Turning 30? Here Are Some Books, Advice, and More

No “30 Things To Do Before You Turn 30” here

I turned 30 years old yesterday. I am a beginner in the world of thirty-somethings, just as much as anyone else reading this article. But, if being 29 taught me anything, the lead-up to 30 is full of questions.

A short list of questions I asked myself in the last year included:

• Am I ready to turn 30? (It’s going to happen anyway!)
• Why do I want to do all these *gestures at list* things before I turn 30? (Because society tells me I’m too old for fun after 30.)
• Life keeps going after I turn 30, right? (IDK DUDE.)
• Who can I ask any and all of these questions to? (Is everyone as confused as I am?)

In an attempt to answer some of these questions with more than just my internal dialogue, I did what I’ve been doing since I could read; I picked up a book.

I outline 5 books that helped me prep for 30 in my latest podcast episode (Happy To Be Here), Atomic Habits was at the top of my list. It was an actionable read that made it easier to kick habits that no longer served me and pick up new ones that made sense for this season of my life.

In addition to reading those books, I also turned to my own IG community. I asked, “What would you say to someone just turning 30?”

Here are a few examples of what they said:

“INVEST! In your retirement fund, your skincare routine, your mattress, and your shoes!”

“Don’t waste time doing things because you think you have to.” — CP

“Don’t compare your journey to anyone else’s.” — AKSO

“Investing in yourself is the best thing you can do. EX: paying for therapy.” CMS

“Don’t rush what you want to last.” — RB

“If your 20s were for dreaming, your 30s are for making those dreams come true.” — LG

“If you get all the same color hangers your closet will always look organized.” — MB

It seems like the call to action in anyone’s thirties is the same — keep the simple things simple and your journey yours. I liked the theme, and it felt aligned with what I wanted, particularly after reflecting on my twenties. I loved my twenties, but where the first half was chaotic and an uncovering, the second half was peaceful and establishing. I want to keep building on that second half for more and the same.

I write about creativity, mental health, grief, and how to cope with life’s everyday challenges on VivNunez.com. Listen to my weekly podcast, Happy To Be Here.

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