24 Life Lessons I Learned in 2024

2024 has been a rollercoaster for me. After spending two years in quarantine back in 2020, I’m still adjusting to this new world—new colleagues, a new workplace—it’s all so overwhelming. Everything feels dramatic, and everyone seems so different. Sometimes, I feel like I’m the only one struggling to catch up, painfully aware of how far behind I am. It’s like battling imposter syndrome as a grown-up. 

A friend once told me, “You look so happy; it seems like everything’s going great for you.” But let’s be real—who actually shares the ugly parts on social media? There were times when it felt like my entire world was crumbling, and I even caught myself wishing everyone else had a life as messy as mine. I ended up in a circle of people I never imagined being around, and it took months to find my footing. I met someone, went through a heartbreak, and I’ll never forget the days when I sat at my office desk, feeling like my life was falling apart, unable to stop crying. 

But amidst the chaos, I was fortunate to meet some incredible friends—people who brought me hope and reminded me that life is so much more than its struggles. Their kindness and connection were like a light cutting through a tough year. They taught me that it’s okay to take my time figuring out how this adult world works and reminded me of the countless blessings Allah has granted us to enjoy, instead of fixating on things beyond our control. They gave me the space to process my emotions and the courage to face the next day. What seemed like small gestures to them made a world of difference to someone like me who was struggling. I also learned to turn to Allah without hesitation—seeking His forgiveness, His help, and His guidance to keep me on the right path. Books became a source of comfort too, offering practical life tips that I’m trying to apply so I can make the most of my 20s instead of letting them slip by. 

So, here’s a list of life lessons I’ve carefully curated in my journal—insights I’ve gained throughout the year. And as the days go by, the list continues to grow.

Personal Growth & Self-Development 

1. Never rely on humans; they are flawed, and you’ll end up disappointed. 
2. Find solace within yourself—that’s what draws people to you. 
3. Be active and explore your life. It’s never too late to try something new. 
4. Sticking to your comfort zone won’t help you grow. True progress comes from embracing challenges and overcoming discomfort. 
5. One time Focused deep work without distraction >> multi-tasking
6. Failure is a normal part of life. It doesn’t define you—it’s part of the journey to becoming a better version of yourself.

Health & Wellness 

1. Replace junk food with healthier snacks. 
2. Sad to report that jogging is incredibly beneficial in your late twenties. It helps regulate your mood, provides mental clarity, and boosts stamina. 
3. Always start your day with plain water—before reaching for coffee or anything sugary.

Relationships 

1. Don’t let fear stop you from expressing love; it’s the key to forming deep, meaningful connections. 
2. After expressing your love, don’t be afraid to step back if the relationship doesn’t align with your values. Don’t force what isn’t meant to be. 
3. When your heart aches, pray for Allah to replace the pain with greater blessings. As mentioned in one hadith: Whoever gives up something for the sake of Allah, He will replace it with something better. 
4. Don’t take things personally. When people speak negatively to you, they’re often projecting their own insecurities. 
5. Don’t get defensive when people offer unsolicited advice. They may mean well, or they might just want to feel superior. Either way, say, “Thanks for your concern,” and move on. 

Productivity 

1. Make a bucket list every year and try new things. It’s a great way to feel accomplished, boost confidence, and enjoy the process. 
2. Finish what you start. When you feel like giving up, remember: it’s better to fail trying than to regret not doing anything. People with grit always see things through. 

Spiritual

1. Make your good deeds visible. Spread kindness until it becomes the norm. 
2. Bad people and tough situations will come your way. Instead of wasting energy on anger, focus on your well-being. Hardships are tests from Allah and opportunities for rewards. Take them as lessons, reflect, and move forward. 
3. إِنَّ مَعَ الْعُسْرِ يُسْرًا holds true when you recognize blessings rather than focusing only on difficulties. Gratitude leads to more blessings, as Allah promises: لَئِن شَكَرْتُمْ لَأَزِيدَنَّكُمْ
4. Shift from a victim mindset to being proactive, as Allah admonishes weak resignation, as mentioned in the Quran verse 4:97
   

   They reply: "We were weak and oppressed on earth". The Angels ask: “Was not the earth of Allah vast enough for you to emigrate therein?"

Financial  

1. Hold off on impulsive shopping urges. Invest in one high-quality item instead of buying cheap, low-quality things that are often unethically made. This supports a minimalist, sustainable lifestyle. 
2. You don’t need fancy coffee every morning. The caffeine at the office pantry works just fine. Save that money for something worthwhile.
3. Don’t hold back when it comes to investing in your dreams and future goals—it’s always worth it! Want to level up your skills? Go ahead and buy that course. Thinking about getting a coach? Hire one. Setting aside a small part of your salary each month and spending it on things that bring you closer to achieving your dreams is far better than giving in to unnecessary shopping urges.

These are the 24 life lessons I’ve learned in 2024, and I’m deeply grateful to Allah for giving me the chance to experience and grow from them. May He bless us all with even more blessings and rizq in 2025. What are the lessons you’ve learned this year?