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As another year comes to a close, it’s the perfect time to pause and reflect on the moments that shaped us. 2024 has been a year of growth, change, and valuable lessons. It brought opportunities to embrace new experiences. It also allowed us to navigate life in ways that felt different from years past. Big decisions defined the year. Small, everyday moments made it special. This year offered countless opportunities for learning and self-discovery.

In this post, I’m excited to share 24 lessons I’ve learned in 2024. They range from personal growth and career changes to the simple joys that kept me grounded. Each of these takeaways represents a chapter in a year that has been as challenging as it has been rewarding. So, grab a cup of coffee (or tea!) and join me as I look back on the moments, decisions, and insights that made 2024 unforgettable.

1. Moving Away Is Awesome

This past year was officially my first year away from home. After reflecting back on it, moving away was one of the best decisions I could have made at that time. Even though it is scary and intimidating, YOU CAN DO IT. Moving to a different state hundreds of miles away brings a lot of unknowns. However, it also leads to much growth and confidence. I am so proud to live in Jackson, Wyoming. I did it!

2. Girl Time IS Mandatory

We tend to go throughout our days with our same routine. Working, exercising, eating, etc. Sometimes we get so caught up in our own routine, we forget the importance of friendship and girl time. This past year, I was fortunate to be part of some of my best friends’ weddings. I also had the chance to go on their bachelorette trips. This was a beautiful reminder of girlhood and how spending time together and bonding is so important for the soul.

3. You CAN Teach An Old Dog New Tricks

Cheers to that! In 2024, I learned a lot of new tricks. One of those tricks being skiing, which is challenging for adults. It was so rewarding to accomplish a new skill in the town I now call home. Thanks to a sweet friend of mine, I learned all the important things to know. She patiently helped me become somewhat decent at mastering skiing. Meet ya on the slopes!

4. Know Your Worth

I cannot stress this one enough. Whether it is in a romantic setting or a friendship, knowing your worth will save you a lot of time. This is one thing I practiced a lot in 2024. Realizing when someone is using me, or when they are being genuine. I will continue to carry this practice on into the new year.

5. Improve Your Emotional Intelligence

THIS is important. Having strong emotional intelligence will help get you farther in relationships and in jobs. I am taking this practice with me into 2025. It was a great thing to work on in 2024.

6. Show UP For Those You Love

Whether it be a phone call or making plans, it is important to show up for those you love. Being present is so important. Even if you might be tired, take some time to check in on those you love. Be present with them even if your energy is low.

7. Face Your Fears

I do not really love heights, but in 2024, I challenged myself to rock climb. I found doing something out of my comfort zone to be so rewarding. I realized that I can do anything if I just put my mind to it. Rock climbing might not become my favorite hobby. However, it was still so fun to learn how to do.

8. Find Beauty In Every Single Day

Living in a beautiful place is something I am very thankful for. Every single day I like to reflect on something beautiful that happened, that I saw, etc. Sunsets and deep conversations can shift your mind. The alpen-glow on the mountains can also change your perspective. Even wildflowers blooming can have this effect.

9. Be Adaptable

I’ve always prided myself on being adaptable. I adapt by stepping into a new role. I learn something completely unfamiliar. I navigate unexpected changes. I enjoy the challenge of figuring things out as I go and finding ways to contribute no matter the situation. Being flexible has allowed me to grow. I build new skills and stay focused on delivering my best work. This happens even when things don’t go exactly as planned.

10. Surround Yourself With Good, Genuine People

You are an example of the people you surround yourself with. Don’t we all want good, genuine people in our lives? I am so thankful for great friends that in return, boost my mood and make me feel loved.

11. Your Parents Are Experiencing Life For The First Time Too

My parents came to visit me in Wyoming this summer. It was so fun to watch them experience the place I love. We hiked in Grand Teton National Park. We also went on a road trip through Yellowstone. I know it is a trip we all will remember forever. I cannot wait for them to visit again!

12. Have Patience & Grace

You never know what someone else is going through. The guy I am serving coffee to at 7am might not get out again that day. I could be his only interaction for the whole week. Have grace for everyone. Be kind to everyone. You never know who you might cross paths with. Be a light.

13. Sometimes You Have To Let Go Of What No Longer Serves You

Let that sh*t go!!! Holding on to things that no longer serve you is a form of self sabotage. Don’t waste time and energy with someone who doesn’t value you, don’t dwell on the past. The quicker you let things go, the more happy you will become!

14. I Am Stronger Than I Thought

This year tested me in ways I didn’t expect. From moving to a whole new state, to overcoming challenges that seemed impossible at first. Each obstacle taught me that resilience isn’t just about enduring but about growing through the struggle. Looking back, I’m proud of how I faced every moment with determination. I came out the other side more confident and capable than I imagined.

15. Don’t Take Things Too Seriously

I know that most people think Gen-Zers don’t take things serious at all. All I am saying is, life is short. Don’t get too “big mad” or worked up over the smallest of things. Why waste time arguing and being defensive? Just have fun and live your life!

16. When You Aren’t Looking, You Might Just Find “The One”

Oh, man… Even though it might sound cliche to say, this worked for me! I gave up dating and relationships in 2024. I wanted to feel comfortable with myself first. I needed to understand my own emotional needs and availability before worrying about anyone else. That is when I met my partner. I am so thankful everyday to have someone so understanding and kind in my life. I am grateful for someone who knows me better than I know myself. They check every single box I have always prayed for in a future partner. I am so thankful that 2024 brought me to you, Zac!

17. Make New Friends

In 2024, I was reminded that it’s never too late to make new friends. Meaningful connections can happen at any age. I formed friendships through shared experiences. Sometimes, these friendships began from unexpected encounters. Simply being open to new people also led to new friendships. These connections enriched my life in ways I didn’t anticipate. These relationships reminded me of the importance of surrounding yourself with supportive people. They should inspire and bring joy into your life. It’s crucial, no matter where you are in your journey. Friendship truly knows no age limits, and it’s a gift worth nurturing.

18. Italy Is Still My Favorite Place

Ciao, ciao. Italy is STILL my favorite place. Although it probably won’t happen financially, an annual trip to Italy fixes EVERYTHING. I adore Italy for many reasons. From pasta to wine, I cherish its culinary delights. From architecture to roaring waves on the Amalfi Coast, its beauty captivates me. Italy is my all-time favorite place in the world.

19. The World Is Your Oyster

In 2024, I traveled to six different countries. I always love to look back on what I learned about each country, but also about myself. I traveled solo in Vienna, Austria. Attending Oktoberfest with lifelong friends in Munich, Germany was unforgettable. Each moment was a new experience. These are memories I will look back on and cherish.

20. Challenge Yourself & Take Risks

I made it a point to challenge myself and take risks, even when stepping outside my comfort zone felt intimidating. I pursued new opportunities. I tried things I hadn’t done before. I pushed myself to learn and grow. Embracing the unknown led to some of my most rewarding experiences. Taking risks isn’t always easy, but it’s through those moments of uncertainty that we discover just how capable we are. This year, I learned that real growth happens when we dare to take chances. It occurs even when the outcome is uncertain.

21. Prioritize Your Health

I prioritized my health a lot in 2024. I went to the gym regularly. I counted my steps and paid more attention to what I ate. I made sure to fuel my body with healthy choices. I also found time to read, which helped keep my mind as sharp as my body. I made taking care of my physical and mental health a top priority. This change reminded me how essential it is to create balance in all aspects of life. The investment in my well-being this year has made me feel stronger, more focused, and more energized than ever before.

22. Save Money & Invest

Although I am not 100% best at this, towards the end of 2024, I started to work hard on it. My mom drilled into my hard head about the importance of this. I created a budget and tracked my spending. I also cut back on unnecessary expenses. This ensured I was saving consistently. I also took the step to educate myself about investing, learning the basics and starting small. It’s become clear that taking control of my finances now will give me more security and opportunities down the road.

23. Always Have Something To Look Forward To

My grandmother stresses this one to me often. And I agree with her! Having something to look forward to is important. Planning a trip gave me something to stay excited about. Setting personal goals did as well. Scheduling time with friends added to the excitement. It kept me motivated during challenging times and reminded me to appreciate the little joys in life. Having something to look forward to isn’t just about the big events. It’s about creating a sense of purpose. This excitement helps you keep moving forward, no matter what.

24. Trust Your Intuition

Your mama is “always right”, but so is your intuition! Learn how to listen to yourself and your body. Trust it when things seem off. This will save you a lot of issues. When you listen to that inner voice, it often guides you in the right direction. And, as always, our mother’s wisdom rings true—they always known what’s best for us! Whether it was a decision at work, in relationships, or in my personal life, I trusted my gut. This trust led me to the most fulfilling choices. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the answers we need are already within us. Our loved ones often see things more clearly than we do.

Reflecting on the year’s lessons helps us see our growth. It shows us how much change can happen in just twelve months. I made big decisions that altered the course of my path. Small moments also left a lasting impact. This year has been nothing short of transformative.

Looking back on these 24 lessons, I’m filled with gratitude for the challenges that taught me resilience. The victories reminded me of my strength. The experiences added meaning to my journey. As we step into a new year, I hope these reflections inspire you. Consider your own lessons from 2024. Think about how they’ll guide you moving forward.

Here’s to embracing everything the new year has in store! Thank you for reading and joining me on this journey.