From quitting my job to moving across the world – here’s what I’ve learned about life, love, and taking risks.

It was my 34th birthday two weeks ago.

Ten years ago, I had no idea where life would lead me. I was on a steady path, had a good career, and the future appeared bright. Then I gave up. I filed for bankruptcy. After packing my stuff, I left Lithuania and finally arrived in Bali. In the past few years, I’ve lived more than I ever thought possible.

This is what I wish I had known when I was 24.

1. You Are Not Your Job Title.

You might quit your job, change careers, or launch a business that doesn’t work out (hi, me). You are not defined by any of it. Your LinkedIn profile does not determine your value.

2. Being Comfortable Will Cost You.

The best things in life happen when you step into the unknown. I left everything behind, quit my job without real plans, and somehow ended myself in a life I adore. You’re not growing if you’re not at least a little afraid.

3. Your Passport Is the Best Investment You’ll Ever Make.

Go. Travel. Look around. Get lost. Each time you return, you will be a different person.

4. People Care Less Than You Think.

You fear making a fool of yourself, failing in front of others, or saying the wrong thing. However, no one is paying as much attention as you believe. They’re too preoccupied with their problems.

5. You Can Start Over. Anytime.

New city. New career. New dreams. Nothing is permanent unless you decide it is.

6. If You Want a Certain Life, Build It.

No one will give you the life you desire. Do you desire freedom? Make decisions that will bring you freedom. Are you up for an adventure? Accept the unknown. You are in charge.

7. Love Is Easy With the Right Person.

Love is not supposed to feel like a constant battle. Look for someone who makes life easier rather than more difficult.

8. You Can’t Make Everyone Happy.

The sooner you stop trying, the sooner you’ll be free.

9. Money Won’t Solve Everything, But It Helps.

Go after financial freedom, but don’t expect it to fix your self-worth or happiness. Those are different currencies.

10. Fear Is a Sign You’re on the Right Track.

If something scares you, it probably means it matters. Do it anyway.

11. You’ll Regret The Things You Didn’t Do More Than The Things You Did.

Embarrassment fades. Missed chances don’t.

12. Most Things Aren’t That Serious.

Laugh more. Shrug things off. It’s rarely the end of the world.

13. Be With People Who Help You Grow.

The right people will challenge you, inspire you, and make you believe in yourself more. Keep them close.

14. Social Media Is Not Real Life.

It’s a curated highlight reel. Don’t compare your behind-the-scenes to someone else’s perfect shot.

15. Happiness Comes From Alignment, Not Achievement.

Trophies, titles, and money mean nothing if you’re miserable. Find what truly feels right for you.

16. If It’s Not a Hell Yes, It’s a No.

This applies to jobs, relationships, and weekend plans.

17. Nobody Has It Figured Out.

Everyone is winging it, even the people who seem like they know what they’re doing.

18. Life Rarely Goes As Planned.

And that’s a good thing.

19. You’re Allowed to Change.

Who you were at 24 doesn’t have to be who you are at 34. Growth is the whole point.

20. Trust Yourself More.

You know more than you think you do. You’ve got this.

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Here’s to the next decade – whatever it brings ❤