Top 5 Things You Should Know by 30

Thirtysomething. It hits me like a ton of bricks to see it in writing. But, it's not all bad. I might not have it all together, but I am probably closer now than I ever was. Like many my age, I have a career, started a family, and have made enough mortgage payments to realize the value of a dollar. I have made my fair share of mistakes and learned from most of them. From my perspective, I have a lot to offer in terms of life experience and wisdom.

So, that being the case I decided to think about what are the most important things I have learned up to this point. A worthy exercise at any age really. Just in case you don't have time though, here is my list of the Top 5 Things You Should Know By 30:

5) How to Save Money: This is a Principle. Many learn this principle at a young age, most of us don't get it until we are entrenched in our third job out of college and suffocating by mounting debt and the growing number of bills delivered to our mailbox each month. But, it's never too late to start! Make a commitment and stick to it. Aim for 10% of your NET income. If that seems daunting, try less, but try something. Begin putting it away today and tomorrow will not seem so overwhelming.

4) No Man is an Island: And that goes for couples too. Having friends is important for everyone. Make an effort to meet and carve out time for others. A guy's night out here, a girl's night out there. It's also good to throw in a couples outing one evening. It seems ridiculous, but it is good for keeping life in perspective and meeting inherent needs derived from our longing to connect with others. Friendships bring with them adventure, excitement, and at times conflict. But, it is well worth the effort. Life is much fuller with others to share it with.

3) You are Worth Investing In: So make sure you are the best you, you can be. Eat right, exercise, and use your gifts and talents to help others. We are all unique and bring something worthwhile to the table. Investing time, energy, and hard work into the things you love the most will only grow you into a well-rounded and interesting person. If you can tackle something that frightens you, regardless of your circumstance, do not make excuses. Take that class or start that project you keep putting off. Be who you are, and live the best way you can.

2) Who Jesus Is: Whether others believe he is the Son of God or not, consider him for yourself. No single person in history has stirred as much debate, prompted as many changed lives, or been such a singular stumbling block for people across the globe. Do not waste another moment, open the Bible. Read the Gospels. Make it a priority to find out the truth about Jesus, everything else is just icing on the cake.

1) How to Teach Something: Anything really. Take time to discover that skill, talent or idea that you can pass on to someone else. It is part of leaving a legacy. It is part of being human. Passing on a piece of you to someone else, whether it is a child, co-worker, or friend brings imperishable treasure into your life and theirs. Put aside your insecurities and make up your mind to share something of yourself. It will do a world of good.