Hey, remember that part in 13 Going on 30 where Jenna Rink wakes up in her 30s?
She’s got a fancy apartment, a great career, and it seems like she’s got her life all figured out. Sounds like a dream, right? But let’s be real — turning 30 in the real world doesn’t always feel like a Hollywood fairytale.
Stop comparing yourself to others
As we get closer to 30, we can’t help but wonder: “Shouldn’t I have it all together by now?” We see those with stable jobs, perfect relationships, and those enviable kitchens on Pinterest, and we start to feel a bit of pressure to measure up. And let’s not even get started on the social media highlight reels. Who hasn’t scrolled through someone else’s “perfect” life and wondered, What am I doing wrong?But here’s the good news: turning 30 isn’t a crisis—it’s an opportunity.The perfect time for a fresh startThink about it: your 30s are a blank slate.It’s a chance to step back, reflect, and ask yourself: What do I really want from life? Forget what society says you should be doing and focus on your own path.Take Vera Wang, for example. She didn’t become the iconic fashion designer we know today until her 40s. She left a successful career at Vogue to follow her passion for design.If Vera can start fresh in her 40s, why can’t you rewrite your story in your 30s?
Tips for Navigating the Big 3-0
Breathe and stop comparing yourself to others.
Your journey is yours—no one else’s.There’s no universal “timeline” for life.While someone might be buying their second home, you might just be discovering your dream career.And guess what? That’s perfectly okay.
Focus on what you can control
You can’t control the economy, your friends’ choices, or that influencer’s seemingly flawless life, but you can control your attitude, how you spend your time, and the goals you set for yourself.
Set Realistic Goals
GoalsDon’t overwhelm yourself by trying to “fix” everything overnight.Break your big dreams into smaller, manageable steps.Dream of running your own business?Start with a side hustle.Want to get healthier?Swap takeout for home-cooked meals once a week.Celebrate every win, no matter how small.
Talk It Out
Feeling stuck or overwhelmed? You’re not alone. Share your thoughts with a friend, family member, or mentor. Sometimes, just voicing your worries can bring clarity—and support from others is invaluable.
Turning 30 doesn’t mean you’re running out of time. It’s a fresh chapter—a chance to grow, learn, and build a life that genuinely excites you. Use this milestone as an opportunity to reevaluate what success means to you and focus on what brings you joy.