I started writing the intro to this post two days before my 24th birthday, and then my birthday got in the way and now I’m writing this three days after I turned the big 2-4. (Jk, I don’t think 24 is a big of a deal.)

But I turned 24! Yep, 24 years ago I came into this world.

I’ve been thinking on the many things I’ve learned over the years. On this blog, I love to write on things that I’m struggling with because I want every girl who comes to this blog to know that they’re not alone in what they’re facing. I want this blog to be a breath of fresh air and I want people who read this blog to leave inspired after reading at least one post. So, here are 24 things I’ve learned in my 24 years of life.

1. You don’t have to do everything in one day. Friends, the hustle culture is real and you don’t have to have a full to-do list to feel productive!

2. Knowing God and knowing God are two different things. Get to know your Creator by opening up His Word and start reading.

3. Having a budget is a life-saver. Just do it.

4. Sometimes people won’t like you, and that’s okay. I mean, do I have to explain this one?

5. Reading actually helps your mental health. Um, hello #bookstagram?

6. Get 8 hours of sleep. And rest when you need it.

7. Read and understand God’s Word by reading it every single day as a discipline. Like I said earlier, I cannot stress this enough.

8. Social media indeed is a highlight reel; stop thinking your life is any less because you didn’t have plans on Friday night and the popular girl did.

9. In fact, having plans every night of the week and every weekend is not a goal; sometimes staying in is the best.

10. Work isn’t and shouldn’t be your life.

11. Talk to your grandparents.

12. Now that I mention it, call your Mom. And don’t just ask her if you can microwave plastic; she probably misses you.

13. You don’t have to be super qualified to start something. Just do it.

14. Making friends is hard, but you have to put yourself out there sometimes.

15. A creative outlet is essential, even if you’re not a creative thinker.

16. Stop comparing yourself. Stop looking at and comparing yourself to the influencer’s page or your ex’s new girlfriend’s Instagram page. Just stop.

17. Stop seeking inspiration from social media. You have a purpose—spoiler alert, it’s in the Bible.

18. When you don’t know something, Google it.

19. REST. You probably need it.

20. Journaling is actually good for you. Remember how important creative mindset is?

21. Stop and smell the roses; sometimes, in a world of people chasing the “big dream,” stop and look at the little things.

22. Learn the art of being alone; being alone doesn’t equal loneliness.

23. You don’t have to have life figured out at this age—no matter what people around you tell you.

24. God shows up in everything, even in your messiest of messes.