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30 Things You Should Stop Doing to Yourself By The Time You’re 30

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Your twenties are a time of exploration, mistakes, and growth. But as you approach 30, it’s time to leave certain habits behind. These aren’t just behaviors –  they’re patterns that can hold you back from living your best life. While everyone’s journey is different, here are 30 things you should consider stopping as you enter your third decade.

Living in the Past  

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Dwelling on past mistakes or missed opportunities keeps you from enjoying the present. It’s easy to feel weighed down by “what ifs” and “could haves,” but learning to release the past can open doors to a brighter future. Start small by focusing on gratitude and accepting your growth. Use the lessons you’ve learned, and let the past be a stepping stone, not a roadblock, to what’s next.

Ignoring Financial Health

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Living paycheck to paycheck without a plan can put your future at risk. Building a basic budget and prioritizing savings creates a solid foundation for financial security. It’s not about deprivation; it’s about setting up your life for peace of mind. As your 30s approach, think about investing and building an emergency fund to ensure you’re prepared for unexpected expenses without sacrificing your well-being.

Holding onto Toxic Relationships

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Some friendships or relationships that once felt meaningful might start to feel draining. Hanging on to people who undermine your confidence or drain your energy prevents you from building positive connections. By setting boundaries with those who don’t uplift you, you’re making space for supportive and encouraging people who inspire your best self.

Neglecting Your Physical Health

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It’s easy to push off exercise for “tomorrow,” but that “tomorrow” keeps moving further away. Adding even a little daily movement can make a big difference—stretching, walking, dancing in the kitchen—whatever gets you moving. Shift your mindset from seeing exercise as a chore to something that boosts energy and mood. You’ll thank yourself for making activity a habit, not just an item on your to-do list.

Procrastinating on Personal Goals 

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It’s easy to say, “I’ll start someday,” but when will that day come? By postponing goals, you risk looking back with regrets. Even small steps – like setting a weekly goal or spending 10 minutes a day on a project helps you build momentum. Turning 30 is a great time to start taking action toward dreams you’ve kept on hold, no matter how small. You’ll be surprised at the progress you can make.

Constantly Comparing Yourself to Others  

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Social media and societal pressures make it easy to compare your journey to others. But everyone’s path is unique, and comparing yourself steals joy from your achievements. Practice celebrating your milestones, however small, and remember that progress is personal. Life isn’t a competition, and turning 30 is a perfect time to stop measuring yourself by others’ standards.

Living Beyond Your Means 

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Overspending to “keep up” with others or chasing temporary luxuries can leave you stressed and struggling. By learning to budget and prioritize your needs, you’re creating a secure financial base. Living within your means brings more peace and less pressure, allowing you to save and plan for meaningful goals. A stable foundation in your 30s can lead to greater freedom and flexibility down the road.

Ignoring Mental Health Needs

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Everyone deals with stress in their own way, but the key is not to get overwhelmed. A few minutes of therapy, a short break, or practicing some mindfulness can have a huge impact. There are more than a million bad days, and the only way to get through them is to develop techniques to deal with stress. Heading into your 30s, consider mental well-being as essential as physical health – it’s the glue that keeps everything else together.

Neglecting Sleep  

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Staying up late at night may come off as effective, but making a proper sleep schedule is important for your mental and physical state. Experts recommend sleep of around 7 to 9 hours to help you recharge your body and mind. Missing sleep alters everything from concentration levels to the function of the immune system. From the age of 30 and above, sleep should be a priority as it will enhance health and productivity.

Holding Grudges  

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Carrying resentment only burdens you, taking up emotional space that could be used for positive growth. Forgiveness doesn’t mean excusing behavior; it’s about freeing yourself from bitterness. Practice letting go, and you’ll find a new sense of peace. Moving into your 30s, focus on maintaining your own well-being rather than holding onto past mistakes of others, it’s one of the best gifts you can give yourself.

Putting Off Savings for Retirement  

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Waiting to save for retirement can cost you in the long run. Even small, consistent contributions now can lead to substantial growth over time due to compounding. Start putting away a little each month. No matter how small, it will add up. Turning 30 is an ideal time to prioritize retirement savings and ensure financial freedom for the future.

Letting Fear of Failure Stop You  

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Fearing mistakes can hold you back from incredible experiences. Everyone faces setbacks; it’s how you handle them that counts. Embrace failure as a learning opportunity rather than a roadblock. Taking risks and learning from errors builds resilience and confidence. By 30, shifting your mindset can open up a world of possibilities that fear once held back.

Neglecting Professional Networking 

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Professional connections can open doors you didn’t know existed. Networking doesn’t have to be forced—it’s about building genuine relationships over time. Attend events, join groups, or connect with mentors in your field. By your 30s, you’ll find that a strong network can enhance your career, provide support, and help you grow in ways that go beyond just landing a job.

Ignoring Your Skin  

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Skin care may sound tedious, but your future self will be grateful. Start with the basics: a good moisturizer and sunscreen are simple ways to keep your skin feeling and looking fresh. Small habits make a difference over time, especially in your 30s, when life tends to get busier. Your skin’s with you for life, so show it some love now.

Avoiding Financial Literacy

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If money talk makes you nervous, know you’re not alone. Just a little knowledge on budgeting, saving, and investing goes a long way in keeping you out of sticky situations. Learning the basics means less stress and more control. Heading into your 30s, a basic understanding of finances isn’t about getting rich; it’s about having peace of mind and more freedom to make choices that fit your life.

Overcommitting Yourself 

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Saying yes to everything will exhaust you. Learning to set boundaries and prioritize what truly matters can enhance your quality of life. Your time and energy are valuable; protect them by being selective with commitments. Moving into your 30s, focus on what aligns with your values and avoid spreading yourself too thin.

Relying on One Income Stream  

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Job security isn’t always guaranteed, and relying solely on one income source can be risky. Explore side hustles, freelancing, or passive income options to create additional financial stability. By the time you’re 30, having multiple income streams provides a safety net that can support you during changes and helps you achieve financial freedom sooner.

Being Too Hard on Yourself  

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Setting high standards is one thing, but constant self-criticism can be counterproductive. Practice self-compassion and celebrate your achievements, big or small. By treating yourself with kindness, you’re building resilience and a positive outlook. Heading into your 30s, allow yourself grace to grow, make mistakes, and appreciate how far you’ve come.

Not Prioritizing Quality Time with Loved Ones  

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Life gets busy, but the people you love deserve your time and attention. Try to connect meaningfully with family and friends, even if it’s just a call or a quick catch-up. Valuing these relationships will definitely provide a sense of support, joy, and connection. After all, it’s often these simple moments that become the memories you’ll cherish most.

Ignoring Debt Repayment 

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Carrying debt can feel overwhelming, but avoiding it won’t make it go away. Begin with small, regular payments, and tackle high-interest debt first to save in the long run. By focusing on repaying debt now, you’re clearing the path to financial freedom in your 30s and beyond. Little by little, you’ll reduce the burden and feel more in control of your finances.

Skipping Health Check-Ups 

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Neglecting regular check-ups may seem fine when you’re young, but preventive care matters. A yearly visit to the doctor can catch issues early, saving you from potential complications. Turning 30 is a great time to make health a priority. Take care of yourself now, and you’ll enjoy a healthier, happier life.

Postponing Self-Care

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Waiting for the “right time” for self-care often means it never happens. Self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s essential to your well-being. Prioritize activities that refresh and rejuvenate you, whether it’s a walk, hobby, or quiet time. Entering your 30s, make self-care a regular part of your routine so you can show up fully in every part of your life.

Avoiding Difficult Conversations  

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Shying away from hard talks might feel easier at the moment, but it can lead to unresolved issues. Facing difficult conversations with honesty and respect strengthens relationships and builds trust. Heading into your 30s, practice having these conversations to foster understanding, growth, and stronger bonds with those you care about.

Being Reluctant to Try New Things  

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Staying in your comfort zone limits growth. Trying new things—whether it’s a skill, activity, or career path—keeps life exciting and enriches your experience. Embrace curiosity as you enter your 30s. Each new challenge or experience adds depth and perspective to your life, helping you grow in unexpected ways.

Not Setting Boundaries  

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Boundaries are essential for healthy relationships and well-being. Without them, you risk burnout, resentment, and feeling overwhelmed. Learn to communicate and enforce your limits to protect your time, energy, and peace of mind. Turning 30 is a great time to prioritize what matters and say no when necessary.

Ignoring Spiritual or Reflective Practices  

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Whether it’s meditation, journaling, or religious practice, setting aside time for inner reflection can bring clarity and peace. Life is busy, but these moments of quiet connection can center on you. In your 30s, take time to nurture your inner self. Reflecting on your purpose, goals, and values helps you feel more grounded and aligned.

Staying in a Job You Don’t Love  

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A job that drains your energy or doesn’t align with your goals can be a major source of unhappiness. Therefore, discover other options, take on new challenges, and try to balance the job with something that seems satisfying to you. As you turn 30, prioritize a career that resonates with your values and makes you excited to show up every day.

Not Celebrating Your Wins  

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Even the slightest success can be termed as an achievement so all of them deserve recognition. Also, remember making plans and taking time to celebrate your wins only increases your self-confidence and drives you in the future. All in all, as you age and reach your 30s, emphasize the little things that we quite often overlook.

Avoiding Financial Goals

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Financial security doesn’t just happen—it’s built. Set short and long-term financial goals, whether it’s saving for travel, buying a home, or building an emergency fund. Goals give direction and help you stay focused. By 30, having financial goals puts you in control of your money and sets you up for future freedom and choices.

Constantly Seeking Validation from Others

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Relying on others’ approval can trap you in a cycle of doubt and insecurity. Chasing validation takes away your focus from what truly matters. Try practicing self-validation by celebrating your own achievements and making decisions based on your values. Also, focus on building self-confidence from within, knowing that your worth isn’t dependent on external praise. 

Written by Lisa O

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