From SoCal Sun to NorCal Soul: 45 Life Reflections of a Fearless Latina PART III

Welcome to the final chapter of “From SoCal Sun to NorCal Soul: 45 Life Reflections of a Fearless Latina.” It contains some genuinely transformative lessons that have shaped me and light the way as I journey onward. Think of insights on the power of letting go and the magic of self-reinvention—each one is woven from the twists, turns, and challenges that turn life into the incredible adventure it is. These reflections remind me to embrace each moment, prioritize resilience over perfection, and remain steadfast in becoming my true self.

As you explore reflections 31-45, I hope you discover a wellspring of inspiration and insights to energize your own path. Life is stitched together with unexpected lessons, yet each one carries a special gift if you’re ready to unwrap it.

Whether it’s learning to trust your unique journey, finding serenity in uncertainty, or celebrating your own milestones, these last reflections honor the beautiful, ongoing growth process. So, let’s jump into this final part of the series and uncover the wisdom that unfolds when you choose to live boldly, authentically, and without fear.

In case you missed it, here's part I.

…and part deux.

31. It’s Okay to Outgrow People

One of the most challenging lessons I've learned is that outgrowing people isn’t just okay—it’s a natural part of life. As we evolve, so too do our relationships. Sometimes, the folks who once fit perfectly into our lives don’t quite align with the new versions of ourselves. Acknowledging this shift can be uncomfortable or painful, but clinging to relationships that no longer serve our growth out of obligation or nostalgia only holds us back.

Outgrowing someone doesn’t diminish your affection for them or their role in your life. It simply means that our paths are branching out, and that’s part of our respective journeys. We’re all continually growing, changing, and evolving. Some people are destined to walk alongside us for certain seasons, while others may only stay for a fleeting moment. Embracing this truth has given me the grace to let go without guilt, understanding that growth often requires us to release what no longer fits.

The key is to honor the significance someone had in your life while recognizing that it’s perfectly acceptable to move on. Not every relationship is meant to last a lifetime, and its worth doesn’t diminish because of it. The beauty of outgrowing connections is that it paves the way for new ones—relationships that resonate with the person you’re becoming. So, embrace this process; it indicates your personal evolution.

Listen. Cutting people out of my life has never been hard, once the decision to do so has been made. However, it's the emotional baggage (guilt) that it left that was hard for me to shake. 

Now, it's a simple checklist:

- What was my role in this situation?
- Did I do everything I could do to resolve this?

Take mental notes and then move on.

32. Not Every Season is Meant for Harvest

There are times in our lives when everything feels dynamic—opportunities abound, progress is evident, and the fruits of our labor are right before us. But then there are seasons of planting, where growth happens beneath the surface, and the rewards are yet to come. One of the most powerful truths I’ve grasped is that not all seasons are about harvesting. Frequently, the work lies in preparation, in laying the groundwork for what’s on the horizon.

In these planting phases, it’s easy to fall into impatience or frustration, especially when progress is painfully slow or difficult to see. Yet, during these quieter periods, resilience is forged, valuable lessons are learned, and the foundation for future success is solidified. Every season comes with its purpose. Just because the results aren’t noticeable doesn’t mean you’re not moving forward.

Accepting this has helped me embrace life's slower, less eventful moments without the constant pressure to achieve. Sometimes, you need that breathing space to nurture your ideas, recharge, or gather the strength for what lies ahead. Trust in the journey. The harvest will arrive when it’s time, but until then, honor where you are.

Q4 for most people involves going full throttle for holiday sales and the like. Not me. I need to take time to myself. I need time to think, to plan, and to just exist. I just wanna eat soup with a crusty piece of bread and drink hot beverages in my jammies.

33. Be Your Own Biggest Cheerleader

A support system is invaluable—people who uplift, believe in, and encourage you. But one of the most empowering lessons I’ve learned is the necessity of being your biggest cheerleader. You can’t always count on others to affirm your worth or celebrate your victories every step of the way. The most consistent and dependable source of support should come from deep within. You know your journey best, and it’s up to you to champion yourself along the way.

Being your own cheerleader doesn’t mean you don’t appreciate the encouragement from friends and loved ones. It’s about nurturing a mindset that lets you celebrate your own victories, drive yourself forward even when others aren’t fully on board, and recognize your own achievements. You are more than capable of acknowledging your progress and motivating yourself to keep pushing ahead.

This self-reliance is truly potent. It fosters resilience, boosts your confidence, and enhances your ability to navigate challenges. When you choose to be your biggest fan, you’re not leaning on external validation to determine your worth. You know exactly what you bring to the table and are ready to celebrate yourself at every milestone. Remember, if you can’t believe in yourself, why should anyone else?

Clap for your damn self. Don't wait for others to celebrate YOU. YOU gotta celebrate YOU.

34. Money is a Tool, Not the Goal

For a long time, I equated success strictly with financial achievement. More money meant more success, right? Over the years, I’ve flipped that viewpoint and come to see money as just a tool—certainly not the ultimate goal. Sure, it can offer freedom, security, and opportunity, but it doesn’t equal happiness, fulfillment, or purpose. Pursuing money for its own sake often leads to a hollow sense of achievement, leaving you questioning why joy seems elusive.

When you start perceiving money as a means rather than the final destination, your perspective on work, life, and success shifts dramatically. Money can facilitate your dreams and finance your passions, but it’s not what defines your worth or happiness. The goal is to use money to enhance your life, not allow it to dictate your decisions. Be intentional about how you earn, spend, and invest, aligning your financial choices with your values and priorities.

This mindset shift has freed me to work on what fulfills my spirit rather than merely chasing financial gain. It’s empowered me to cultivate a life rich in experiences, relationships, and purpose while acknowledging money's practical role in achieving these goals. Use money as a tool to craft the life you desire, but never let it shape your definition of success.

...and it was definitely a mindset shift because BABY, if had you said this to me when I was working three jobs and trying to put myself through school, I would have McSlap the shit out of you.

All jokes aside, it's also knowing how to manage your money and not be easily influenced by a well curated social feed.

Make your kind of beautiful.

35. Vulnerability is Strength

There was a time when I viewed vulnerability as a weakness—a trait to be hidden away to avoid judgment or rejection. However, my journey has shown me that vulnerability is one of the greatest strengths anyone can possess. It takes courage to be vulnerable, unveil our imperfect parts, admit we need help, or share our fears and struggles. Vulnerability lays the groundwork for genuine connection.

When you allow yourself to be vulnerable, you invite others to join you in that space. It enables you to build deeper, more authentic relationships since you’re presenting your true self, free of pretense. Vulnerability isn’t about oversharing or being emotionally exposed at all times; it’s about being authentic and acknowledging that you don’t always have it all together, and that’s okay. In those rare moments of honesty, we find our most extraordinary power.

Vulnerability is also where growth occurs. It pushes us to step into the unknown, take risks, and open ourselves to the potential of failure—yet it equally invites incredible rewards, such as deeper connections, significant personal growth, and a more authentic existence. Vulnerability doesn’t diminish your strength; it amplifies your bravery.

...and don't fake this for clout. Online or offline. People have great bullshit meters. 

Be authentic. Stay authentic.

If you've followed me for a while, you know I'll post the good, the bad, and the ugly.

36. Perfection is the Enemy of Progress

Perfectionism can often feel like a shiny badge of honor as we strive for the best and refuse to settle for anything less than flawless. But the reality is that perfectionism frequently holds us back. The quest for perfection can keep us stuck, terrified to take action until everything is aligned just right. It sets the stage for an unrealistic standard that’s impossible to reach, leading to frustration, procrastination, and crippling self-doubt. One of the most liberating lessons I’ve learned is that perfection is, in fact, the enemy of progress.

When you release the need to be perfect, you grant yourself permission to make mistakes, learn, and evolve. You find momentum and achieve real progress through taking action—however imperfectly—. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s progress. Whether small or flawed, each step draws you closer to your aspirations. Lingering in the pursuit of perfection only traps you in stagnation.

Learning to embrace imperfection has been a transformative experience for me. It’s given me the courage to take risks, explore new ideas, and gather momentum, even without figuring everything out. Perfection is a fantasy, while progress is genuine, tangible, and attainable. So stop waiting for the ideal moment, the perfect idea, or the perfect conditions. Let progress guide your path.

Where my Type A peoples at? *plays Jamaican horn*

Here's the thing. You're gonna give yourself a heart attack. I'm not joking. That's literally all it took for me. I'm not arguing with my doctor.

I can still strive to meet my standards, but it doesn't mean I've failed if the progress bar isn't at 100% each time.

I'm not worried if you find typos on this or any post. 
But I would be worried about you if you became fixated on it.

Zoom out, babe. 

37. Be Curious, Not Judgmental

It’s all too easy to jump to conclusions about people or situations, assuming we fully grasp their stories based on limited insights. But one of the most impactful lessons I’ve learned is that curiosity holds far more power than judgment. When you embrace life with curiosity, you unlock new perspectives, fresh ideas, and meaningful connections. Judgment closes doors; curiosity flings them wide open.

To be curious means asking questions and seeking understanding before rushing to an opinion. It’s about being receptive to the notion that you might not have all the answers and that there’s always something new to discover. When you approach others and situations with curiosity instead of judgment, you create opportunities for empathy and growth. You allow the possibility that there’s a depth to the story that you initially overlooked, and that’s where genuine connection flourishes.

Curiosity has taught me to look beyond the surface, investigate the motivations behind people’s actions or beliefs, and appreciate that everyone’s journey is distinct. Judgment may seem safe and secure, but curiosity cultivates deeper understanding and meaningful progress. So, the next time you find yourself leaning toward judgment, take a moment to pause and ask a question instead. Let curiosity lead you toward a richer, more empathetic existence.

Here try this the next time you feel the need to leave a nasty comment, ask yourself: 

- Why are you choosing to give your energy away like this?
- Are you adding to the discussion?
- Or are you just being an asshole?

One more. When it comes to any topic:

- Are you making assumptions based on emotions rather than facts or logic?
- Have you done enough research or know enough about the topic to add anything of value?
- Are you prepared to have your believes and assumptions challenged and can you respond in a civil manner?

What I'm saying is don't assume shit just because you saw a meme, heard a sound bite or saw a manipulated video posted for the sole purpose of causing chaos and irrational emotions. 

Basically, use common sense because not everything is what it seems.

38. Patience Really is a Virtue

Patience can sometimes feel like a relic of the past. Yet, one of the most essential lessons I’ve learned is that patience genuinely is a virtue. The best things in life often take time—whether it’s nurturing a meaningful career, building a strong relationship, or working on self-improvement. Patience is about trusting the process, even when results aren’t immediately visible.

Patience doesn’t equate to passive waiting; it involves staying committed to the journey, even when it feels slow or tough. It’s about recognizing that progress is often incremental and that rushing things rarely leads to desirable outcomes. Impatience can breed frustration, lead to poor choices, and even cause burnout. Patience, conversely, allows you to navigate life with more grace, resilience, and wisdom.

Learning to cultivate patience has deepened my resilience and brought me serenity regarding life’s natural flow. It’s taught me to believe that everything unfolds in its time and that waiting can carry its own value. Patience enables you to appreciate the journey, savor the little moments, and construct something enduring and meaningful. In a world in constant motion, patience truly becomes a superpower.

I believe this comes with age, time, and emotional intelligence. Instant gratification, Amazon Prime, and food delivery apps have really screwed us up TBH. Shit takes time. Drive a vintage VW and you'll know exactly what I'm talking about.

39. You’re Allowed to Change Your Mind

One of the most liberating lessons I’ve encountered is that you’re allowed to change your mind. No law states that yesterday’s decisions must shape today or tomorrow. Your priorities, beliefs, and desires may transform as you grow and evolve, and that’s absolutely fine. Changing your mind isn’t a sign of weakness or indecision; it’s a celebration of growth and self-awareness.

So often, we feel compelled to stick to what we've always known, even if it no longer serves us. But holding onto something simply for the sake of familiarity or out of fear of judgment from others stifles our potential. You’re perfectly entitled to shift your thoughts about your career, relationships, aspirations, or even your beliefs. Life is a constant ebb and flow, and so are you.

The beauty of changing your mind is that it allows you to correct your course and align with what feels right at the moment. It’s about being true to yourself and embracing the courage to pivot, even if changes feel unexpected or unpopular. So, give yourself the freedom to explore new avenues and welcome the transformations accompanying growth.

I'm a Libra. That's all you gotta know. No, but seriously. If something doesn't sit well with my spirit...

"Nah I'm not doing that."

40. Your Story is Worth Telling

Every story is unique, including yours. For a while, I doubted whether my experiences were worth sharing—who would genuinely care? Yet, I’ve come to see that we all possess stories that can profoundly touch others. Your story, complete with its ups and downs, triumphs, and challenges, is absolutely worth sharing. By sharing our narratives, we connect, inspire change, and foster a sense of community.

Your story doesn’t have to be extraordinary to hold value. Often, it’s the everyday moments that resonate most. The obstacles you’ve conquered, the lessons you’ve learned, and the growth you’ve undergone contribute to a broader narrative that can inspire and uplift those around you. You never know who might need to hear just what you have to share.

Telling your story is an act of bravery, vulnerability, and service. It provides others with a mirror into their journeys, reassuring them that they’re not alone. Don’t hesitate to voice your story. Your narrative matters, your experiences hold significance, and your journey deserves to be celebrated.

This is how we heal. This is how we grow. This is how we learn.

41. Sometimes, You Just Need to Laugh

Laughter is truly one of the best medicines! Over the years, I've realized that when life feels overwhelming or stressful, you only need a good laugh. It’s so easy to get tangled in the seriousness of daily responsibilities, deadlines, and challenges. But laughter? It breaks the tension, lifts your spirits, and offers a fresh perspective. Even in tough times, those little moments of joy can help you feel rooted and lighter amid life's weight.

Laughter isn’t merely about humor but embracing joy and seeing the lighter side. It reminds us that life doesn’t always need to be so serious. Mistakes happen, awkward moments arise, and setbacks are part of the journey—and that’s okay! Laughter connects us to our humanness, reminding us that we’re imperfect and learning as we go. It’s all about connecting in the moment and with those around us.

I’ve noticed that shared laughter can deepen relationships and create unforgettable memories. Whether you’re cracking jokes with friends, enjoying a hilarious movie, or even finding humor in your own missteps, laughter is a release that can shift your mood in the blink of an eye. So when life starts to feel heavy, remember: laughter won’t solve your problems but will make them a bit easier to bear.

I laugh a lot. I'm definitely a Muttley. After a long day or work week, I prefer to watch something that is so dumb it's brilliant. I'm also prone to breaking into song, non-sequiturs, or just be amazed at all the dumb shit that even smart people do. Yep, that includes me.

42. Success Takes Sacrifice

One of the most eye-opening truths I've discovered is that success demands sacrifice. It's easy to look at someone’s achievements and think it all came effortlessly, but behind every success story lies a series of tough decisions, trade-offs, and sacrifices. Whether it’s giving up time, comfort, or even relationships, the road to success often asks for more than we expect. While the rewards can be significant, it’s crucial to recognize that success comes with its own price.

Navigating these sacrifices starts with understanding what truly matters to you. Success can look different for everyone, and the sacrifices you’re willing to make should align with your core values and long-term dreams. If you find yourself sacrificing your health, happiness, or connections, maybe it’s time to reassess if the goal is genuinely worth it. Striking a balance is essential, and distinguishing between dedication and self-neglect is vital for lasting success and contentment.

While sacrifice is a part of the journey, it shouldn’t mean losing sight of what enriches your life. It’s about being intentional and strategic about what you choose to give up while ensuring you don’t overlook the things that bring you genuine joy. Success isn’t just a destination; it’s a continuous journey, and along that path, it’s important to make sacrifices that resonate with who you are and who you aspire to be.

So, if you've followed me for a while you can pretty much guess what my posting schedule is like. But, when life throws a curveball at me, I will put my needs first before keeping a schedule. The blog post might be posted on Wednesday instead of Monday or not at all. That means more cuddle time with the doggo on the couch and an iced chai latte. The world can wait.

43. Listen More Than You Speak

One of the most invaluable lessons I've learned is to listen more than I speak. Listening is a skill often underrated, yet it possesses immense power. When you genuinely listen—to yourself, others, and the world—you gain insights that talking alone can’t provide. Listening helps you connect deeper, promotes empathy, and encourages thoughtful responses.

Focusing on being heard, making your point, or offering advice is tempting. But sometimes, the greatest gift you can give is your undivided attention and the space for someone to be heard. Listening goes beyond just hearing words; it’s about understanding the emotions and motivations behind them. When you listen, you make others feel acknowledged, respected, and valued. This strengthens relationships and builds trust.

Listening also applies to your inner dialogue. We often get so busy talking, planning, or reacting that we neglect to hear our own intuition. Taking time for silence and reflection, tuning into your needs and desires, can provide clarity and guidance. So, embrace the transformative power of listening. It’ll help you become a better communicator, compassionate friend, and wiser decision-maker.

I'm still working on not interrupting someone when they are talking. I find that I get super excited and then want to talk, but it's been a hard habit to kick. I defintely don't do it as often as I used to, but I can always improve. You see? Not perfect.

44. Be Grateful for the Journey

We often fixate on the destination—achieving goals, hitting milestones, or crossing that finish line. Yet, one of the most important lessons I've internalized is to appreciate the journey itself. It’s in the ups and downs, the triumphs and setbacks, where real growth happens. The destination may reflect your aspirations, but the journey reveals who you truly are.

It’s easy to feel frustrated when plans fall through, or the path seems longer than anticipated. However, those unexpected detours, challenges, and memorable moments usually shape us most profoundly. They teach us resilience, patience, and adaptability, pushing us to evolve in ways we might never expect. Gratitude for the journey means cherishing every single step, even the tough ones, as they all contribute to the person you're becoming.

Shifting your focus from the destination to the journey will help you discover joy in everyday moments. Life isn’t just about racing to the next big thing; it’s about fully experiencing each day. The journey is where life unfolds, and embracing gratitude for it enables you to live with more presence, more peace, and a deeper appreciation for the beauty of each moment.

Maybe this is what comes with age, but when I was younger everything needed to be immediate and I rarely stopped to just enjoy the fact that I was going after something. Now I can look back and reflect on the lessons the journey gave me and less on the actual goal.

45. You Are a Work in Progress

One of the most comforting truths I’ve embraced is that I am a work in progress—just like you! There’s no final version of ourselves we’re sprinting toward. Life is all about constant growth, learning, and evolving. There will always be more to learn, more room for improvement, and new challenges ahead. Acknowledging this has allowed me to approach life gracefully and easily, freeing me from the pressure to figure everything out.

Being a work in progress means granting yourself permission to make mistakes, transform, and grow without judgment. It’s understanding that you don’t need to be perfect to be worthy and celebrating each step forward, no matter how small, as progress. It’s about embracing the beautiful truth that we are all unfinished, and that’s perfectly okay. Our journey is a continuous adventure of becoming.

This perspective has liberated me from the tyranny of perfectionism, allowing me to view my imperfections as part of my unique story. Remember, there’s no rush to reach some elusive “end point” because, in reality, there isn’t one. We constantly evolve, learn, and strive to be our best versions. So, give yourself the grace to be a work in progress. This lifelong journey is something to be celebrated at every turn.

I don't want to sound kinda morbid here, but you will do this until the day you die. There is always something you can improve. You're never done. Remember when Homer tried climbing the Murderhorn and then stopped because he thought he was done and then another peak appeared? Yeah it's like that. Also, you'll need more than Powersauce bars to get you through. 

Conclusion

Reflecting on these 45 lessons, I’m reminded that life isn’t a straightforward path—it’s a collection of moments, choices, challenges, and triumphs that shape us into who we are. Each lesson has been a stepping stone on my journey, revealing that the beauty of life lies in its complexity, filled with highs and lows, as we continue to grow and evolve with every experience.

These insights aren't just personal—they're universal. Whether you’re starting a new chapter or deep into the one you’re currently crafting, remember that these lessons remind us we’re all in a state of constant learning, growth, and evolution. Life isn’t just about perfection; it’s about progress. It’s about showing up each day, embracing the journey, and allowing yourself the grace to evolve at your own pace.

I hope these reflections inspire you to consider your own journey, celebrate the lessons learned, and look ahead with courage and an open heart. You are indeed a work in progress, and that’s just as it should be. Here’s to the next chapter—may it overflow with growth, joy, and vibrant living!

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