You might fear turning 30 because some people categorize it as “old. ” However, with medical progress and longer life expectancy, thirty is no longer middle age. [2] X Research source You might fear turning thirty because it makes you feel like you should accept more responsibility, act like an adult, or because you haven’t achieved everything you thought you would by this age. [3] X Research source Consider writing out your aging fears to help you realize that they’re not rational and accept your milestone.
Many others people in your life, including your parents and probably some of your friends, have turned 30 and survived. Know you will live through turning 30 and will probably enjoy the decade more than you did your 20s. [5] X Research source Take on the attitude that “30 is the new 20. ” This behavioral tactic of framing the milestone to minimize its gravity may help you accept it more readily. [6] X Research source
Try doing gentle forms of yoga, such as restorative and yin yoga. These forms are specifically practiced to help stretch out and repair muscles and relax the body. [7] X Research source There are many different health benefits to meditation such as lower blood pressure, decreased anxiety and depression, less stress, and greater feelings of relaxation and general well-being. [8] X Research source Meditation can also help liberate your mind and allow you to let go of the attachment to things you can’t control. [9] X Research source Talk to your doctor before you begin any yoga practice to make sure you’re healthy enough to practice. [10] X Research source
Take some time and really think about what you feel turning 30 is “supposed” to look like. Ask yourself where you got those ideas about what you should have accomplished. Then, ask yourself whether you’re okay with where you actually are. If not, think about what steps you can take to get to where you think you need to be. [11] X Expert Source Alexandra JanelliCertified Hypnotherapist & Anxiety and Stress Management Coach Expert Interview. 27 August 2020. If you take care of yourself by exercising, eating healthy, getting plenty of rest, and avoiding stress, your body may be much healthier than that of someone younger than you. [12] X Research source Societal pressures in the media often make aging look like a process of aches, feebleness, and inactivity. By keeping in mind Mark Twain’s statement, “age is an issue of mind over matter,” you may be able to not focus on the number of your age but how much you can do and how great you feel. [13] X Research source
You can consider most major milestones in your twenties as accomplishments. For example, maybe you finished your education or started a family. You can use these accomplishments as starting points for goals during your thirties.
Accept that nothing is perfect. Imperfection adds character and letting go of any expectations of perfection will help you focus on the positive changes in your life. [16] X Research source
Don’t let societal conceptions of age or aging discourage you. With so much focus on celebrities who seemingly don’t age—mostly with the help of cosmetic procedures– it’s hard to accept aging. [17] X Research source
Confidence comes from many sources, including knowing that you have a good education and training, good relationships, or even that you look good. For example, if you feel that you took great care of your skin in your 20s, be confidence in the fact that you probably don’t have many wrinkles. You can also be confident if you finished your education or started a good job, or even had healthy children. It’s important to know that even if you are confident and successful, that failure is a part of the equation. [20] X Research source Embrace the fact that most people in their thirties feel much more confident and comfortable in themselves, which can help you enjoy yourself and relax.
Set goals for every aspect of your life: personal, professional, and otherwise. For example, you might want to start a family in your thirties or finally get your PhD. Give yourself short- and long-term goals to achieve and reassess them every year. Make plans to experience as much of life as you can through travel, education, or even just engaging with your community. Getting involved can help you forget your milestone and help you realize that your thirties are much more fulfilling than your twenties.
You don’t necessarily have to make big purchases to enjoy any financial independence you’ve achieved. Even being able to go to a nice restaurant is a way to enjoy having more money than you did when you were in your twenties.
You can try artistic activities such as painting, dancing, or making music; do a new sport or even just take part in a pick up game; or engage in hobbies like photography or a book club. Be open-minded to new trying activities even if they don’t seem appealing at first.
Consider volunteering at a local hospital or soup kitchen. Realizing that you are healthy and have the means to support yourself can help you further embrace your thirties.
Travel will show you that the world, even if it’s a nearby town, is multi-faceted and can add new sides to you, too. As you get older and wiser, you’re more able to recognize and appreciate the diversity around you as well as your role in the world. Make sure to get off the beaten path when you travel. Hidden gems may surprise and enrich your experiences. Being more confident in yourself during your thirties can allow you to take these kinds of travel opportunities.
Eat healthy meals that meet all of your nutritional needs to maintain your health and well-being. For example, you need to make sure you’re getting enough protein, vitamins, and fiber through foods such as lean meats or nuts, and fruits and vegetables. Make sure to allot time for physical activity, such as walking or jogging, for at least thirty minutes a day. You’ll also want to make sure to include time for rest and relaxation, such as reading a book. These will help underscore your healthy eating habits and contribute to your overall well-being. For example, a 3 mile (4. 8 km) run will give you time to work out personal or professional problems if you need to while providing your body with needed exercise to maintain your health. [23] X Research source In a world where you are easily contacted by cell phones, email, and social media, having unplugged alone time is vital to maintaining your health by minimizing how much input you need to process on a daily basis. [24] X Research source For example, you can turn off all electronics at 10pm so that you have an hour or two all to yourself or with your family.
Make a list of everything for which you’re grateful. In situations where you feel negative, read the list of things for which you’re grateful. This will remind you to stay positive.
