30 Things I Learned in 2018

I know it’s now 2019 but in order to crush the year ahead I needed to reflect and take stock of the last year because I plan to continue building upon it. I feel in order for anyone to move forward you have to look long and hard at yourself over the previous twelve months both personally and professionally. So I sat down with a pen and paper (with a glass of wine in front of a fire) and started jotting down 30 things I learned in 2018. I’m not going to lie, I kinda borrowed (stole) this idea from Audrey McClelland of MomGenerations. But she did 50.

Yet before I go ahead with my list I think I should share a little back story. 2018 started out rough but turned into one of my best years to date. I was and am still in chronic back pain but the way I deal with it has changed so dramatically I can not believe it. Mostly it had to do with a mind shift nearly halfway through the year that all began with my journey of mediation. I had taken my son to what I thought was a mediation for kids. It wasn’t. I stayed and left blown away. I had found a new way to relieve my pain. Mediation has brought such happiness and lightness to my life. I now focus on what’s truly important and the things that are not I just let go of (like popping a bubble).

As I sat and reflected the one word that kept coming back to me was “gratitude.” So I decided to make that my word for 2019. I am so grateful for the amazing people I met last year and even more grateful for the strength I showed in letting go of the ones who no longer brought me joy. I let them go because I realized they were negative and I don’t need that energy in my life.

YES! I LOOK FORWARD TO #GROWINGYOUNGER

PLEASE SUBSCRIBE ME TO YOUR MAILING LIST.
* indicates required

And since we are the Fountain Of 30, I thought I should list 30 things I learned in 2018. It’s a random stream of consciousness and not in any particular order. More of a brain dump, if you will.

30 Things I Learned in 2018 cabi clothing fall 2018 collection woman black sweater on bridge

30 Things I Learned in 2018

I learned to be grateful and show gratitude.

I learned to appreciate what my body can do and not focus on what it can’t.

I learned to believe in myself and trust my gut. Take that risk.

I learned I say “sorry’ too much and that is going to end.

I learned it’s OK to walk away from people who bring you down, no matter how long you have known them.

I learned to breathe, really breathe, like into my stomach.

I learned to not be jealous. We all have good days and we all have bad days. It all evens out.

I learned the only thing I can control in life is me. Realizing I can’t control situations and/or outcomes is so freeing.

I learned that my sons are turning into their own little people and I love it, but they are pulling away which I don’t love. Such is life.

I learned I love to meditate which is surprising since I am Type A. (Now I’m an A minus).

I learned it’s OK to say no.

I learned to live in the moment. The past is gone.

I learned every day is a gift and a new beginning.

I learned there is a hippie living inside of me and I am embracing her. I even wear crystals now. I want to move to Sea Cliff. Who am I?

I learned that the new PS4 we got the kids was a huge mistake. Instead of bringing them together to play, they fight more.

I learned I really want another dog. It’s not just the kids.

I learned to go after my dreams and that you’re never too old to have them.

I learned to shut up more and listen.

I learned to be more sympathetic.

I learned you’re never too old to learn and the day you do, you die.

I learned self-love is the best love.

I learned I can no longer drink on an empty stomach and truth be told, I really can’t drink that much anymore.

I learned I really don’t care for rosé.

I learned it’s OK to ask for help when you are in the weeds.

I learned I miss writing. I spend so much time on the other business facets of blogging and social media I don’t write enough anymore.

I learned I want to write a book. Subject is being flushed out.

I learned to let go of my anger and it feels awesome. In doing so I notice I have more friends which is an added bonus.

I learned there are a lot of selfish people out there, but there are also a lot of amazing selfless people too.

I learned I need to be less judgemental. I came a long way in 2018 but want to really hone in on this in 2019. Practicing non-judgment is really hard.

I learned I need to take notice of the chemicals I put on my body, not just into it. I will venture even further into green beauty in 2019.

I learned that mediation actually gives me more time because it helps me focus on what’s important.

I learned not to chase my own tail.

I learned I am a good friend.

I learned had I known how much I loved being a mom I would have started earlier and had 6 kids!

I learned to have faith in the universe and what you put out there you will get back.

I learned I can’t count to 30.

I’m ready for you 2019. Let’s do this!

Lauren Dimet Waters Looking Back at 2018

Happy New Year!

Lauren Dimet Waters Signature

What things have you learned in 2018?

You may also like to read 10 Amazing Anti-Aging Pumpkin Skincare Products and Watch My Beauty & Fashion Tips for Women Over 30 on “The Daily Glow”

Are you following Fountain Of 30 on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest? We’ve got lots going on, so join in on the fun! Subscribe to our newsletter here.  You don’t want to miss a post and promise not to bug you to death. Oh and we also started a Facebook Group called Aging Backwards! for women to discuss everything good and bad about being over 40.

Photos: Gretchen Murcott and Fountain Of 30

Please pin!

30 Things I Learned in 2018

3 thoughts on “30 Things I Learned in 2018”

  1. Hey there our beautiful Lauren, you are so gorgeous and looking so very happy. Your husband and your two boys look very loved,so happy and very,very handsome.
    Love you’re fountainof30.
    From Dr. Jim and Mikie, May this New Year bring you and your family love,health,great happiness and a blessed 2019.
    Love,Mikie

    Reply
  2. Love you.

    Reply

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.