Jessica Belmosto

This was absolutely inspired by Taylor Swift’s 30 Things I Learned Before 30 article. I feel as if I could burst at the seams with the life experience I have. That’s not an intentional brag. I have been fortunate enough to see the world outside of town but I’ve also seen the darkness inside the four walls of my own home. Take what you want and leave the rest.

1. Advocate for yourself

This was something I learned early on. I had to talk to doctors, therapists, teachers, and every other professional out there to share my story. If they didn’t understand it, I had to explain it to them in a way that made more sense.

If it weren’t for this skill, I don’t think I’d be who I am. I’m someone who believes in pushing for what I believe in and will do whatever it takes to be heard and make sure change is made.

2. Take all the pictures

Someday that’s all you’ll have left of places and people.

3. Spend your money how you please

I spent just about every weekend during the summer of 2015 at a concert. Did I live paycheck to paycheck? Yes. Did I make unforgettable memories with my favorite people? Yes. Don’t let someone else try to stop you from having fun.

4. Spontaneity is your best friend

The one thing I miss about life before COVID is the spontaneous decisions I made, whether it be a concert or a sporting event.

5. Be your own best friend

You have to be comfortable with yourself. If silence and being alone makes you uncomfortable, there’s a lot of work to be done.

6. You are not a doormat

It took me a while to believe this one. I had finally had enough. People are just cruel and awful. You don’t deserve to be someone’s punching bag.

7. Quit that job

Your mental well-being is so much more important than a job.

8. You are worth more than a last call text

For the longest time I thought it’d change and someday he’d ask me to dinner or to make it official. I’m glad it never worked out.

9. Stop ignoring red flags

I am begging you.

10. It’s okay to walk away

It’s hard and can take a few tries but it’s worth it.

11, Taking care of yourself should be a priority

Don’t be like me and end up in the emergency room with a blood infection because I let my strep throat go untreated.

12. The company will not crumble if you call out.

Calling out is scary to me. Hence why I ended up in the hospital with untreated strep. If you need to call out for any reason, do it. That billion dollar corporation isn’t going to fall apart because you didn’t show up for your four hour shift,

13. Take pictures with your family

No matter how you make look or feel, please take the picture with them. Someday you’ll look back and be glad you did it.

14. Have your paperwork organized and ready to go

It sounds so morbid but have a will ready and notarized. If you have certain wishes, write them down and keep them somewhere where your family can find them.

15. Have a healthcare proxy

I want everyone to have this form filled out, printed, and signed. You never know when an accident could happen. God forbid something happens it will make your family’s lives so much easier.

16. Not everything you do has to be monetized

Have fun with your hobbies.

17. Disconnecting for a day won’t kill your brand

I promise.

18. Take a vacation

Once it’s safe to travel again, I’ll be on a plane to Nashville. Some of my favorite memories were made in that city. Everyone should have a city that they’re in love with.

19. Stop standing in your own way

Sometimes we are our own worst enemies. You have to stop and ask for help. It’s going to be okay. Your ego might be a little bruised but I promise, it’s worth it.

20. Hold onto your pets a little longer

I lost my Lilly girl at the start of 2020. My 24th birthday was actually spent with her at the vet and it was soon after we had to put her down. If there’s one thing I miss it’s coming home and giving her kisses. I miss her laying on my bed and crushing my legs. Take all the pictures and go on all the walks.

21. Embrace unexpected friendships

This is one of the best lessons I’ve learned! Go with the flow and let it happen. You never know how important these friendships may become.

22. Go on that date

Unless you’re getting really weird vibes from them, what’s stopping you? I get it. You’re nervous and uncertain. What’s the harm in getting one coffee together? I never expected going out on that date would lead me to my soulmate.

23. Putting yourself first is not a crime

If you’re like me, you burn yourself out rather quickly. I have to have a million things on my plate at once, otherwise I’m not stimulated. I love being able to tackle projects and make deadlines. However, it gets to a point where I’m unable to function. I don’t want to tell anyone no but I also can’t make myself do anything else.

Run yourself a bath and relax for a day. One day of missed game coverage is okay. One day of sleeping late is okay. I wish more people embraced self care and boundaries.

24. Text your friends

Ask how they’re doing or share something that reminded you of them. It’s important to me to keep an open line of communication. Friendships are more like family to me these days so I cherish and love them to pieces.

25. Love yourself

It takes time and is certainly not an overnight fix. Embrace what makes you, you. Love yourself enough to walk away from unhealthy relationships, work environments, and anything else that’s holding you back. Also know that you deserve the positive things in your life as well. You are more than deserving of these great things coming your way.

There’s a lot more I could’ve included but that would certainly defeat the purpose of this blog. I hope you’re all hanging in there and can walk away with a sliver of hope.