Here are 29 things I've learned as a 29-year-old:

1. Mental illness does not define who you are. You are more than your mental illness, and it does not make you a weak person just because some others "see" you as this person who is dealing with depression or anxiety.

2. Being in the present moment is the key to living. It doesn't help to worry about the past or the future. Moments of unhappiness and loneliness increase as a result of overthinking. Embrace each day to the fullest.

3. Celebrate every accomplishment. This can include both modest and large ambitions. "Celebrate even the slightest goals because they are magnificent landmark moments!" my therapist constantly said.

4. People will reveal their true colors to you. This will be shocking or the most revealing thing ever, especially if you are like me and care deeply about your friends and family. It's eye-opening to see people's true colors, and it may hurt like a ton of bricks.

5. Don't be frightened to take chances! You want to create your own store, a blog or podcast, become a content provider, learn a new language, and so on. Please carry it out! You can do so many incredible things. The only one standing in your way is you! Don't let anyone or your inner critic keep you from achieving your goals.

6. Take a long, deep breath. Make an effort not to judge or compare yourself to others. You are special because you are the only one who is YOU.

7. Mistakes and failures will happen. Try your best to not be so hard on yourself. Take some time to learn from your mistakes and take this as an opportunity to grow.

8. Set your boundaries! This universe will put you to the test, and knowing your limits will benefit you in the long term.

9. Try not to take anything so seriously. This is a difficult one for me. Because I was raised to take care of my family and younger siblings as the oldest in the family. I didn't have much of a childhood, but I'm hoping that in my thirties, I'll learn to relax and have more fun.

10. Try not to be afraid if you suffer from anxiety. Those frightening or worrying thoughts are NOT TRUE. You will triumph over these emotions.

11. Learn to appreciate every aspect of yourself. Everything about you is lovely. Even on your darkest day, learning to love yourself can help you heal on your mental health journey.

12. Do not be scared to ask hard questions.

13. Be open-minded and eager to learn.

14. Read books, and rewatch old TV shows and movies. Do things that make you happy and smile.

15. Always believe that something wonderful is about to happen.

16. Learn to be conscious of your emotions and feelings. These will assist you in learning to identify your triggers and what may suggest when your boundaries have been crossed.

17. Make amends to yourself, your friends, or your family. Make it a point to do it for yourself or because you want to. You have good cause to exclude certain people from your life. Try not to feel guilty about doing what is best for you.

18. You are not selfish for choosing YOU!

19. Understand how to budget and save money. Even if it is only a few cents or a couple of dollars.

20. Speak the truth, even if it is painful. For me, this means being honest with oneself and not being scared to advocate for yourself.

21. Challenge your perception of your beliefs. It does not imply that you must abandon everything you have thought about your entire life, but rather that you must consider all perspectives and make a decision on your own terms.

22. Life can be challenging, but that doesn't mean you have to suffer in silence.

23. If you don't like the person you're becoming, it's not too late to alter your mind.

24. Change is scary, but so necessary for growth.

25. Teach yourself to disregard what others think or say about you. You have no influence over that, and you should not give AF their thoughts.

26. Slow down. There is no rush into doing things. If you continue to give everyone your energy and time, you will be burnout in the next months or so.

27. Take the day off work. Take some time for yourself. You are important. Prioritize yourself.

28. I realize how frightening and upsetting it can be to be having bodily symptoms of any kind. These emotions will pass, and you will be alright. You'll get through it. Never give up.

29. Becoming older and wiser isn't a burden or scary. It is the next step in your life chapter. Over the years, you have acquired a wealth of knowledge, and now is the time to soar. Celebrate your birthday or milestones however you want. Your moment to shine has come!