I believe it’s valuable to reflect on the life and money lessons we’ve learned. Looking back helps highlight mistakes so we can avoid repeating them, and it also reminds us of the wise choices that shaped our path. Both successes and failures have taught me meaningful lessons.
Although I usually let my birthday pass quietly, this year I decided it was the perfect time to review and share what I’ve learned. Last year I published a similar piece—27 Money And Life Lessons I’ve Learned—one for each year. Now, with another year behind me, I’ve added one more lesson and plan to do the same each year going forward.
Self-reflection is powerful. It helps us learn from the past—both the good and the bad. I’m not perfect, but I’m fortunate: I have close friends, a loving family, a happy marriage, wonderful dogs, a business I enjoy, and a life that includes travel. Below are 28 life and money lessons I’ve learned by age 28. Some may sound obvious, others less so, but each one has helped shape who I am. I hope some of these resonate with you.
1. Value your time.
When I was younger, a year felt endless; now they pass quickly. Time is one of our most precious resources, so don’t spend it on things you dislike. If an aspect of your life is draining you, create a plan to change it. Don’t wait decades to pursue a life you love.
2. Never compare your beginning to someone else’s middle.
Comparisons can motivate, but they can also lead to discouragement if you measure yourself against others who’ve had more time to practice. Give yourself room to grow—every achievement takes time and effort.
3. Create a plan to reach your dreams and goals.
Dreams don’t happen by accident. Identify what you want—whether it’s a career, travel, or a lifestyle change—and map out steps to get there. A clear plan reduces regret and increases the odds you’ll actually reach your goals.
4. Be positive.
Positive thinking can change your life. Laugh more, smile, stop dwelling on jealousy, and complain less. A positive outlook helps you find alternatives, stay motivated, move past mistakes, and take action toward your goals—which often leads to greater happiness.
5. Learn something new as often as you can.
I used to resist learning, but a conversation with an older classmate opened my eyes to the joy of lifelong learning. Now I read and explore constantly. There are countless resources—books, articles, online courses—so take advantage and keep expanding your knowledge.
6. Stop living in regret.
You can’t change the past. Learn from mistakes, then let them go. Regret only wastes time you could spend building a better future.
7. Don’t care about what anyone else thinks.
This took time for me to accept, but it’s freeing: live for yourself, not to satisfy others’ expectations. Make choices that suit your values and goals.
8. Live life to the fullest.
No matter who you are or what your bank balance looks like, you can choose to live fully. Life is short and unpredictable—take advantage of the present and pursue meaning now rather than postponing it indefinitely.
9. Cherish moments with loved ones.
Now that we travel full-time, visits with family and friends are rarer and therefore more precious. Don’t take moments with loved ones for granted—make memories while you can.
10. Make time for fun.
All work and no play drains you. Schedule time for hobbies and activities you enjoy; it boosts mood, creativity, and motivation.
11. Excuses are just that—excuses.
People often explain why things aren’t happening. Sometimes situations are genuinely difficult, but many obstacles can be overcome with action. Avoid letting excuses define your limits.
12. Do what YOU want to do.
Follow what makes you excited and fulfilled—as long as it’s legal and ethical. If you want adventure, start planning it. If you want a family, begin preparing. If you want a career change, take steps toward it.
13. Less is more.
Moving into an RV taught me how much unnecessary stuff we accumulate. Minimalism reduces clutter, focuses attention on what matters, and often saves money.
14. Laughter is the best form of medicine.
Laughter can lift spirits and ease tension. When you feel low, seek reasons to laugh—it helps.
15. Help others as much as you can.
Small acts of kindness can change someone’s day. Smile at strangers, donate items, give blood, encourage someone, foster an animal, become a mentor, or volunteer—any helpful act matters.
16. Sometimes you just have to go for it.
If you spend your life asking “what if?” you’ll miss opportunities. Take calculated risks and try things—you won’t know unless you try.
17. Dogs are awesome.
They bring joy, companionship, and often a welcome dose of perspective.
18. Gain control of your financial situation.
Money isn’t everything, but financial stability reduces stress and expands choices. Pay down debt, live within your means, save for retirement, and avoid keeping up with others. Financial control helps you pursue dreams like travel or career changes.
19. You can say no.
You don’t have to accept every request. Saying yes too often can lead to burnout and resentment. Evaluate your priorities and decline when necessary.
20. Gossip stinks.
Talking about others rarely helps and usually wastes energy. Focus on constructive conversations instead.
21. Don’t let life pass you by.
It’s easy to defer happiness for a future milestone. Balance goal-setting with enjoying the present so life doesn’t slip away while you wait for “someday.”
22. See the beauty in everything.
There is beauty all around—choose to notice it. A positive perspective makes daily life richer.
23. Kill them with kindness.
Responding to negativity with kindness defuses conflict and often changes outcomes. I’ve found it works far more often than not.
24. Be open to new things and tackle your fears.
Stepping outside your comfort zone can be intimidating, but it also brings growth and new perspectives. Try small challenges or daily experiments to expand your limits.
25. Balance is important.
You can’t sustain maximum effort in every area all the time. Prioritize rest and balance to maintain well-being and productivity.
26. Be confident.
Self-belief helps you take action. If you don’t trust your abilities, it’s hard to expect others to.
27. Money is just money.
It’s necessary for living, but it shouldn’t define your worth. Use money as a tool to support the life you want, not as a measure of character or happiness.
28. Traveling full-time is amazing.
Full-time travel has been life-changing for me. It allows me to live by beaches, mountains, and deserts; spend more time outdoors; meet new people; and try new activities. It’s not for everyone, but giving this alternative lifestyle a chance has been incredibly rewarding.
What life and money lessons do you think are most important?