Seventeen years ago today I woke up not particularly excited about my own fourth birthday, but anticipating the arrival of my little brother. It turns out we share the exact same birthday—my brother Clay and I were born on the same day, four years apart. I like to joke that he’s my twin who arrived a few years late. I don’t know how my parents managed it, but it has always felt special to share this date. Happy birthday, Clay!
On the same day, I also want to wish a happy birthday to Victoria Beckham—Posh Spice—and nod to all the familiar faces who celebrate today.
As for me, I’m not someone who makes a big production out of my own birthday. I enjoy celebrating other people much more than I enjoy being celebrated. That said, birthdays are a nice excuse to slow down, spend time with friends, and appreciate the people around you. Today feels like any other day in many ways, but I’m looking forward to a relaxed birthday brunch with some of my closest girlfriends—good conversation, maybe a little dessert, and the kind of warmth that comes from being surrounded by people who make you laugh. If I indulge, it’ll probably be a glass of wine or a mimosa, and I’ll share a short recap later tonight.
Reading your thoughtful comments on my last post about the anxiety of turning 21 meant a lot to me. It’s comforting to hear from others who feel the same way—especially those who don’t feel pressure to drink or conform to typical birthday expectations. Your words were inspiring and helped me feel less alone. Let’s be friends—seriously. I wish I could invite every single one of you to brunch.
Instead of a big party, this year I’m treating my birthday as a moment to reflect and set intentions. Below I’m sharing 21 goals I’ve chosen to guide the year ahead—some are practical, some are personal, and some are long-term dreams. They’re meant to help me grow, stay grounded, and invest in the life I want to build. Some of these goals I’m already working toward; others are targets I’ve just put into words to turn intentions into plans.
21 Goals
1. Laugh every day—find small moments of joy and humor.
2. Volunteer at least once a week—to contribute time and energy where it matters.
3. Exercise at least six days a week—build consistency and prioritize health.
4. Eat more vegetables—focus on nourishing meals that support energy and well-being.
5. Reconnect with old friends—reach out and rebuild meaningful relationships.
6. Make new friends—expand my circle with people who inspire and support me.
7. Have a plan of action after I graduate—clarify next steps and set achievable milestones.
8. Move to BoCo—work toward relocating to a place that fits my goals and lifestyle.
9. Join AmeriCorps or a similar service organization—commit to meaningful service work.
10. Do research abroad—gain international experience and broaden my perspective.
11. Travel after graduation—see new places, rest, and learn from other cultures.
12. Complete a UROP—participate in undergraduate research opportunities to deepen academic skills.
13. Budget my finances better—create and follow a realistic financial plan.
14. Increase the money in my savings—build financial security and an emergency fund.
15. Drive my car less—use alternative transportation to reduce my footprint and stress.
16. Get my Master’s in Public Health—pursue graduate education aligned with my career goals.
17. Read more—devote time to books that inform, challenge, and inspire me.
18. Limit technology use—establish boundaries to improve focus and presence.
19. Run another half marathon—train consistently and enjoy the process of preparing.
20. Work for a nonprofit—align my career with mission-driven work that matters.
21. Earn a personal training certificate—gain qualifications to support health and fitness goals.
These goals are a mix of big-picture ambitions and everyday habits. Some will take months or years to fully realize, and others are about small daily choices. The point is progress, not perfection.
Thank you for being part of this little corner of my life. Whether you celebrate loudly or quietly, I hope you take a moment to reflect on what matters to you and set one small intention for the months ahead.
Happy Sunday!
-L
Are you a birthday sash wearer (do you love birthdays)?
Do you share a birthday with anyone special?