Estate Planning Lawyer
The saying “Wisdom comes with age” never held much water with me. From a young age, I was independent and thought I had figured out how to navigate life. By age 24, I was married with two kids, a mortgage, a good job, and my estate planning created with the help of an estate planning lawyer in Belgrade, MT, like from Silverman Law Firm. I assumed I knew everything about life and my entire future was mapped out. WRONG! At 36, I was divorced, my kids were being shuffled between two households, I had several jobs to make ends meet, and nothing made sense.
So, what would I say to a younger version of myself?
1. You are Strong. Situations will always come along in life to challenge you and you can either stick your head in the sand or meet them head on. Remember your current situation is temporary and will not last forever. Be your own warrior!
2. Don’t Take it So Personal. While a divorce is a very personal experience, it takes two people to end a relationship. I accepted most of the blame for many years, totally forgetting that there was another person who had issues and contributed to the breakdown of the relationship.
3. Let go of Toxic Relationships. Say goodbye to toxic relationships, both personal and professional, that conflicts or goes against your core values. Leaving a long-term relationship is always difficult, but once you take the leap you will experience a surge of empowerment. Surround yourself with positive and supportive people and you in turn will be more supportive and positive.
4. Take Time for Yourself. Take time for yourself. You’d be surprised how much you can learn about yourself when you spend time to reflect and have quiet time. Take time for your loved ones. You can’t be a good mom or role model to your children, if you’re not spending quality time with your loved ones. Money is no substitute for the memories you create with your children and you will never get that time back. Make each day count.
5. Laugh More. Have a sense of humor and laugh more. Laughter is good for the soul and can make even a tense situation seem less stressful. Find humor every day and learn to smile and laugh. Look at the big picture, life holds so much joy and happiness if you only look for it.
6. Be kind. I love the saying: “In a world where you can be anything, be kind.” No need to elaborate on this advice, the quote says it all.
7. Remember, you are Loved. If you feel you will never be loved again, remember you are a beautiful, loving and giving soul. You will experience a deeper, more meaningful love than you ever imagined. This deep love may come from another person, but it may also come from within, as you have truly learned to love yourself, just for who you are.
I look forward to the next 20 years of wisdom to give to my former self of today. Be well and be kind.
Submitted by Audrey Blomquist, Paralegal