Reflecting on Life’s Journey
Life has a way of sneaking up on you. One moment you’re celebrating your 21st birthday, and the next, you’re reflecting on decades gone by. On 17th November, 2024, I turned 43, and while ageing is often marked by numbers, it’s the lessons—not the years—that define us.
Since turning 40, I’ve gained new perspectives on what it means to live meaningfully. Life is not just about reaching milestones or achieving goals—it’s about understanding what truly matters. These lessons haven’t come from books or grand events but from everyday experiences that have shaped how I see the world.
Today, I’d like to share the three most impactful life lessons I’ve learned, with the hope they might inspire your own reflections.
Lesson 1: Valuing Time – Life’s Most Precious Resource
Shifting Focus to What Matters Most
When I turned 40, I began to think differently about time. It’s not just something that passes; it’s something we invest. Every minute we spend is a moment of life we won’t get back. That realisation changed the way I look at my days.
Time is like a blank canvas. How we use it determines the picture we paint. I’ve learned to see time as a gift—a treasure that should be spent wisely. It’s not about rushing or cramming too much into a day but about focusing on what truly matters.
Living Intentionally Every Day
Now, I try to filter my time through a simple question: “Does this add value to my life?” If the answer is no, then I think twice about saying yes. Life is too short to spend on things that don’t feel right.
For me, that means prioritising moments that bring joy and purpose. It might be working on something meaningful, having a heartfelt conversation, or even taking time to rest. What matters is that it feels right, not rushed.
The gift of time is one of the most important things we have. By choosing to use it well, we can create a life that feels full, not busy.
Lesson 2: Embracing Mortality – The Power of Being Present
Redefining Mortality as a Gift and Learning to Appreciate Life Now
Mortality isn’t something we like to think about. But over the past few years, I’ve found that reflecting on life’s fragility has given me a newfound appreciation for the present. Watching my loved ones grow older has been both humbling and enlightening.
Instead of fearing loss, I’ve learned to cherish every moment I have with them. It’s not about the grand gestures; it’s about the small, meaningful moments—the laughs, the stories, the quiet times.
It’s easy to get caught up thinking about the past or worrying about the future, but the present is where life happens.
When I focus on the here and now, everything feels richer. A cup of coffee becomes more than a drink—it’s a moment of calm. A conversation becomes more than words—it’s a connection. These small, everyday things are what make life beautiful.
Living in the present also means letting go of distractions. Putting down the phone, stepping away from work, and truly being there in the moment has helped me find more peace and happiness.
Being Present for Others
Another part of living in the present is showing up for the people in our lives. This has been a big focus for me over the past few years.
I’ve started asking myself: “Am I really listening? Am I giving my full attention?” Being present doesn’t just make relationships stronger; it makes life more meaningful.
Some of my favourite moments now are the simplest ones—sitting with family, laughing with friends, or just enjoying time together. Those moments remind me why it’s so important to focus on what’s happening now, not what’s next.
Lesson 3: People Matter More Than Things
Discovering the True Value of Relationships
When I was younger, I thought success was about achieving things—buying the car, getting the house, climbing the ladder. But as I’ve grown older, I’ve realised that real success isn’t about what we have; it’s about who we share it with.
The most meaningful parts of life aren’t found in possessions; they’re found in people. A kind word, a warm hug, or a shared laugh is worth far more than anything money can buy.
I’ve learned to focus on building relationships, not collecting things. The more I invest in people, the richer my life feels.
Why Moments with Loved Ones Matter Most
These days, I spend more time thinking about how I can be there for the people I love. Life is short, as I have mentioned before, and the moments we share with others are what make it so special.
Whether it’s celebrating small wins, supporting each other through challenges, or simply spending time together, these moments are what I value most. They remind me that the real treasures in life aren’t things—they’re the connections we make and the love we give.
As an immigrant from Venezuela, I have experienced the bittersweet reality of having family and friends scattered across the globe due to the Venezuelan diaspora. To bridge these distances, I have been proactive in reconnecting—whether by visiting loved ones abroad, inviting them to join me, or organising gatherings to bring us together. Beyond personal efforts, I am also focused on uniting the broader Latin American community by attending cultural events that celebrate our shared heritage and foster a sense of belonging.
Conclusion: Moving Forward with Gratitude
As I step into this new chapter, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the life lessons I’ve learned and the journey I’ve been on. Time, presence, and relationships have become the cornerstones of how I choose to live. I invite you to watch the video below to fully grasp the depth of these lessons and how they can transform your approach to life.
I’m excited about the future, not just because of what I might achieve, but because of the connections I’ll continue to build and the moments I’ll get to share with others. Life is a journey, and it’s the people we walk it with who make it truly special.
I encourage you to reflect on your own life. How are you spending your time? Are you living in the moment? And are you making space for the people who matter most?
Let’s embrace each day with intention and gratitude, creating a life that’s filled with meaning, joy, and love.
Embrace Growth and Change with Global Influence
The reflections I’ve shared here are a small part of the journey I’ve been on. In my book, Global Influence, I delve deeper into the lessons that shape not just how we communicate and lead, but how we connect with others. It’s a guide to embracing change, building resilience, and creating meaningful relationships that inspire growth and impact. If you found value in these insights, you’ll find even more practical strategies and transformative ideas in the book. Explore it today and take the next step in your personal and professional evolution.
