Celebrating 42: Finding Joy in the Small Things (Because They’re the Big Things)
Birthday Reflections
Birthdays always bring on reflection, and this year, as I marked 42 trips around the sun, I am celebrating the small moments that could go unnoticed but, in reality, make up the substance of our lives. Laughter over a shared meal, a clean house, a full fridge, hilarious things kids say without knowing they’re hilarious, the comfort of a phone call from a lifelong friend, a rare sunny day during winter in the Pacific Northwest, a perfect cup of coffee, a clean bill of health— these are the big things. The moments that matter most.
Truthfully, I’ve not had the time, focus, oomph, or desire to share here much personally. 2025 was going to be my “year of self-care” after what felt like a very grueling 2024 — and then reality hit — and there was no self-care! January and February felt like a decade on their own💥, and here we are in March. Amid all the tough and concerning things happening and dominating the news and our attention, I’m more thankful than ever for the people, practices, and small joys that fill my heart. I choose happiness, gratitude, and joy — and I hope you will too!💐
Last year, I listed 41 lessons I had learned in 41 years — and, I like the list a lot! So, as I celebrate another year of learning, noticing the good things, pouring love into my life, and growing, I’m adding one more lesson to my list, making it 42:
42. Find joy in the small things — they are the big things.
It’s easy to get caught up in pursuing the next milestone, the next big win, the next adventure, or even the next to-do. But the real magic? It’s in the ordinary, everyday moments that make life extraordinary.
In honor of this new 42nd chapter in my book of life, here’s my updated list of 42 lessons — things I’ve learned, things I’m putting into practice, and things I hope to carry forward with me:
- You are your own best investment with the most significant ROI.
- You must love yourself before you can love anyone else correctly. Self-love and acceptance are the foundation for all of the good you deserve.
- Trust your instincts/gut/intuition. You know more than you think you do.
- The things that made me feel othered and outcast earlier in life are now the source of some of my power and creativity. Homogeneity leads to mediocrity. Be you.
- There’s a lot of power in telling our stories and speaking our truth.
- Move through fear. What we want is often on the other side.
- It is not too late, and I am not too old.
- As Maya Angelou said, “Have enough courage to trust love one more time and always one more time.”
- Be proud of how far you’ve come and excited for where you haven’t been yet.
- True strength lies in vulnerability. Don’t be afraid to show your authentic self and share your emotions with trusted individuals. Vulnerability creates deep connections and helps us grow.
- Treasure your friends.
- Tell people you love them. A lot!
- Nothing brings me more joy than helping someone achieve their goals and win.
- I always have room in my life for more powerful women.
- Surrounding yourself with the right people can change your life.
- Give great hugs.
- Always be good to people.
- Look for ways to be generous.
- Don’t be a jerk. It is never worth it.
- You will never regret doing the right thing.
- Things usually work out when you do the right things for the right reasons.
- Set boundaries that work for you.
- You don’t owe anyone anything.
- Forgive! Holding onto grudges only weighs you down. Learn to forgive yourself and others for past mistakes and transgressions. Forgiveness liberates your spirit and allows you to move forward with clarity and peace of mind.
- Time and space reveal a lot. Be patient.
- Gratitude helps the good in your life multiply.
- You move differently when you’re happy.
- Unfortunately, not everyone is rooting for you, which has more to do with them than with you. Wish them well and keep moving forward.
- Energy, karma, and manifestation are real. Be intentional.
- You’ll never regret getting some exercise.
- Drink more water!
- Yes, we need to wear sunscreen!
- Take pictures of everything.
- Never miss a chance to put your toes in the ocean or stare at the moon.
- Be grateful for the small moments. They turn into big memories.
- Time is precious. Stop wasting it.
- Everyone makes mistakes. The key is not to make the same ones over and over again.
- Do not shrink to make anyone more comfortable.
- Don’t overshare on the internet.
- There is so much more out there than you think — more love, happiness, success, joy, security, fulfillment — so much more.
- Find joy in the small things — they are the big things.
🌟 A little about me:
I’m Natalie Ruiz, CEO of AnswerConnect, and my path to leadership has been anything but conventional. That journey has shaped my relentless curiosity — challenging traditional ideas about work, success, and balance. Along the way, I’ve been honored as Female Executive of the Year, Woman of Influence (Portland Business Journal), and one of the 100 Women to Know in America, among other recognitions.
Beyond my career, I’m passionate about giving back. Whether I’m mentoring, speaking on global stages, sharing insights through podcasts and publications, or rolling up my sleeves for community impact, my goal is always the same: to leave people and places better than I found them.
Let’s connect: Medium | LinkedIn
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