Traveled alone
Taking a solo trip can be a rite of passage. It’s about pushing your boundaries, understanding your preferences, and truly spending time with yourself. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a longer trip, traveling alone teaches invaluable life skills like independence, decision-making, and perhaps, a touch of street-smart savvy. Pack light, but fill that suitcase with memories!
Established a fitness routine
We’re not talking about training for the Olympics here, but by 30, everyone should recognize the value of a consistent fitness routine. With metabolism often starting its slow decline, it’s the perfect time to establish habits that will keep you feeling young. Finding what gets your heart rate up – and sticking to it – will pay off in the long run. Remember, it’s not just about looking good; it’s about feeling good.
Hacked your hangovers
For many of us, our 20s include a lot of those late-night parties and the all-too-familiar morning-after regrets. By the time 30 rolls in, you should have figured out a hangover remedy that works for you. Whether it’s a particular home remedy, a favorite hydrating drink, or just some good old rest, knowing how to navigate post-party blues is a sign of maturity.
Tried meditation
By 30, everyone should have dabbled in the art of meditation. It’s not just about spirituality; it’s a tool for mental clarity and emotional balance. If the thought of silence makes you restless, have a think about this: have you given your mind a break lately, or has it been endlessly moving through the challenges of life?
Attended a live show
Whether it’s a concert, a musical, or a live podcast recording, being present in the moment, with the collective energy of an audience, is a pretty incomparable feeling. So if by 30, you haven’t yet experienced this, book yourself some tickets and get yourself across to a live show!
Started a bucket list and checked off at least one item
Dreams keep the spirit young, but by 30, it’s also time for a reality check. Creating a bucket list is not about unattainable fantasies but setting actual achievable goals. And what’s more rewarding ticking off at least one? Whether it’s skydiving, learning a new language, or penning that novel, if the list remains untouched, perhaps it’s time to stop dreaming and start doing.
Volunteered for a cause you’re passionate about
Volunteering isn’t about grand gestures; it’s about genuine effort. So, whether it’s helping at a local shelter, teaching kids, or planting trees, dedicating time to a heartfelt cause is a genuinely valuable thing to do. If you hands haven’t gotten dirty for a good reason yet, maybe it’s time to roll up those sleeves and volunteer your time and energy.
Spent a weekend without technology
Ok, the digital age has its perks, but with that, it also has its chains. By 30, the need to unplug is clear. A weekend without technology isn’t about renouncing it but rediscovering life beyond screens. No pings, no notifications, just the real world. If every vibration still dictates your day, it’s probably time to switch off and tune into what’s around you.
Undertaken a major decluttering of personal possessions
Accumulating belongings is easy; letting go, not so much. Yet, by 30, there’s value in having assessed, decluttered, and redefined personal spaces. It’s more than just a physical cleanse; it’s about understanding what truly matters. Staring at that pile of old magazines or the closet bursting with barely worn clothes? Maybe it’s time to ask: are these useful possessions or burdens of the past?
Developed a self-care routine
Self-care isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a necessity. By 30, having a go-to routine, be it a skincare regimen, a monthly spa day, or simply setting aside a quiet hour with a book, can make all the difference. If the daily grind still overshadows moments of self-pampering, perhaps it’s time to prioritize self-love. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup.
Gone on a camping or hiking trip
Whether it’s setting up a tent under the stars, building a campfire, or trekking up a challenging trail, these experiences offer a sense of achievement and connection to the earth. So if your shoes haven’t been muddied or marshmallows haven’t been roasted yet, take this as a sign to step outside your comfort zone and breathe in some fresh air.
Learned basic cooking skills
As the age-old saying goes: ‘the way to a person’s heart is through their stomach’. By 30, knowing a few go-to recipes is essential. Cooking isn’t necessarily about being a master chef; it’s about the satisfaction of transforming ingredients into a tasty dish – and of course your wallet’s satisfaction of spending a lot less money on takeout.
Tried cuisines from at least five different cultures
On the topic of food… sampling cuisines from different cultures isn’t just about experiencing a range of tastes; it’s way of understanding histories, traditions, and the diversities of the world. So, if your taste buds haven’t yet been lit up by spicy curries, tangy ceviches, or fresh sushi, think about taking yourself on a culinary adventure.
Checked in with a therapist
Mental health is as crucial as physical well-being, and by 30, you should have touched base with a therapist, even if just once. It’s not about having a crisis but about understanding yourself, unpacking baggage, or simply getting tools to handle life’s curveballs better. If the idea of therapy still carries a stigma, just remember that seeking help isn’t a sign of weakness but of strength.
Given a talk or presentation
By 30, speaking publicly, perhaps with sweaty palms and a racing heart, is an experience worth ticking off the list. Whether it’s a boardroom or a classroom, giving a talk isn’t just about sharing knowledge. It’s about embracing vulnerability and refining communication skills. If you’ve never taken the microphone yet, maybe it’s time.
Started investing, even if it’s a small amount
There’s a certain thrill in watching money grow without having to touch it. Did you know that investing isn’t just for the wealthy? Making some investments, even if minimal, can introduce you to the world of compounded growth. If the stock market feels like a maze, remember, every investor began with that first, uncertain step. Why not take yours and see where the path leads?
Learned basic home maintenance skills
Appliances falter, pipes leak, and bulbs burn out. While there are benefits of hiring experts, let’s face it, they’re expensive. But it’s not just about saving money, it’s also about understanding the space you live in. Never held a wrench or used a plunger? Perhaps it’s time to get a bit hands-on. There’s a certain pride in fixing something that’s broken, all by yourself.
Thrown a party
Whether it’s a dinner party or a full-blown event, playing host is a rite of passage. Throwing a party isn’t just about entertainment; it’s about creating memories and moments. If your home’s never been filled with guests, perhaps it’s time to send out those invites. Hey, what’s life without some shared joys?
Visited a world wonder
The world is full of marvels, both natural and man-made, and standing in front of a world wonder is almost a pilgrimage. It’s not just about travel, but about recognizing the incredible blend of nature, history, and human ingenuity. If your passport lacks one of those iconic stamps, maybe it’s time to start planning that dream journey.
Built something from scratch
Creation is deeply satisfying – that’s undeniable. Assembling, crafting, or building something with your own two hands, be it a piece of furniture or a digital project, is a must by 30. It isn’t just about the end result – it’s the journey, the skills you acquire, and the pride you feel upon completion. So if you’ve never built something from scratch, perhaps it’s time to dive into a DIY project and enjoy that feeling of accomplishment.
Watched the sunrise
In life, in its business, it’s easy to overlook nature’s simplest joys. Witnessing a sunrise is a meditation in itself. It’s not about the waking up early, but about experiencing the calm and beauty of the beginning of a new day. If you’ve always hit snooze, maybe set that alarm a bit earlier for once, find a viewing spot, and let the rising sun give you a beautiful start to the day.
Created your own signature recipe
It’s a rite of passage to have that one dish that’s all yours. Whether it’s a twist on a classic or something you created during an experimental mood, having a signature dish is a sign that you know what you’re doing in the kitchen. Still flipping through cookbooks without adding a personal touch? Maybe it’s time to mix, match, and create!
Spent a night outdoors
There’s satisfaction in shunning the walls and roofs we’re used to. Experiencing a night exposed to the elements can feel transformative. So, whether it’s camping in the wild or simply stargazing from your backyard, get yourself outdoors and spend some time reconnecting with the Earth.
Spent a day or more in silence
Ding! Ding! Ding! Incessant notifications seem to take over our days. So, there’s an unparalleled power in taking some time to be silent. Taking a day, or even more, to mute external noises can be therapeutic. Whether through a meditation retreat or a personal choice to disconnect, silence can be revelatory.
Tried an extreme sport or activity
The thrill of pushing your boundaries is intoxicating. By the age of 30, you should have pushed yourself out of your comfort zone at least once – be it skydiving, bungee jumping, or whitewater rafting. Haven’t experienced that heart-racing exhilaration yet? Time to leap into an adventure and feel alive.
Attended a music festival
Live music is magic, there’s no doubt about that. Witnessing the atmosphere of a music festival, dancing with others, and losing yourself in the music is always going to lift your spirts. If you haven’t felt the festival vibe yet, maybe it’s time to book tickets to your first big event.
Find out your credit score
Ah, the dreaded credit score. Definitely less thrilling than an extreme sport or a music festival, but incredibly important to be in the know about. Financial literacy extends beyond monthly budgets and savings. A credit score can significantly impact life choices – from home loans to employment opportunities. If your score remains a mystery, isn’t it time to get a grasp of your financial standing?
Conquered a fear
Life’s too short to be tethered by fears. By the time 30 rolls around, taking on at least one phobia, whether it’s fear of heights, public speaking, or spiders, can be liberating. Conquering doesn’t always mean complete eradication but facing it head-on. If a fear has been holding you back, perhaps it’s time to tackle it.
Discovered your family’s history
Delving into family history can give you an understanding of your roots and the legacies that shape your identity. Whether it’s through old photo albums, tales from grandparents, or genealogy tools, understanding the history of your family can be enriching. No idea about your ancestors? Maybe it’s time to do a bit of digging.
Attended a sporting event
Regardless if you’re a die-hard sports fan or just enjoy the fanfare, there aren’t many feelings that are quite like being in a stadium during a match. The crowd, the energy, the suspense of the game – it’s an unmatched experience, and one that you should try and immerse yourself in as soon as possible.
Owned a set of tools
There’s a unique satisfaction that comes from fixing something with your own hands. Before you turn 30, invest in a set of tools so you’re able to play handyman. Whether it’s assembling furniture or tightening a loose screw, these tools mean you can take charge of your space. If every minor malfunction leads to a frantic call for assistance, it’s probably time to invest.
Kept your plants alive
Keeping a plant alive is more than just about watering. It’s understanding, patience, and consistent care. By 30, you should have realized that plants mirror life itself, requiring attention and love to thrive. Does your home sees more wilted leaves than flourishing greens? If so, here’s a gentle nudge to slow down and nurture.
Learned how to read a wine list
By 30, it’s worth knowing your Cabernet from your Chardonnay, not to show off, but to genuinely enjoy and appreciate the symphony of flavors. If every wine list feels like reading a foreign novel, perhaps it’s time to do a little vinous education. Cheers to refined tastes and toasting in style!
Finished a course
Commitment is a journey, and nothing exemplifies this more than beginning and completing a course. Whether it’s a hobby class or a professional program, by 30, it’s essential to have seen something through from start to finish. It’s not about the certificate at the end, but the discipline, determination, and growth along the way – otherwise known as ‘adulting’.
Lived overseas
Experiencing life in a different country, even if only briefly, offers perspectives that no book or documentary can. Immerse yourself in a different culture and gain an understanding of diverse viewpoints. If you’ve never called another country ‘home’, even temporarily, have a think about broadening those horizons.
Treated yourself to a fancy dining experience
It’s an amazing treat to enjoy a meal where the ambience, service, and every bite is an experience in itself. It’s not about the price tag but the memory, that’ll linger long after the last bite. Is fine dining still sitting unchecked on your list? Get yourself dressed up and booked in.
Taken a road trip
You know the phrase, ‘it’s not the destination, it’s the journey’. It’s about rolling with the unexpected, about going off the planned route and discovering something new. If you’ve never just packed up and hit the road, maybe it’s time. Grab some snacks, pick a direction, and just drive. See where the road takes you.
Looked at the night sky through a telescope
Peering through a telescope is more than just a gaze at the stars; it’s a humbling experience. Stargazing is a reminder of our tiny existence amidst an unimaginably large universe. Set your sights skyward, and be amazed at the new perspectives.
Paid off your debts
Credit cards and student loans can be detrimental to your financial stability over time. The more you use these debts, the more difficult it will be to get out from under them when you’re older. Try to pay down your debts as soon as you can before you have more responsibilities, like a family or a mortgage.
Learned a new language
As you get older, you learn that there are things that are easy when you’re young, but more difficult as you get older. Your ability to learn a language is one of them. That’s because as we age, our brains are less receptive to new information and ideas.
Challenged yourself physically
If you already exercise regularly – or if you’re already in great shape – considering a challenge like a 10k or half-marathon will give you something positive to set your sights on. In addition, by making a concrete commitment to achieving something difficult, you’ll be more likely to stick with your routine instead of falling back into less-healthy or sedentary habits.
Experienced culture shock
If you only spend your holidays in an all-inclusive resort, you’re missing out on what travelling can really be about. Sure, there’s nothing wrong with taking a vacation at a resort, but it’s just not the same as immersing yourself in a new culture and trying to understand it. Instead of isolating yourself in an English-speaking corner of the world, go somewhere unique and different.
Developed (and stuck to) a morning routine
A morning routine can be a great way to start your day off on a positive note. Even if you don’t want to spend 45 minutes getting ready, there are small ways you can find happiness – maybe that means making coffee at home or choosing an outfit the night before. Whatever works best for you, there are plenty of benefits to starting your day off with structure.
Prioritized your mental health
It can feel scary and overwhelming to try to prioritize your mental health in a world that doesn’t always make it easy to do so. That’s why it’s so important that you do as much as you can to prioritize your mental health and self-care on a regular basis. Taking at least one hour every day for yourself is an easy way to start making that happen.
Fixed your diet
At a certain point in your life, you’ll reach the realization that your body is not quite as resilient as it once was. The sad truth of the matter is, that if you have a whole pizza and four sodas every day, your body will eventually feel the negative effects. Creating healthy habits now will ensure that you have a strong foundation for your future.
Kept up with the news
While watching or reading the news daily may not be as much fun as indulging in a show or film, it’s a good habit to get into. Not only does it make us more informed about what’s going on globally and in our own communities, but we can feel proud of ourselves for being more well-informed – and then we’re more equipped to make a difference.
Invested in quality over quantity
While it’s common for people in their twenties to purchase items on the cheaper end of the spectrum, it can be a good idea to save up and invest more in quality items as you get older. There are many products that last longer than two or three years when well-maintained, and people often find that they end up spending less on replacing disposable products over time.
Learned to drive
Learning to drive before your 30s is essential for building your self-confidence in the long run. When you’re young you’re more fearless, and that’s a good thing when it comes to learning how to navigate the roads. The most important thing about learning to drive is that you take your time.
Networked successfully
Networking may not be fun, but it’s an important skill to hone by the time you reach your thirties. In any profession, whether you’re a fresh-faced college grad or a seasoned professional, networking can help you to progress in your career. These kinds of connections round out your life and give it depth.
Travelled in first class
First class is now more accessible than ever, and it’s definitely an experience that you should try to have before you turn 30. Take advantage of travel discount cards and rewards programs. There are so many ways to get discounts on hotels and flights that you can come out with more for your money when you plan ahead.
Cleared out your space
While it’s a good idea to keep things that matter to you, at some point you have to get rid of the rest. It’s especially important to make sure you’re making space for new things in your life, and a clutter-free home is more conducive to that. You should try doing at least one big clear-out before you turn 30.
Let go of old grudges
When it comes to past grievances, it’s time to let go. There’s no point in holding on to something that happened years ago and allowing it to affect you. It’s only going to bring you down and make your present life less happy. You don’t need that negativity in your life, and it’s better to set those feelings aside.
Used sunscreen daily
You’re young, you think you’re invincible – and you probably are. But even though the effects of sun damage won’t be evident for years, it’s already happening. You don’t want to look like your dad when you get older, do you? I didn’t think so. Use sunscreen every day, and use a moisturizer with SPF in it.
Quit smoking
Smoking is something that will damage your health – not just in the short term but also in the long term. The years between 20-30 are crucial to lung development, which is why it’s best to quit before you turn 30 if you’ve been a smoker for some time. After 30, your lungs start to regenerate again, so you’ll heal faster if you kick the habit before then.
Learned how to do your taxes
You might be surprised to learn about some of the ways Americans are squandering their hard-earned money. While it’s understandable that you might think certain tax deductions are a waste of time, you could be missing out on thousands of dollars in savings. For example, did you know that nearly half of Americans didn’t know which tax bracket they fall into?
Checked your cholesterol
A lot of people don’t know this, but your cholesterol levels can actually start to increase as early as the age of 20 – and if you haven’t been monitoring them in the meantime, then you could be in trouble when it comes to heart disease. The American Heart Association recommends people get checked every four to six years, starting at age 20.
Learned CPR
If you’re not sure what CPR is, it stands for cardiopulmonary resuscitation. This is the use of chest compressions and mouth-to-mouth breathing to help a person whose heart stops beating. It’s an essential skill to have in case of emergency – and it’s definitely one that everyone should learn by the time they turn 30.
Learned basic self-defense
Taking a self-defense class is an empowering decision and one that will give you a greater sense of control over your safety. It’s also a great way to learn about yourself as an individual and to understand how you can better protect yourself from dangerous situations in the future.
Minimized your waste
We live in a time where we need to make small changes to our lifestyles in order to reduce our negative impact on the environment. What can you do? The easiest thing you can do right now is buy a reusable water bottle that you can fill with tap water and refill as needed. You can also buy reusable produce/grocery bags.
Donated blood
Did you know that hundreds of thousands of people around the United States need blood every year? It’s true, and each donation can save up to three lives. But these days, fewer people are donating blood than ever before. Donating is an easy way to give back to your community. So, hurry up and give blood before you turn 30.
Sent a postcard
In our digital age, it’s easy to forget about the importance of physical correspondence. Despite all the phone calls and emails we send, there’s something so special about receiving something in the mail – especially from loved ones. The physical act of sending out cards or postcards can be just as meaningful as receiving them.
Visited Las Vegas
Going to Vegas for the weekend is a rite of passage for many people. That doesn’t mean it’s something everyone has to do, but there are definitely plenty of reasons to go before you reach your 30s – especially when you’re in your 20s and you’re still young enough to let off some steam and feel invincible.
Have a savings account
Our twenties are often a whirlwind of experiences, personal growth, and occasionally, financial missteps. By the time you hit the big 3-0, make sure to have a savings account in place. Getting serious about your finances now can shape your economic outlook for the coming decades. Think of it as laying the foundation for that dream house, or perhaps, an early retirement!
Have a rainy day fund
The sun doesn’t always shine, does it? There are unexpected events, be it car repairs, health emergencies, or sudden job changes. Having a rainy day fund separate from your regular savings ensures you’re not caught off guard. It’s a good idea to have a stash equivalent to at least three to six months of living expenses. When storms hit, and they sometimes will, it’s nice to know you’ve got an umbrella ready.
Read the classics
By the time you’re 30 years old, you should have read a good number of the classics in literature – books like Pride and Prejudice, Moby Dick, Of Mice And Men and so on. Reading classic novels is an investment in yourself. It helps you to grow intellectually, culturally, and personally.
Visited an art gallery
Visiting museums and galleries is a great way to step out of your daily routines and get in touch with the artistic side of your personality. On the surface, it’s nothing more than a couple of hours spent walking through rooms, looking at paintings. But going to art galleries can make a person feel inspired, uplifted, and re-energized.
Started a business
If you’re like most people, you’ve probably fantasized about quitting your job and running off to start a business of your own. And while that’s less of an unthinkable idea than it used to be, it still has plenty of obstacles. However, there is one time in life when starting your own business is easier than ever: before you turn 30.
Learned basic repair skills
When you’re 30, you’ll probably be living on your own for the first time. That means you’ll have to deal with things like blocked toilets and electrical wiring yourself. While you probably won’t need to know how to rewire your entire house, it’s still a good idea to learn some basic maintenance skills.
Scuba dived
Scuba diving is one of the most exhilarating experiences on this planet. You can’t truly understand it until you’ve gone below the surface and experienced its magic. Breathing underwater, swimming among marine life, and completely forgetting your worries for a while – there’s no other feeling like it. If you haven’t tried it yet, it’s something you need to do before you turn 30.
Learned to sew
Sewing is one of those skills that’s great to have in your back pocket and is something to add to your repertoire if you haven’t learned it already. Mending isn’t always cheap – you can fix things yourself if you know how. And if you have the skill, it’s nice to be able to offer up the service for others in need of mending their garments.
