1. You’re not forcing it. Not that friendship that drains all of your energy, not that gluten free fad everyone seems to be buying into, and certainly not the if-you’re-not-married-by-thirty-you’ll-die-alone slippery slope.

2. You trust your story. Your past gives you an edge, and you rather like it. The good, the bad, and the terrible: those experiences have all been instrumental in creating the person you are today.

3. You learn to just accept it. Accepting something doesn’t mean you have to appreciate it. When you start accepting things instead of fighting them, many more doors open up to you. Hello opportunity.

4. You don’t play the victim. You own your decisions and you don’t point the finger when something goes wrong. Whatever happens, you take it in stride. You may not have caused the problem, but you certainly can be part of the solution.

5. You’re setting goals (and actually achieving them). The sky is the limit, and you’re fearless.

6. You put others first. Even though it’s a challenge. Even though it’s frustrating. Even though it’s exhausting and sometimes you just want to curl up in the fetal position and scream like a toddler in the middle of a temper tantrum- you do it. Go you.

7. You’re practicing patience. One day at a time. One step at a time. One breath at a time.

8. You learn to let go. You realize that holding onto things that no longer serve you is like dragging around a dead weight. It may hurt, but you move on.

9. Significance isn’t lost on you. You recognize and appreciate your relationships, whether they be with your friends, your family, or a love interest. You’re self-aware enough, and grateful enough, to realize just how good you really have it. You see the meaning in it all.

10. Boundaries are your friend. You’ve learned how to set them and how to enforce them, and damn does it feel good.

11. You aren’t baited by the comparison game. Wishing you had someone else’s life simply sucks the happiness out of yours. You don’t play that game anymore, ’cause you’re too focused on your own goals and well-being.

12. You’re tactful. The importance often isn’t in what you say, it’s how you say it. 

13. It’s not about the money. You can have all the money in the world and be emotionally bankrupt. You care more about what you are doing than about the size of the compensation. You see yourself as an investment.

14. You practice self-care. Those that don’t take care of themselves and find balance quickly burn out. You simply do not have time for a burn out, so you are sure to make time to recharge your emotional, mental and spiritual batteries.

15. You help others. Because only looking out for yourself gets old. Go out and help somebody.

16. You have passions that aren’t work or your significant other. You have to do some things for you and only you. After all, it’s just as important to love yourself by yourself as it is for you to love your career or partner.

17. You’re financially responsible. 401k? Got it. Paying off those school loans or credit card debt? You’re all about that life.

18. You aren’t reckless. Not with your money, your body, or your heart.

19. You’re dedicated. Every successful twenty-something has something to strive towards. You’re focused, know what you’re working towards, and have a pretty good idea of how long it will take you to get there.

20. You recognize that you can always improve. Whether it is at work or at home, you realize that things take effort to be great. Everything can always be worked on or improved. It is always possible to be a better friend, employee, or partner. You are a work in progress, and you love that about yourself.

Dedicated to all of my any-somethings out there who are doing their small part each day to be the best person they can be. I love you all!

xoxo

Sarah