Hello 30: three decades and their lessons

Hello 30! Thank you, universe, for everything.

Three decades, and their lessons:

1. Life is unpredictable, so live every moment while it is there.
2. People come and go (and some are taken away), but life cannot stop.
3. The theory of "survival of the fittest" still holds good.
4. Plan your finances well. Yes, it is important! But don't forget that the struggle is not worth it if you can't enjoy it as well. So live life king-size when you do.
5. Education (not necessarily degree-associated) is one of the strongest gifts you can give yourself.
6. Get your priorities and principles straight. Learn to draw lines when needed, and to let go when it gets taxing. We can't keep everyone happy.
7. Fairy tales can be read again when we have kids, but reality is very different from them. Accept it! Life is never going to be the way we plan or imagine it.
8. Everyone is different, and expectations can ruin a person's individuality. Accept people as they are, and be original.
9. There is nothing wrong in wanting a supporting shoulder. But make sure you make the right choice.
10. Learn to say no!
11. Most importantly, make good friends. The right ones will be lifelines.

These are just a few of many lessons, and most of them are commonly heard. I learnt them the hard way (no shame in accepting it), but I hope the younger ones sink them in a little earlier.

Cheers to the times to come!