I believe it’s valuable to reflect on the life and money lessons you’ve learned over the years. Looking back helps me recognize mistakes and celebrate good choices. Both kinds of experiences have taught me important lessons that shape who I am.
My birthday always sneaks up on me, but this year I decided it would be a great moment to review and share what I’ve learned. Two years ago I published a post titled “27 Money And Life Lessons I’ve Learned,” and last year I added one more to have a lesson for each year. Now I’m sharing 29 lessons—one for each year I’ve lived so far—and I plan to add another every year going forward.
Self-reflection matters because the past can teach us a lot, both from our successes and our mistakes. I’m far from perfect, but I’m grateful: I have wonderful friends and family, a happy marriage, dogs I adore, a business I love, and the freedom to travel. Those things make me very fortunate.
In honor of my birthday, here are 29 life and money lessons I’ve learned so far. Some may seem obvious, others less so, but each has contributed to who I am. I hope something resonates with you or sparks a new idea.
1. Value your time.
Years used to feel long, but now they fly by. Time is one of your most valuable resources. If you’re spending it on things you dislike, work to remove negativity and focus on what brings you joy. Don’t wait decades to start living a life you love.
2. Never compare your beginning to someone else’s middle.
Comparing yourself to others can motivate, but it can also discourage. Remember that everyone starts somewhere—just because someone is further along doesn’t invalidate your progress. Be patient; skill and success take time.
3. Create a plan to reach your dreams and goals.
Dreams rarely happen by accident. Decide what you want and make a realistic plan to get there. Without action, dreams can remain regrets. You only live once—take concrete steps toward what matters to you.
4. Be positive.
Positive thinking really does change outcomes. Laugh more, smile, stop comparing, and complain less. A positive outlook can help you find solutions, regain motivation, move on from mistakes, and pursue your goals with more confidence.
5. Learn something new as often as you can.
I used to dislike learning, but now I love it. There’s endless opportunity to grow—books, courses, articles, and conversations. Lifelong learning keeps your mind active and opens doors you didn’t know existed.
6. Stop living in regret.
You can’t change the past. Learn from mistakes, then move forward. Lingering regret only steals present possibilities.
7. Don’t care what others think.
It took me a while to accept this, but it’s freeing. Make decisions for yourself and stop letting others’ opinions dictate your life. Do what’s right for you.
8. Live life to the fullest.
No matter your circumstances, you can choose to live fully. Time is precious and uncertain—don’t postpone meaningful experiences indefinitely. You can enjoy life even on a modest budget.
9. Cherish moments with loved ones.
Since becoming full-time RVers we see friends and family less often, which has taught me to treasure every visit. Don’t take loved ones for granted; moments with them are invaluable.
10. Make time for fun.
All work and no play makes life dull. Schedule time each week for activities you enjoy—fun restores energy and motivation.
11. Excuses are just that—excuses.
We all face obstacles, but excuses keep you stuck. Take responsibility, take action, and find ways to overcome challenges instead of using them as reasons not to try.
12. Do what YOU want to do.
Follow what excites and motivates you. Whether it’s adventure, family, a new career, or changing the world—pursue what aligns with your values and passions.
13. Less is more.
After downsizing to live in an RV, I learned how liberating less clutter can be. Fewer possessions mean less stress, more focus on what matters, and less spending on things that don’t bring joy.
14. Laughter is the best medicine.
When you’re down, find reasons to laugh. Humor and happiness lift mood and improve resilience.
15. Help others as much as you can.
Small acts of kindness can change days and lives. Smile at strangers, donate items, give blood, encourage someone, foster an animal, mentor, or volunteer. Helping others enriches your life as well as theirs.
16. Sometimes you just have to go for it.
Stop wondering “what if” and take the leap. You’ll never know your potential until you try.
17. Dogs are awesome.
Pets bring unconditional love, companionship, and joy. They’re a wonderful part of life.
18. Gain control of your financial situation.
Money isn’t everything, but financial control reduces stress and expands choices. Pay down debt, spend less than you earn, stop trying to keep up with others, and save for the future. Financial stability helps you pursue your goals.
19. You can say no.
You don’t have to accept every request. Saying yes to everything leads to burnout and being taken advantage of. Evaluate commitments and protect your time and energy.
20. Gossip stinks.
Talking about others in negative ways wastes energy and harms relationships. Avoid gossip and focus on more constructive conversations.
21. Don’t let life pass you by.
People often delay happiness for a future that may never come. Pursue goals, but don’t neglect the present—find moments of joy and meaning now.
22. See the beauty in everything.
There are beautiful things all around us. Train your eye to notice the good instead of fixating on the negative.
23. Kill them with kindness.
Responding to negativity with kindness diffuses conflict and often changes the dynamic. It works more often than not.
24. Be open to new things and face your fears.
How long has it been since you tried something new? Comfort zones feel safe, but growth happens when you challenge yourself. New experiences can transform your perspective.
25. Balance is important.
You can’t do everything all the time. Balance is necessary for sanity, productivity, and long-term wellbeing.
26. Be confident.
Confidence helps you pursue opportunities and persist through setbacks. If you don’t believe in yourself, it’s harder for others to believe in you.
27. Money is just money.
Many let money dominate life in ways that don’t add happiness. Money is a tool to support your goals and values—not a measure of your worth. Use it wisely to build the life you want.
28. Traveling full-time is amazing.
Living on the road has been life-changing for me. Spending time in different landscapes, hiking regularly, meeting new people, and exploring new places has made life richer. If the lifestyle appeals to you, consider giving it a try.
29. It’s okay to be afraid.
Fear is normal when you step into new territory. You won’t know the outcome unless you try. Growth and meaningful change often require doing things that scare you. I’ve felt fear about sailing and even about RVing at first, but pushing through those fears opened new possibilities. Don’t let fear become an excuse to avoid what could enrich your life.
What life and money lessons do you think are important?