THE 10 LESSONS I’VE LEARNED IN 33 YEARS

Birthdays can be a mixed bag, but personally, I love looking back on exactly how far I’ve come. I mean, hell, I’ve survived 33 years on this spinning planet. That’s a cause for celebration, right, cowgirl?! Maybe that’s the Gemini in me… but I wanted to share some of the life lessons that have helped my perspective with social media and I know can help with yours, too!

#1 NOT EVERYONE IS GOING TO LIKE YOU - AND THAT'S OK!

You’re not going to be everyone’s cup of tea, on and off the internet. ☕ We all know that, but it can be a hard pill to swallow. Someone wise once said: “What other people think about you is none of your business.” We all have opinions, babe. That doesn’t make them facts. So march to your own drum, forge your own path, and stay true to yourself, because you’re the only one that matters when it comes to loving yourself.

#2 FITTING IN AND DOING WHAT EVERYONE ELSE DOES IS BORING AF.

As a SMM, I see people fall into this trap a lot. They want to be like everyone else, online and IRL. But if I have one tip for social media and for life, it’s that showing up authentically leads to a happier life and biz, deeper friendships, and a hell of a lot more fun.

#3 INVEST MORE MONEY, SOONER.

You might be rolling your eyes at this, but I promise I’m not going all “Crypto Bro” on you. Obviously, investing can be risky and super f*cking scary. But I still wish I did it sooner. It’s changed how my money works for me (like actually works for me, not just collecting digital dust in a bank account).

Don’t be afraid to start small, even if it’s only investing $10/month! Putting it in a place that accrues interest so you don’t have to pinch pennies down the line.

To me, I always refer to time as money. Because regardless of how much physical funds you have, time is the great equalizer - we’re not guaranteed much of it. So invest your time in doing things that bring you joy and outsource the other things that don’t!

#4 ASK QUESTIONS, EVEN IF YOU'RE EMBARRASSED OR THINK YOU SHOULD KNOW THE ANSWER.

There are too many people on the internet trying to pretend they know it all. Let’s just be honest. Let’s just be real. No one is an expert on everything. Take this little tip for social media, babe. It’s better to ask questions than to pretend you have it all figured out. And also, it’s okay not to be an expert on something. People will appreciate you more for being honest.

The only difference between you and that guru you see online is time spent perfecting the craft. Don’t be intimidated, feel empowered to have questions. Your curiosity will get you so much farther in life.

#5 IF YOU HAVE AN IDEA, DON'T SIT ON IT - DO SOMETHING WITH IT!

Elizabeth Gilbert compares ideas and inspiration to these fleeting things that come to us. And if we ignore them and don’t act on them, they find someone new to inspire. If an idea is pulling at you, explore it. Listen to it. And maybe even act on it. Who knows where it will take you?

Every business was once an idea — your idea could be the next BIG thing that could help thousands of people. You owe it to yourself to try it!

#6 THERE ARE A LOT OF PEOPLE THAT DO WHAT YOU DO, BUT THEY AREN'T YOU.

I know it seems like every niche, market, and social media platform is saturated. But there is only one of you, babe. My best tip for social media (and life!) is to show up with your unique perspective. People will gravitate towards that.

#7 NOT EVERYTHING YOU SEE ON SOCIAL MEDIA IS REAL.

Say it with me, “Social media is a highlight reel.” 👏🏻 Just because someone seems like they have a perfect life, #couplegoals marriage, or a huge ass bank account - doesn’t mean it actually is that way. Stop comparing yourself to people’s best moments when there is more behind the scenes you don’t see.

I know, I know… it’s easier said than done. But this is a reminder to take a step back and give yourself a reality check when you feel that twinge of jealousy or that green monster hanging out on your shoulder.

#8 SAY "NO" MORE.

Enough said. You don’t need to take every opportunity or feel obligated to do anything that doesn’t fit into your schedule or match your goals. It’s okay to say no. Not everyone should have access to you, babe.

In fact, you don’t even have to have a reason behind saying no. “No.” is a full sentence.

#9 THERE'S A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TAKING A BREAK AND QUITTING.

This is something I wish I knew sooner, tbh. It’s okay to step away from business, social media, a friendship, or whatever isn’t bringing you peace at the moment. It doesn’t mean you gave up. Sometimes taking a break can actually help you recalibrate and come back with more energy and passion.

#10 LIFE IS SHORT - LIKE REALLY REALLY SHORT. 

Do what you want to do, cowgirl. Book that vacation. Start the business. Say no. Say yes! Be spontaneous. Make goals. Dream big. We only have so much time, so make the most of every moment. You’re not guaranteed any extra moment, so make each one count ❤️