Twenty Four Things I Learned Being 24

Well, I'm officially in the Over 25's Category

I've made it to the midway point of the weird and wonderful era known as 'your twenties' and to be honest, the fact that I now belong in the Over 25's category on X Factor slightly bothers me. Why did I class myself as old? More importantly why did no one ever want to mentor this category!? We're great! 

If you would've asked 15 year old Meg what she'd have done by 25, I don't think she'd have expected to be where I'm at right now. I probably thought I'd be married, have a house, maybe kids but it's crazy how life works out and those things you classed as important aren't at the top of your priority list anymore. It's all about accepting where you're at and putting your own happiness first.

If you've found my little place on the internet, then welcome to the yearly tradition where I tell you all about the weird and wonderful things I've learned in the past year. Twenty four has been a lovely year; it's been the year of focusing on myself and finally passing my driving test. 

I've been doing these posts since I was 17 and I absolutely love looking back at the life lessons I've learned along the way; seeing not only how my perspective has changed but also how I've grown as a person. 

So without further ado, here are 24 things I learned in my twenty fourth year!

1) Don't Let Other Peoples Opinions Affect you too much

During one of my journalling sessions last year, I realised that I value other peoples opinions waaay too much, whether that be about what I'm doing, what I'm wearing or how I look. I somehow seek this approval from certain people when in reality, my happiness should come first.

2) It's Okay Not to Reply Straight Away

I've always been someone who replies to text messages in 0.25 seconds through fear of people thinking I'm being rude or ignoring them. Truth is, life has gotten real busy again, I don't have the time to reply so quickly anymore and that's okay; it doesn't make me a bad person. You need to take time out for yourself and be present.

3) Doing Things On Your Own Isn't Embarrassing

Being comfortable and happy in your own company is so important. This year I went to the theatre on my own and although it was nerve wracking, I absolutely loved it. At first I thought people would be looking at me thinking 'it's a bit weird she's come on her own' but they were so immersed in their own bubble that no one batted an eyelid. I've been to see Jersey Boys and Waitress and both were amazing. Don't wait for other people to do things with you, go and do that thing yourself and enjoy spending time with YOU!

4) Passing your Driving Test is one of the Best Feelings Ever

When I started learning to drive people told me that the day I passed my test would be one of the proudest moments of my life and I can fully confirm that's the truth. I'll never forget the day I got that pink license, although no one ever prepares you for how weird that first drive on your own feels. 

5) Your Car Tells you What Side Your Petrol Is On

Whilst we're on the topic of cars, did you know that if you look at the petrol sign on your dashboard there's a little arrow that tells you what side you fill your petrol on? I'm probably really late to the party with this knowledge but I'm so amused! 

6) It's Okay to Rewear Outfits

Does anyone else just have this fear that if they rewear the same outfit too many times people are going to think they've got nothing else to wear? I'm really trying to ignore this feeling. I don't need to buy a new outfit every time I go out, I've got plenty of cute clothes in my wardrobe to be reworn and no one is judging me! 

7) I Don't Have to Share My Life on Social Media

If you follow me on my socials you may have noticed that I don't post as much as I used to, whether that be on the grid or on stories. I'm learning that I don't need to document everything I do, it's all about being present in the moment without thinking I've got to get a photo to prove I'm out for tea. What am I trying to prove anyway? I must admit, my life feels a lot more peaceful when I take social media breaks.

8) A Smile Costs Nothing

It could literally brighten someones day. 

9) Olaplex is a Haircare Game Changer

It's true what they say, once you start using Olaplex you'll never go back. It makes my hair feel so healthy, shiny and soft; I'm obsessed! 

10) It's Hard to Make New Friends In Your Twenties

Why does no one ever talk about how lonely your twenties can be? Your friendship circle becomes smaller and smaller as you slowly realise who's worth your time and energy, and although this is good for you, it can feel incredibly isolating. It seems everyone is so busy with their own lives, your friends start moving away, and you just crave those days when you had less responsibilities and could meet up for a coffee after Uni without having to compare a six month schedule. 

11) F&F At Tesco Is Very Underrated

Incredibly underrated!

Why do we all just ignore the fact that F&F at Tesco has some gorgeous clothes!? Very rarely can I go into Tesco without coming out with a cute jumper or dress; I only nipped in for a meal deal! 

12) Other People's Success Doesn't Make You a Failure

It's very easy to sit and compare yourself to others but success comes in different forms. Just because someone seems to be living their most successful life doesn't mean that you aren't succeeding too. The thing is, success means something different to everyone and guarantee there's someone looking at you thinking the exact same thing. GIVE YOURSELF MORE CREDIT!

13) Go for Massages Regularly

I can't even begin to tell you how much I love going for a hot stone massage done, it is ultimate relaxation and it helps with period pain too! It's so important to take some time out for yourself and just chill. 

14) Six The Musical Is Incredible

Mum and I went to watch SIX for the first time last year and it's very safe to say that we are obsessed!
It's the most feel-good show with the most amazing soundtrack, and if at least one of the songs isn't stuck in your head when you leave the theatre then you're lying! 

15) I Can't Function Without My Morning Coffee

I was never a morning coffee drinker, always a Yorkshire tea kind of girl, but now I can't function if I don't have a coffee every morning. How did I ever cope before!?

16) I Avoid Parallel Parking At All Costs

If you're one of those people who confidently reverses into a parking space then I envy you. Unless it involves driving straight through into a space then it's a no from me. Parallel parking? No chance. I'll drive round until a space becomes available. 

17) It's Okay to Have High Standards

If someone isn't treating you the way that you deserve to be treated then tell them, don't lower your standards or settle for anything less than you deserve; both in relationships and friendships. 

18) Don't Doubt Yourself

You're braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think! 

19) You Never Know What People Are Going Through

So be kind, always!

20) The Sky Garden is Beautiful

I love visiting London, especially when I get to spend time with one of my best friends Liv. Last time I stayed with her, we went to The Sky Garden and I'm still not over how gorgeous the views of London are! I'd highly recommend visiting if you're planning a trip to the Capital soon!

21) Motorways Are Weird

Yes they freak me out and I have absolutely no idea how people know which lane to be in when you're coming off, BUT I am building my confidence on them and I'm very proud of myself. 

22) Don't Be A People Pleaser

A few months ago someone told me that they could tell I was a 'people pleaser' and if I'm being honest, they're completely right. Although some will say it's a good trait to have, it can often result in your kindness being taken for granted. It's important to remember that it's okay to say no and set your own boundaries. 

23) Embrace Your Natural Beauty

This is something I'm still working on and will continue to learn. I've realised that a lot of the beauty standards thrust upon us are all a filter of how society thinks we should look. Instead I'm learning to embrace and love everything about myself, from my dimples to my acne scars, completely unfiltered. 

24) The Gym is an Act of Self Care

If you feel that going to the gym is becoming a chore, remind yourself that it's actually an act of self-care. It's boosting your endorphins and keeping you fit and healthy. The more you treat going to the gym as an act of self-care, the more motivation you'll have (and the more you'll enjoy it!)

I can't wait to celebrate with my family and friends tomorrow.

Let's make Chapter 25 a great one; Here's to 25!

Lots of Love,

Meg x