I recently turned 33: Here are 3 Lessons I’ve Learned This Past Year

As I look back on the past year, I’m filled with gratitude and reflection. Year 32  brought its own set of challenges and insights, and I want to share important lessons I’ve learned that I believe will resonate with many of you, as busy moms navigating everything life throws your way. Want to hear the 3 lessons I’ve learned this past year, then keep reading.

1. Motivation Will Run Out—So Discipline Yourself

I know it’s a cliché, but hear me out. Back in March, I decided to hit the gym. At first, I was only half-committed—let’s just say my money was getting fitter than I was! But as time passed, I became more consistent. I started to see results: better sleep, more energy, and even a noticeable reduction in my mommy pouch. These changes motivated me to keep going.

But then something shifted. I got used to the changes, and the excitement faded. I found myself dragging my feet to the gym, no longer eager to get those workouts in. It felt like something was wrong.

Then, during a particularly tough workout session, I had a moment of clarity. The Holy Spirit made me realize that my motivation had run out, but my discipline was what kept me going. The problem? I wasn’t applying this same principle to other areas of my life. When motivation faded, I’d quit, thinking something was wrong. But that’s precisely when discipline should take over. I felt dragged, but it was needed.

As busy moms, we know how easy it is to let things slide when we’re tired, overwhelmed, or just not feeling it. But we need to remind ourselves to:

• Keep the promises we make to ourselves, even when it’s hard.
• Do what we said we would, even when we don’t feel like it.
• Remember, the absence of excitement or positive feelings doesn’t mean it’s time to quit—it means it’s time to dig deep and let discipline guide us.

 2. Focus on What You Can Control

Let’s face it: life, especially as a mom, is unpredictable. We often find ourselves in situations where we don’t know how things will turn out. It’s frustrating, even maddening, to feel like we don’t have control. But here’s the thing—trying to control everything is a trap because life rarely goes according to plan.

Instead of stressing over the unknown, I am learning to focus on what I can control. Most of the time when we feel out of control we leave the arena and stand on the sidelines of life, waiting to regain control. I want to remind you that there’s life to be lived, even when we don’t have all the answers. It’s crucial to teach ourselves to move forward with trust in the Lord and faith that everything will work out for the best.

Here’s what is in my control: my thoughts, how I raise my children, my studies, spending time with loved ones, my routine, working out, and how I respond to the things that happen around me. What about you, mama? What is in your control?

 3. Mindset Is Everything

Year 32 was tough for me. I found myself constantly asking, “Why is this happening to me?” My thoughts would spiral, making me feel sad and overwhelmed. One day, I decided to see a therapist, hoping for some profound advice. Instead, he told me something simple but powerful: “Discipline your thoughts, Busi.”

At first, I was disappointed. Was that it? But as time went on, I realized he was right. Our thoughts shape our reality. If we allow them to run wild, they can lead us down a dark path. But if we discipline them, we can start to see the beauty in our lives, even in the things we wish hadn’t happened.

I heard something on a podcast that really stuck with me: “Life is not happening to me, it’s happening for me.” This shift in perspective has been transformative. I’m not bitter—I’m getting better.

As moms, we juggle so much, and it’s easy to get caught up in the chaos. But remember, your mindset is powerful. By choosing to see the beauty in your life, you can transform even the most challenging moments into opportunities for growth.

These are the 3 lessons I have learned this past year. Cheers to year 33 and the lessons it will bring. Let’s embrace discipline, focus on what we can control, and always remember that our mindset shapes our reality. What lessons have you learned this past year? I’d love to hear your thoughts, mama!

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