Reaching 35 often brings a new level of perspective and maturity. You’ve likely had some life lessons thrown your way, and if you’ve paid attention, you know that personal growth isn’t about knowing everything—it’s about understanding a few powerful truths deeply. Here are six principles that, by 35, you should have figured out, because they’ll serve you better than anything else.
1. Silence Speaks Volumes
Not everything that crosses your mind needs to come out of your mouth. Sometimes, the most powerful thing you can say is absolutely nothing. Silence gives you a chance to observe, to think, and, most importantly, to understand. It shows that you’re confident enough not to jump into every conversation and wise enough to know that your words have weight.
2. Know When to Respect, Not Compete
When you meet someone smarter, don’t compete. Recognize that competition often comes from insecurity, while collaboration and respect are built on true strength. Embrace what you can learn from others rather than getting caught up in the endless, draining cycle of comparison. Remember, success isn’t a zero-sum game. Growing alongside intelligent people only raises your own potential.
3. Prioritize the Family You’re Building
By now, you likely understand that the family you create is your legacy. Those relationships—your partner, children, and chosen family—are the ones you nurture and support. They need your focus and care, because they’re part of the life you’re actively building. The family you came from helped shape you, but the family you’re creating will be your most important priority moving forward.
4. Quality Over Quantity in Friendships
In your 20s, it may have felt great to have a big social circle, but as life gets busier, you realize that one true friend who genuinely celebrates your successes and encourages your dreams is worth far more than a crowd of acquaintances who might bring negativity and jealousy. Seek out those who are rooting for you—those who push you to be better, and who bring positivity into your life. That’s the kind of friend you need in your corner.
5. Forgiveness is Freedom
As you mature, the best gift you can give yourself is to let go of blame, especially toward your parents. Sure, nobody had perfect parents, and you may have your fair share of grievances. But holding onto them only weighs you down. Forgiveness doesn’t mean you forget, but it allows you to move forward. Let go of resentment; it opens up space for more happiness and growth.
6. Skip the Endless Self-Help Books and Take Action
We’ve all been there—getting lost in self-help books, podcasts, and endless advice. But there’s only one thing that truly fuels growth: action. Reading about how to change your life is just the beginning; the real work comes in implementing what you’ve learned and showing up with discipline. You don’t need to read hundreds of books on how to improve—choose a few principles that resonate with you, and then live them out.
By now, you’re wise enough to know that personal growth doesn’t come from knowing a hundred things; it’s about deeply understanding a few powerful truths. So, if you’re on board with these principles, if you’re ready to act on them, drop a 💯 in the comments and hit that follow. This page is for those who are here to build, grow, and win.
