Jessicabanaghan: 25 Thoughts on my 25th Birthday

"The more you thank life, the more life gives you to be thankful for"

1. Time off.

One thing I did a lot when I was 24 is I took time away from my phone & turned off from the online world. I took a social media break for two months and it was one of the best things I could have done for my head.

2. Trust your gut.

You can ask 5 people for advice, they can all say different things but you’re the only one who can make a decision. Trust your own gut instinct and follow what you think is right and what's best for you.

3. It's ok to cry.

I don't think I cried all that much in the last 12 months, but I know it's ok to cry and let it out. It does make you feel better and feel stronger because when you hit rock bottom, the only way to go from this is up.

4. Get out.

I procrastinate. I like being bored. But, sometimes you need to pull yourself out of the bed or out of a Netflix binge and go out and enjoy the world and make the most of your time. Time is precious.

5. Don't waste time.

I've said goodbye to relationships & friendships in the last 12 months. Although it's sad when they end, always realise you can create new ones or rebuild old ones you miss. But, if you ever feel like someone doesn't fit into your life or whatever the reason might be, it's ok, don't waste each others time if you don't want them in your life. It's natural, it's life.

6. Follow your heart

Like a boy? Text him! Want the dress? Buy it! Want to travel? Book the flights! We can get so caught up in a routine and we get so comfortable and scared to take risks and do what we want to do in life. Take the risk & enjoy the rollercoaster.

7. Me time

It takes some people a long time to really enjoy their company. I'm always surrounded people at work, at home etc. but it's so important to take 'me time' whether it's for a walk, a bath or whatever you like to do. Take some time, just you and your thoughts and feel content in your own company.

8. Speak up

If you have a problem, or if anything is bothering you in general life, work or school, speak to someone you trust. Always know there is someone that will listen and help with finding a solution.

9. Saving

Saving money is really hard. I never really saved properly until a few months ago. But, if you stick to it, you will get used to it and you really think about what you're spending your money on. I sadly can't remember the last time I bought clothes because I'm strict on myself!

10. Positivity

Positivity is contagious so it's always great being around it. But, negativity is also contagious, if you're near it, stay away.

11. Changing

Although we would all like to think it's possible, you can't change anyone. You may be able to change their opinion or view if you keep at them. But, you can't change someone for who they are or make them the person you want them to be. If you try to, they're not the one for you.

12. Quality than Quantity

This can really go for any part of life but mostly I mean friendships. I'm not exactly Ms.Popular but I do have a handful of very close friendships and I couldn't be happier. Don't try to please and be friends with everyone, focus on the people that make you happy.

13. Write it down

Whether it's with a pen and paper or notes on your phone, if you ever feel sad, angry or anxious, write it down and let it out. Just keep writing until you can't. Re-read it and then put it away. It's the best way to let something out if you don't want to talk to someone.

14. Stop comparing

I could spend hours comparing myself to bloggers, models and celebrities wishing I had their content, beauty, style etc. The only person you should be focusing on is you and work on you.

15. Gratitude

Instead of waking up every day thinking you don't want to get out of bed, having the fear or thinking whether you need that job, list a few things that you're grateful for. It sounds cringe, I know, but sometimes we can get so caught up in negative thoughts that we forget the small things we're thankful for in life.

16. What goes in must come out

Now, I'm talking about food before you get any weird thoughts! Over the past few months, I've really learned the meaning that if you eat bad food, you're going to feel bad. I rarely eat takeaways or bad food and I noticed I've more motivation, feel better and don't feel as sluggish as I used to.

17. Good things will come

Stop wishing for things to happen straight away. Good things come to those who wait. Just go on about your life because you never know who or what might come around the corner.

18. Experience over materials

I was never a materialistic person but I've come to more of a realisation that I would happily spend all my money on concerts, music festivals or holidays rather than on clothes or handbags. Experiences are what make us the people we are today and are way better memories to have.

19. Stop making excuses

If you keep avoiding something, just face it and stop wasting time and building something up. So if it's someone that's not picking up their weight, refusing to clean your room or whatever it might be, just face it or make a decision of what you need to do.

20. Follow your dreams

It doesn't matter what others say, no dream or aspiration is too big or too small. If you want to achieve something, start something new or create something, do it and chase the dream.

21. Everything will work out

If you mess up or if you're anxious about life, just realise everything will always work out, no matter what the situation is. Life is a rollercoaster filled with ups and downs. So, just take it as it comes.

22. Let go when you're ready

If I was to scroll through my phone, there is a lot of photos and videos I can't get rid of because although I should move on and let go, sometimes it's not that easy. Holding onto stuff can be hard and easy at the same time. Deal with change your way and let go when yoou feel it's right.

23. Embrace the weirdness

Everyone is weird, so don't feel like you can't be yourself and you feel like you're too weird. If you know you're weird and you're not afraid to show it, embrace it because people love it.

24. Last minute plans

Although I hate surprises (secretly love them) and last minute plans (because I like being organised and in control), they do make the best of memories and they really are the best. Don't be afraid to change your mind or just go with the flow.

25. Be Proud

I've made mistakes. I've done silly things. I've been very lucky. I've come a long way. But overall, I'm proud of the person I am so far. Now that I'm 25, here's to more years creating a life I want to live and becoming a person that I've always wanted to become.