Unsolicited Life Advice from Someone Who's Still Figuring It Out

So, you've stumbled upon yet another list of life advice from someone who probably shouldn't be giving it. Welcome! Pull up a chair, grab a glass of wine (or a whole bottle—no judgment here), and let's dive into this hot mess express together. Because honestly, who really has it all figured out? Spoiler alert: it's not me, and I'm willing to bet it's not you either. But hey, that's what makes life interesting, right?

Here are some unsolicited nuggets of wisdom from yours truly, a fellow traveler still navigating the winding roads of adulthood with a questionable GPS signal.

Life Is Chaotic, and So Is My Apartment

Let's get real—life is messy. Not just "spilled coffee on your white shirt" messy, but "I haven't done laundry in two weeks and my plants are dying" messy. And you know what? That's okay.

Why Embracing the Mess Helps:

• Less Stress: Perfection is stressful. Give yourself permission to be imperfect.
• Authenticity Rules: People appreciate realness over a façade of perfection. Own your quirks.
• Growth Opportunities: Mistakes and messes often lead to the best lessons (and the funniest stories).

My Two Cents:

I once tried to follow one of those "perfect morning routines" you see on Instagram. You know, the ones where you wake up at 5 a.m., meditate, journal, run a marathon, and cook a gourmet breakfast—all before 7 a.m. Spoiler: I lasted two days and was miserable. Let's be real: we can't do it all. We can only do our best. So now, I embrace slightly chaotic mornings, and you know what? Life's been better ever since.

Nobody Likes a Try-Hard

Here's a secret: striving for perfection is like chasing a unicorn—fun in theory but ultimately pointless (and a little crazy-looking).

Why Letting Go of Perfection Is Liberating:

• More Happiness: Accepting "good enough" can actually make you happier.
• Increased Productivity: Perfectionism often leads to procrastination. Done is better than perfect.
• Better Relationships: Being imperfect makes you relatable and approachable.

Real Talk:

I used to obsess over every little detail in my work projects, to the point where I'd miss deadlines. Now, I aim for excellence but accept that perfection is unattainable. My stress levels have plummeted, and surprisingly, so has my workload.

Your Journey Is Uniquely Yours

In the age of social media, it's all too easy to compare your behind-the-scenes with someone else's highlight reel. Trust me, that way madness lies.

Why Comparison Is a Trap:

• It's Unrealistic: People curate the best parts of their lives online.
• Breeds Insecurity: Constant comparison erodes self-confidence.
• Wastes Time: Time spent comparing is time not spent improving yourself.

Personal Anecdote:

I once fell into a black hole of comparing myself to someone who seemed to be living the dream—perfect job, perfect partner, perfect life. Later I found out that her pics were filtered and she was miserable at her high-stress job and facing divorce. Lesson learned: focus on your own path.

Saying "No" Is Empowering, Not Rude

Whether it's work demands or social obligations, learning to say "no" is a crucial life skill.

Benefits of Setting Boundaries:

• Protects Your Time: Time is your most valuable asset—spend it wisely.
• Reduces Burnout: Prevents you from stretching yourself too thin.
• Enhances Relationships: Clear boundaries lead to healthier interactions.

From My Life:

I used to be the queen of overcommitment, juggling social events like a circus performer. After my third double-booked Saturday, I realized I needed to chill. Now, I prioritize and don't hesitate to decline invites when I need downtime. FOMO who?

You Can't Pour from an Empty Wine Glass

Taking care of yourself isn't an indulgence—it's a necessity.

Why Self-Care Matters:

• Boosts Mental Health: Reduces stress and anxiety.
• Improves Physical Health: Encourages healthier lifestyle choices.
• Enhances Productivity: A well-rested mind performs better.

My Go-To Self-Care Moves:

• Digital Detox Days: Logging off social media to recharge.
• Guilty Pleasure Reads: Trashy romance novels (or true-crime.. you know, whatever floats your boat) are the jam.
• Spa Nights at Home: Face masks, bubble baths, the works.

Flexibility Is a Strength, Not a Flaw

Sticking to a decision just because you made it isn't noble—it's stubborn.

The Perks of Being Open to Change:

• Personal Growth: New experiences lead to new insights.
• Increased Happiness: Aligns your life with your evolving values.
• Opportunities Galore: Keeps you open to unexpected paths.

Case in Point:

I started out planning to dive deep into the world of nutrition, aiming for a PhD and all. I imagined myself as a top-notch nutritionist, possibly discovering the next superfood or debunking diet myths on daytime TV. After a couple of grueling years immersed in biochem and realizing that lab coats aren't as flattering as I'd hoped, I felt unfulfilled.

So, I pivoted. Big time.

I shifted my focus to writing because, let's face it, I have opinions and the world needs to hear them. Along the way, I became a Primal Health Coach and a Yoga Teacher, combining my passion for wellness with my love for helping others—minus the Petri dishes and late-night cram sessions.

Best decision ever, even if it meant explaining to my parents that "no, I'm not becoming a starving artist" and "yes, yoga pants can be professional attire." Embracing change opened doors I didn't even know existed, and I couldn't be happier straying from the original script.

Don't Take Life Too Seriously

Being able to see the humor in your own foibles makes life infinitely more enjoyable.

Why Humor Is Essential:

• Builds Resilience: Laughter helps you bounce back from setbacks.
• Strengthens Connections: People love someone who can lighten the mood.
• Enhances Well-being: Literally releases feel-good endorphins.

Embarrassing Moment Alert:

I once walked into a glass door at a fancy restaurant—in front of my entire company's Board of Directors. Mortifying? Yes. Hilarious? Also yes. We ended up laughing about it all evening, and it turned into a great story.

Independence Is Great, but So Is Support

You don't have to go it alone. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Benefits of Reaching Out:

• Gains New Perspectives: Others might offer solutions you hadn't considered.
• Builds Community: Fosters deeper relationships.
• Reduces Stress: Sharing burdens makes them lighter.

How I Learned This:

After stubbornly trying to assemble IKEA furniture solo (and ending up with a lopsided bookshelf), I finally asked a friend for help. Not only did we fix it, but we also had a blast—and I learned the value of an extra set of hands (and brains!).

Intuition Is Your Built-In GPS

When logic and emotions are battling it out, sometimes your gut feeling is the tie-breaker.

Why Your Gut Matters:

• Protects You: Can sense red flags you might overlook.
• Guides Decisions: Helps in making choices aligned with your true self.
• Enhances Confidence: Trusting yourself boosts self-assurance.

A Personal Tale:

I had a job offer that looked perfect on paper but something felt off. Ignoring the red flags, I accepted and regretted it within weeks. Now, I listen when my gut whispers (or yells).

Progress Is Progress

Don't wait for the big milestones to acknowledge your efforts.

Why Small Wins Matter:

• Boosts Motivation: Keeps you moving forward.
• Builds Confidence: Recognizes your capabilities.
• Creates Positivity: Fosters a mindset of gratitude.

Examples from My Life:

• Managed to cook a meal without burning it? Victory!
• Finished a book you've been "reading" for months? Go you!
• Resisted the urge to text your ex? Major win!

At the end of the day, none of us have all the answers. Life doesn't come with a manual, and anyone who says they've got it all figured out is either lying or delusional (or maybe both).

So let's cut ourselves some slack, embrace the journey, and maybe enjoy a few laughs along the way. After all, the best stories come from the twists, turns, and occasional faceplants.

Remember:

• Be Kind to Yourself: You're doing the best you can.
• Stay Curious: Keep learning and growing.
• Enjoy the Ride: Life is messy, unpredictable, and absolutely beautiful.
  

Here's to figuring it out together—one misadventure at a time.

XO M