough moments, their opinions don’t change anything. When life gets hard, it’s you who has to deal with it—not them. So, why waste time overthinking their judgments? Focus on what truly matters: your well-being and personal growth.
5. Prioritizing Mental Health Is the Best Decision You’ll Ever Make
Nothing in life is more valuable than peace of mind. Learning to prioritize my mental health has been transformative. Whether it’s setting boundaries, seeking therapy, practicing mindfulness, or simply saying ‘no’ to things that drain me, choosing my mental well-being has made life more fulfilling. A healthy mind shapes everything else—your relationships, career, and overall happiness.
As I step into this new chapter of life, I carry these lessons with me—not as rigid rules but as guiding principles. Life will always be unpredictable, but the wisdom we gather along the way makes the journey worthwhile. Here’s to learning, growing, and embracing every experience that shapes us.
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