29 Things I've Learned in 29 Years

I wrote this days leading up to my birthday. I contemplated writing this here for 2 weeks. I wanted to share them in case they resonated with someone else. These insights came from experiences, mentors, and those quiet moments when life teaches you something important. So here goes nothing.

Author

Amanjot Saral
June 17, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 3 minutes

On Personal Growth, Relationships, Perspective & Living Fully

  1. Keep movement/sports in your life – you’re happier when you move your body and have an athletic outlet.

  2. Don’t chase roles or titles just to fit in; authenticity beats an underdog narrative.

  3. Trust your gut – your intuition usually knows before your mind catches up.

  4. Be kinder to yourself.

  5. Practice gratitude & calmness – everyone told you this one and holy sh*t does it work. It’s magical

  6. Love openly, be optimistic. The energy you put out in the world comes back in the craziest ways.

  7. Give back to younger people in your life. Whether that’s spending time with them, checking in, giving advice - even if they don’t ask your words of encouragement can mean a lot.

  8. Your sister is your biggest cheerleader, love her unconditionally.

  9. Your mom is a superhero with everything on her plate. Do more to help and empower her.

  10. Compound interest - in all parts of life.

  11. “Believe people when they tell you who they are.” – Oprah

  12. Friendship is like leaves, the branches or the tree trunk. Cherish them. ❤️ 

  13. Be a darkest hour friend, have a darkest hour friend.

  14. Treat friendship like you did on the playground even as an adult.

  15. Break away from comfort. Do whatever it takes to keep the kid curiosity alive.

  16. Journal – it’ll change your life. Another one those around you told you.

  17. Be grateful it happened and that you felt.

  18. Lean into yourself.

  19. Your boxing coach will teach you so much, tell people like him you appreciate their time.

  20. Keep in touch with your mentors.

  21. Send Thank-You cards at the end of the year.

  22. Expectation will steal from your happiness. Give and don’t expect.

  23. Be present with your friends and family.

  24. God gave you 2 ears and 1 mouth for a reason.

  25. If a door is closing, let it. Something better is on its way.

  26. Sweetness and kindness isn’t a weakness.

  27. Your dad is tough on you, he wants the best for you.

  28. Go inwards when there’s chaos.

  29. Pick your battles, you can win the battle but you could ultimately lose the war.