A year older

“Happy Birthday to me
Happy Birthday to me
Happy Birthday to Trueblue
Happy Birthday to me”

Yep, it’s my birthday today. 32 years old. My, my…Has 1 year really gone by that fast?

Back when I was in my teens, I thought adults who were in their 30s looked so matured. I would look at them and think “Gosh, I can’t imagine what I’d look like at that age!”.

I remembered 2 years ago, I was dreading to reach the big 3-0 age. It felt like I was entering another era, another phase in my life and I wasn’t sure I was ready for it. Being in the 20s was fine. It was the age where we were a little bit matured and just about entered the adult phase. It was the age where in a way we could still get away with things because we were still experimenting life. I had this vision that being in the 30s meant that ‘yes, you’re much older (you’ll look older too). It’s time to get serious. It’s time to get a hold of your life’. So it felt kind of scary. Gone are the days when people called you ‘adik’. People would start thinking of you as a ‘kakak’ or an ‘aunty’. So yes, you’ll definitely look older!

My guy friends (who have past 30) told me then that I shouldn’t worry. Women start to peak when they are in their 30s. They will blossom and become very much matured. They will also be more experienced in certain areas (if you know what I mean *wink*). I couldn’t quite picture what they meant at the time so I just had to trust them. It’s not like I could stop time anyway.

Now that I’m already in my 30s, I agree, it’s not as bad as I thought it was. It’s not bad at all actually. I mean, ageing is a natural process of life. Its not like the moment you hit 30, you’re gonna look like a sack of potatoes. It’s all in the mind. If you’re really concerned about looking old, then take steps to take care of your health. Do the normal stuff like exercise and eat well. Women in their 30s can still look hot, right? :)

I’ve learned many things since turning 30. Yes, I’ve definitely become more matured. I try not to whine about petty things because there’s seriously more important things in life. I have set my priorities and pretty much have an idea what I want in life. I’ve learnt to also be more thankful and not to take things or people for granted. I’m thankful to have family and friends who love me. I’m thankful for being healthy, for having the strength and energy to do things. I’m thankful for all the experienced I’ve gained. Sure, there were regrets but I’ve learnt from the mistakes and its time to just move on. Plan well for your future and enjoy life the best way you can. Age doesn’t really stop you.

So a word of advice to those who dread turning 30, don’t be. Trust me; it’s not at all that bad.

I’m 32 years old today and looking forward to greater years ahead!

P/S: Today is also Bono’s (U2) and Nick Heidfeld’s (BMW Sauber driver) birthday. So Happy Birthday to Bono and Nick!

The best birthday pressie of the day