27 Things I've learned at 27

Turning 27 has been full of surprises. Between 26 and now, I’ve had major career changes, relocated to a new city, navigated changing relationships, got married to the love of my life, dove deeper into my creativity, and so much more. There were obstacles and hard lessons, but I’m thankful for every single moment and for the people who carried me through.

This year brought major growth. For example, I went from living by myself for over three years to living with my husband—which has been beautiful, fun, and… interesting. I had to face areas of growth in myself, like being less tempered and uncompromising with space (I’m a maximalist—if you know, you know). My husband is the best man in the world, but even then, we both had to practice patience with one another when things weren’t easy. Between working full time and carrying the weight of the world on our shoulders, it’s easy to forget patience, understanding, and kindness when the pressures of life are knocking at your door. Along the way, I needed reminders—not about being perfect, but about striving to be the best version of myself. Not the best all the time, but at least not giving in to the worst. Because truthfully, it’s often easier to lean into negativity than to choose positivity. But despite everything, here I am—living in my truth, with a love that only God can give.

Honestly, I don’t even know how to wrap my head around everything. It’s been unbelievable, difficult, and beautiful all at once. The thing about change and getting older is that they’re both blessings—but they can also be tough to reckon with.

Sometimes I think about all the ideas and goals I thought I’d accomplish by now, but haven’t. I notice my health and body in ways 17-year-old Alexus would’ve brushed off. Spiritually, mentally, emotionally—I’m changing. And I finally understand why the people around me randomly break out into prayer with a quick, “Oh Lord” or “Jesus, fix it!”

At 27, I have my own set of challenges, but I’m grateful. Grateful to live another day. Grateful to try. Because really, that’s all you can do: try your best, be your best, and keep going.

Here’s to 27—and all the lessons I’m carrying with me:

1. Life changes quickly.

2. Love the life you live, and take honor in the ways you live it.

3. Your task in life is to love and be loved.

4. Change is possible, but it starts with your mindset.

5. The world has many problems—your responsibility is to help solve at least one.

6. God loves you because you are YOU.

7. Travel as much as you can.

8. Eat good, eat healthy.

9. Tell people you love them more often.

10. Read everything—fiction, nonfiction, romance, mystery, whatever sparks you.

11. Don’t take social media too seriously.

12. Invest in your creativity—you don’t have to be Picasso to make art.

13. Start investing in your retirement, no matter how little.

14. It’s okay to cry—it’s healthy.

15. You can’t make everyone happy.

16. Growing older and wiser is a blessing.

17. Love is a blessing—never take it for granted.

18. It’s okay to be wrong—what matters is that you try to be better next time.

19. Philippians 4:6-7: Be anxious for nothing...

20. Faith can move mountains

21. Pray, daily and often

22. Start where you are

23. There is no such thing as a perfect moment, only right now which is a beautiful moment

24. Be honest and truthful

25. Stand up for what you believe

26. Say at least 3 positive things a day

27. Always make time to relax, do you makeup, and dress up