Everyone acts like I'm rich because I'm saving up for a house and want to pay as much as possible in cash. I've saved since I got my very first job at 14, also paid for 2 years of college in cash. I came from a pretty poor family so even my immediate family does that to me. I can say I have $30k and no one will know I have the WORST slumlord and live in a disgustingly dirty house where everything is broken, and the newest car I've ever owned is a 2009. I shop almost exclusively at Goodwill and Walmart. But on the flip side, my husband always reminds me of the people who "own" their homes, but one bad moment can make them lose it all because they have so much debt and a big mortgage, and I've seen it happen with my sister when my brother in law got in a bad accident. They managed, but it was ROUGH to keep that huge house. My sister sacrificed a lot in general. She got pregnant at 15, moved out at 18 and had multiple jobs to keep herself and my oldest nephew afloat, but she was on her own which I'm sure was a huge deal at that point.
I understood your point, but I think I personally need to say yes to more things and see what happens rather than relying on assumptions based on stereotypes or previous experiences and thinking that new is bad and old is good. I’m 24, and this my list: 1.All emotions are in motion, and should always be validated for they’re always telling you something 2. Friends are people with whom you can comfortably be yourself, who share similar interests, values and opinions but are different enough to challenge you and allow you grow together 3. The strongest friendship you should have is the one that you have with yourself 4. Your comfort zone is a nice place to be, but if it doesn’t challenge you it won’t change you 5. Don’t let your future be dictated by other people’s expectations 6. You can’t take things out of an empty container. Learn how take from others, and help them to help you. 7. Trust your gut 8. Me time isn’t wasted time 9. You can’t run away from your emotions, and the more you suppress them the more powerful they become 10. Negative comments tell you more about the person who says them than they do about you 11. Money can’t buy positivity 12. Anger contains energy that you can utilise to your advantage with which to do something positive 13. There’s no such thing as bad people, only undesirable behaviour 14. Don’t let people use you 15. There is such thing as being too nice 16. Unpleasant experiences can teach you valuable lessons 17. Time is precious, objects can be replaced 18. Helping those less fortunate than yourself helps you as well 19. Everyone has a different version of normality 20. Giving is often more rewarding than receiving 21. You see the end result but you don’t witness the journey 22. People need people 23. Boundaries are a must not a maybe 24. You can’t change what’s happened, or what the future may hold, only what you do, say and feel now
Michel, my husband and I are 45 and 38. We both love you and think you’re incredibly wise, introspective, and have a solid head on your shoulders. YES on healthy anger, and YES on communication. Both so important. You’re going to do so well in life. My husband and I are rooting for you!
Some things I've learned in my 27 years: 1. Nobody gets to set your boundaries except you 2. Actions speak louder than words. If someone says they're sorry or they care about you but they never act like it, their words are meaningless. 3. Don't get stuck on past goals, plans, or ideas of yourself. You're allowed to grow and change what you want. 4. The foundations of mental health are sleep, nutritious food, and exercise. 5. Most things that seem like a huge deal at the time don't matter in the future. When you're stressed, ask yourself if the thing you're stressing about will matter a year from now. 6. You can't always choose what happens to you in life, but you can choose how you respond.
WOW these are so great. Love the sleep, nutrition, and exercise. I am changing my whole relationship with food and it’s impacting me deeply and giving me more energy and motivation to move physically, which is giving me more restful and deeper sleep. It’s all connected and we are all connected too. Thank you 🙏
Girl, I did not expect this from a 25 year old. You have become so wise. I love you even more now. I'm 33 and you spoke to some weak points I need to tackle. Mind blown. You're a rare jewel ✨️
I got the notification that this video went live. I stopped cleaning my home, made a cup of coffee, and sat down. I use your postings as my reminder to take a moment for myself. I love your videos. I love your story. I was divorced at the age of 25. After 5 years of what I thought was a wonderful marriage I learned of many betrayals. I chose to walk away on my own terms. You’re not alone. This community loves you and supports you ♥️
This has me teary eyed. Thank you for sharing your story, it makes me feel so much less alone! Nothing worse than finding out hurtful things when you thought everything was going well. I love you friend, and I’m so glad you’re here.
Another important life lesson is the reality of friendships. It is perfectly healthy and normal to lose friendships, to cut people off, to move on, or just drift apart. Some friends are for life, but most come and go. Life isn't high school! You don't have to have a BFF, or just have same sex friends, same age friends. In reality, you will meet people from all over. Don't be afraid to make friends with people older, younger, opposite sex etc. Adult friendships aren't the same as school friendships. You can have a close friend you only see once every few months.
This is so true. Some people are there for certain seasons I feel like. I’ve had to let a friend go. She was my closest friend. It was hard. But I also had to know my worth and know that friends should stick by you in the times you need them the most, not abandon you.
Would love to see you react to older vlogs from that time and share the “behind the scenes” of how you were really feeling! It’s genuinely so good to see you THRIVING through this hardship
Thank you for sharing your wisdom so openly with us. I’m twice your age (+1 year) and constantly learn from you. Your experiences make me want to be more brave! A couple of my tidbits: 1. Someone else’s crisis cannot become yours, especially if you want to help. 2. Lead with kindness. 3. Each of us is more than the worst thing we’ve ever done. -Bryan Stevenson 4. Life is a rollercoaster; just when you think you’ve got it figured out there will be another hill or dip. 5. Be the friend that you wish you had. 6. Reality Check! I realized so many things after birthing my daughter (who is now 18.5 yrs old), particularly what people don’t tell you about childbirth, newborns, and parenting. I decided to be the Reality Check friend and shared the realities that many don’t share (to those who asked). A biggie is that caring for a baby/toddler (physical exhaustion) is much easier than the complexities of tweens and teens (physical/mental/emotional exhaustion).
Yes, #1 is a huge lesson! It can be hard for an empath, but you can’t try to be the hero in everyone’s story. It’s a lot to bear that crisis when you have your own life to manage as well. I’ve had to learn this lesson the hard way.
Another life lesson I learned, which is both a light-hearted and heavy lesson, is that people are oblivious. On one hand, that's great, because nobody actually notices when you mess up or the last time you embarrassed yourself. But that's also a hard lesson. People are oblivious to your inner thoughts and feelings, unless you explicitly tell them. (Except my mum, she notices everything! 😂)
A really hard lesson I learned in my 30s is that, not everyone who you’re loyal to, deserves your loyalty. Including family. I have been loving your journey through these choppy waters and your authenticity and genuine spirit have been so uplifting. Thank you for being such a bright light. Love and many blessing to you sweet girl! 💜
💝Loved this video of your journey. I agree with it all. I learnt, at age 25, that this is best time of my life, I am 66 now. My 25th year, was my highlight, that now, I am a brave beautiful woman. Fully mature. Everything, is now, uphill. When I look back, at when I discovered this, on my 25th, 3/19/1956, I was right! Everything, spiraled uphill for me. My thoughts, sincerity, my beauty, Love, Compassion, Joy, Physically and emotionally. I found God's Love for me at 26. I had 3-4 jobs at once, because everyone wanted me to work for them. I married at age 29. First child at 30. then 3 more when I was 33 & 35. Life was beautiful. Now I look back, and love sharing my wisdom to the younger youth, with great respect! I love you! Brigitte in Tulsa Oklahoma.🥰
My main life lesson is that suffering doesn't make you stronger. You hear it everywhere, 'what doesn't kill you makes you stronger' and I've learned to realise that isn't true. Suffering, heartache, tragedy, illness, they don't make you strong. You make you strong. Your kindness, calmness, clarity, motivation, confidence, trust and everything in between makes you strong. At least that's my opinion.
I’ve only recently started following you and I can’t explain how comforting your videos are. I love how you’re sharing your life through this hardship but yet being so positive of your new life. You help me have a better outlook at my life. Thank you for being you & I hope this new chapter brings you better and brighter things!
These are all great life lessons Michel. The biggest life lesson I've learned is that it's okay to cut off toxic family members and set boundaries to protect your own wellbeing. It took me so long to realize this, due to said family member being extremely manipulative and constantly gaslighting me. Once I set boundaries, I felt a huge weight being lifted off my shoulders. Just because a person is related to you by blood, doesn't mean they are owed a spot in your life.
hey Michel, I am a recent follower - I came when you started sharing about divorce and have stuck around because you are so captivating. To have learned all this and be so introspective and growing in godly wisdom at such a young age tells me God has great plans for your life. I appreciate your intent and your vulnerability and I also struggle with many of the same behaviours you have, people pleasing, boundaries, not believing myself worthy of love... its such a journey and you verbalising it helps others. so thank you kind lady, I see your sincere heart and felt to share it with you. x
"Regret is a thief. It's not the framework we should be operating from. You win or you learn, but you never lose." I read this in an Instagram post and it really resonated with me.
100% I agree, block them! Unfriend, mute, silence, restrict, whatever you have to do for yourself. Same goes with movies, shows, songs, artists etc. If something makes you feel worse, don't do it! Don't be tempted! Don't watch the movie if it will make you sad, and stay in your brain for too long. Skip the sad songs, the tragic movies.
I'll also add that many people assumed my husband and I have a perfect relationship, but in reality, we struggled for many years and even came close to divorce about 3 years ago. When you enter a relationship young, you either grow together or grow apart. There were many bumps along the way before we got to where we are now. We definitely never know what is going on behind the scenes.
Hey Michel...you are a wise, remarkable young woman...I'm still learning these lessons and I'm 63! And I appreciate you...happy birthday too! In regards to #9, this is why God doesn't want us to compare ourselves to others; you truly don't know their story. And it can leave you feeling less than. Even if you have nothing compared to others, God provides what you truly need.
Michel, by far this was one of my favorites, I can relate to 8,12,14,16, and 18. I feel the growth during this season of your life is definitely from God for you to use your platform to help all of us going through similar life challenges. I am 71 and you my sweet young friend has helped me so much. Thank you and I am glad I am following the new Michel. You are so encouraging and honest I just wish I had known someone like you 50 years ago.
Have a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY! - I'm turning 40 this year and I am so excited for what is to come. So many people are living fulfilling and exciting lives as they get older and I love collecting others' wisdom along the way (including yours). So here's cheers for everyone and their futures!!
A lesson I have learned: “Embrace the gray in life.” I am a very black and white thinker and I am learning that there may not always be a right or wrong way of doing things. So embracing the gray and in between is so important. ❤️ Love you, and your videos!
Moved to Texas from Wisconsin to save my marriage. Sacrificed my comfort zone and my family. Now my husband and I have a daughter and our own family. I still miss home so so much but I am grateful for what I have now. Thank you so much for sharing your life...I've been able to walk away learning some things from you. Seriously thank you.
I’m 28, going on 29 this year and I have just been doing a lot of reflecting since I’m coming onto my last year in my 20s, and I’ve realized your 20s are tough. You do so much growing and learning during your 20s and so many changes happen. I’ve still loved my 20s, but I’m excited for my next season of life as well in my 30s. You are so inspiring and I appreciate your vulnerability! Thank you for sharing your life with us through the highs and lows. 💕
Michel, thank you for sharing these with us. I definitely had to learn #21 the hard way. Here are a few other things I’ve learned: 1) You can’t reason with unreasonable people; 2) You can’t help those who don’t want to be helped; 3) Don’t allow other people’s poor decisions and actions become an excuse for your own; 4) You never truly know what someone’s relationship is like behind closed doors; appearances can be deceiving.🙏🏻❤️
Although you’re about 20 years younger than me, finding your channel has inspired me! I relate to you in so many ways, from your server stories to your relationship and self betrayals to you finding and becoming “you” again to your faith in God. I wanted to send you a message of encouragement and appreciation. You’re a bright light!💕
These open chats really show how much growth you have done and gone through. You are sooo mature and you are a role model for me a 15 year old. You are amazing ❤️
One thing I’m constantly telling my friends and sister “NO is a full sentence” you never have to explain your decisions, your choices, or your reasoning behind how you feel or what you do, if you don’t want to.
I appreciate these chats so much! Thank you. ❤️ One of the lessons I’ve learned is to take time for myself. As a stay at home mum I just keep going and forget to take a proper break and just be me, the person I was before becoming “mum”. The last couple of weeks I’ve noticed how I’ve become short and easily irritated and angry so I decided to take today of. Currently sat in a café in town, on my own, watching this video. It’s exactly what I needed and hopefully I’ll be a better mum when I pick up my son from school in a few hours. Laundry can wait, it’s not like it’s going anywhere. It may grow, indefinitely it seems but it will be there when I get back to it.
Michel, every one of these things are so important to hear. It shows what you have accomplished in such a short time. I spent 26 years of my life being miserable, being angry and based who I was in the eyes of someone else, I saw no value in myself. This person broke me, but you know what? God rebuilt me. It has taken years to see, God full field his promise if I would trust in him, all things are possible. God has given me back 10 fold of what was literally stolen from me, the thief may have stolen things and people, but he couldn’t steal my God and his plan he had for me. Today, I find my value in Christ, I speak up when I find myself not being treated in a way I feel is right. If there are people or situations I’m not comfortable with, I distance myself, I follow my intuition, which is a gift from the Holy Spirit. If I am in a situation that is negative and my intuition is saying run don’t walk. I walk away, with no trying to prove my side, or getting emotional, I just walk away, that is power right there. Please note: I spent a lot of time crying in private, many times I have been on my face screaming I can’t do this anymore, and I imagine God saying are you through? I thought you trusted me? Am I perfect did and do I respond in anger now? I mess up everyday because I am human and I am flawed. By Grace, I get through these times by Grace I am forgiven, now I have to work on forgiving myself. Wishing you many blessings, and a wonderful day.
“You have nothing to lose by believing the best.” I can’t entirely agree with this one. I dismissed a whole bunch of red flags with someone because I only wanted to believe the best in them. He took advantage of that and manipulated me, which lead to many years of heartache in a loveless, one-sided relationship. What I know now, that I didn’t realize then, is that when people show you who they are, believe them. Don’t believe in their future potential to be a decent, civil human being. People tend to reveal things about themselves at the start if you pay close attention. It’s better to walk away and be disappointed than to spend many precious years of your life with someone and be devastated. That said, there are certainly times when giving grace to others is warranted or when minor offenses can be overlooked. Thank you for distinguishing between healthy and unhealthy anger. That was definitely an Aha moment for me❤
Good lessons. It’s like we are all learning the same lessons, clearing judgments, and finding peace. Only, it’s happening at different times and under different circumstances. Took me 45 years to learn what you learned at 25. I’m an enneagram 6 so, stressed I go to 3. I understand your struggles and pain. You’ve come so far!
I learned that some people's version of friendship does not always align with mine. I am still learning and internalizing that that is ok without feeling bitter or wishing for more than someone can give. I am also learning to take a step back from the friendships that don't align with what I want out of friendships.
When moving to a new city you can either choose to be the same and not reach out to others, or do what you're doing! Just say hi to a neighbor, ask someone for their number, reach out first, etc. When I moved to a new city, I realized I was actually capable of these things when I never thought I was! It's an amazing realization.
Being vulnerable, true, and authentic is very freeing. I don't have many subscribers yet. But I get so much off my heart by being vulnerable with my audience. So very true. My quiet introvert self has a lot of journaling to do this evening. So many profound statements and things I desire to work on in myself from your little beautiful inspirational self! ✨️
Michel, I am a fairly new subscriber, in a very different part of my life. I’m a 51 yr old wife and mum of 2 grown children (27 & 26 years) Currently battling my 3rd brush with breast cancer, Live in the U.K. I found your channel because it popped up and it was about your divorce. I started following you because even though your life and struggles are so different to mine I still learn from you and can empathise with your situation. I loved this 25 life lessons. I actually think I will save this video so I can return to it often. Bless you Michel for your honesty and sharing. You are doing great and even though I haven’t followed you for long I can see a stronger and happier young woman, you truly are blossoming in front of our eyes. Have a beautiful birthday when you special day comes around this month. Xx
Happy birthday month! It’s my birthday month too. ☺️ I just started watching this video and was thinking about number 1 on the list: trust your gut. I used to pride myself in having sharp senses and good intuition but after experiencing a ton of trauma (in my 43 years) I’ve developed an anxiety disorder which I manage by pairing my gut instinct with logical questions such as “do I know this to be true or am I just afraid of it coming true?” Unfortunately my gut alone can’t always be trusted anymore. 😊 Life can be very confusing and difficult to navigate and what I’ve learned is what used to work for me won’t always work for me. I would say a lesson I could share for my birthday is: “I trust myself to move forward as I continue to learn and grow.” When I am afraid of what might happen if I do/don’t do this or that, this seems to put me at ease and calm my fears. Dori said it best: “just keep swimming” so I do.☺️ I hope you have a super month - thank you for sharing all your love and wisdom. 🥰🎉💝
You’re such an amazing person. In the past few months I’ve seen so much growth from you. You look so much happier and especially healthier. Your kindness, authenticity, wisdom and love is what makes us come back. We’re all here for you, even if it’s just to listen. 😊💜
Thanks for being you. So proud of being part of the community you are wise and spiritually blessed to be so open to learning and keep growing. Truly love you Michel.
I believe anger doesn’t necessarily require action, but it is your body trying to protect you from something it perceives as dangerous. So maybe it does give you the courage to create space or set a boundary, it doesn’t have to be firing back, but bunkering down and taking some time to make yourself feel safe again. I appreciate your vulnerability in this video 💛
You are so spot on when it comes to seeing what everyone has and not their sacrifices. I recently got a comment from someone who thought my husband and I had a lot of money because we bought a new car right after buying a house, but the reality is that my husband and I lived in small apartments for 15 years prior and we shared one car for many years as well. And even now money is still tight with "having it all" because we also love to travel. But we also try to limit eating out or only shop sales and do a lot of couponing.
I love this Michel! 💕 I grew up very quiet and timid. As I got older, probably more in the past few years, I push myself outside my comfort zone to grow. I try to make eye contact with strangers, acknowledge them with a smile smile or hello (something a lot of people aren't into SMH), or just open the door for them. I also try to be more vocal about my feelings and how appreciative I am for people's help like customer service personnel. It learned that it doesn't hurt to express how much they've helped me and that I appreciate it. It also uplifts them too (win win). I also learned to speak up (respectfully) on something that didn't work out and why so that it can be fixed. Lastly, I can also relate to showing love by gifting. I'm huge on that! I like to make my husband, family and friends feel loved when I get them something (big or small) something personable and of their liking/style instead of something meaningless. At first I would get negatively affected when it wasn't reciprocated but I realized that these acts should come from the heart and it's not required so it's silly to have ill feelings if it's not reciprocated.
Hi! Thank you for sharing those. They are so helpful to hear. My most important lesson that I learned was "it isn't a true love unless they are willing to sacrifice something just for you".
Michel, You just brighten our day.... Your light is bright and truly you are a gift to many, such a young lady yet wise beyond her years- spoken from a near 60 year old Grandmother who wants to tell you how WORTHY and PROUD I am of you! such a warrior spirit thru the past year, I/we felt your depth of pain prior to your sharing it with us, prayed you starting that day, to see you now, WOW! THANK YOU LORD FOR ANSWERING MY/OUR PRAYERS for this precious child of yours.
And sometimes "bad things" will be your biggest blessings! When I was in my active alcoholism it was horrible and there were days I didn't want to live another moment, but without it, I wouldn't have found this person I am today in recovery!
When I was 25 I had no idea who I was, what I would do with the rest of my life, know you save for something bad. I am almost 57 and I save when I can, have 2 businesses and live in a house in Las Vegas with my husband of almost 4 years. Our children are 2 cats. At 25 I was living in a boat on San Diego Bay. I’ve learned that people are nice most of the time and you attract the type of person you want to be. You have a long life ahead of you and you will grow and change and it’s going to be ok. ❤️❤️
A life lesson that I learned the hard way is not trusting everyone you meet, especially coworkers. I've had some wonderful coworkers in the past, but some not so nice and have tried to make me look bad. I do believe generally believe what you said about seeing the best in people. But we are always called to love people, but it doesn't mean we have to trust them.
Michel - this is an amazing video. I think it may be the best one I have seen you do. There are so many things you touched on that I can relate to.. Very wise for 25!!!! Thank you for sharing so openly and sincerely. I so look forward to each and every one of your videos. You are making the world a more beautiful, wonderful place for so many. You are the hands and feet of God at work every day!
This video hit me in the feels 🥺 this is supposed to be your story Michel, you're so strong. I went through a horrible break up a few years ago and it was one of the worst things that I ever went through. But the relationship was not good at all... and what I realized is some of the worst things that happen in our lives are some of the best. I wouldn't change who I am now or where I'm at now for the world!
I've said this in your comment section in other videos that because of serious illness issues in 2019 my whole life changed as well as my family's life (hubby and twin 9 year olds). I'm trying to work through this grieving for what was and be ok with what is. So many of your lessons learned I am or need to learn too. It's been therapeutic following you on your journey and showing you support and allowing myself time and patience with myself through my journey. Thank you for being so open and honest. It really gives me and others hope and strength.
I must say Michel you have learned alot & have shown so much growth in just the few months I've been watching your vlogs!! I'm so proud of you!! You've shown so much maturity & generosity by sharing what you've been through & learned!! I wish I had written down years ago the things I learned the way you just did. I keep journals recording what I go through @ the time & even though I know what I learned from it I never identified it point by point. That's healthy & helpful. When I do start to journal again I will be identifying things I've learned & put them in LARGE PRINT. I know that as we age & grow we are still learning. Prayers & Wishes Lisa Hampton 😃
"you have nothing to lose by believing the best" - there's always the chance of disappointment and by believing the best you are being hopeful and setting high expectations and that's highly likely to lead to disappointments and heartbreaks.
You told us 25 things that you've learned and your videos are more than just telling us they're making us aware of ourselves or at least myself LOL. I want to thank you for sharing your life and I want to thank you for sharing this. You're truly my favorite RUclipsr. I always say that when I comment but I can't help it you are amazing. Thank you for being you.
I listen to you in your videos and often I wish that I was around more people like you. You truly have wisdom and maturity beyond your years. This video speaks to me on so many levels in so many of my relationships with family and friends... And sometimes all we need is to know that another person gets it...and you get it. I can relate especially to when you speak about the anger that causes you to take action but not sin, not being a chronic people pleaser so that you're used by the people in your life, not aligning your value with your achievements as though without them you are less and undeserving, etc... Even though you're enduring the hurt of divorce you're so strong and tenacious. Thank you for your vulnerability and thank you for sharing! You're touching lives and I'm praying for you.
Another great life lesson: older does not necessarily equal wiser. You have to be open to learning, either through your own actions or learning from others. Thank YOU for being willing to share. Even though I am nearly 20 years older than you, so many of these lessons hit home for me! I appreciate you. 💗
Hi, Michel and happy Wednesday!😊😊😊😊😊😎☀. I'm turning 34 on the next month of April with two action movies all together!🎉⭐🎉⭐🎉⭐🎉⭐🎉👍. And I am so happy for myself with these two awesome movies will become a non-stop action ride!💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐👍
Michel, you unlocked a dream in me that I thought was so long gone by saying “you have nothing to lose by believing the best”. There are other things mentioned that I loved such as being open to conversation and having those hard conversations instead of turning your head and hoping the problem will solve itself, but lesson 13 😭❤️ Omg, I just feel very inspired and ready to give this dream of mine a life; so thank you!
You are more mature than most women your age. I feel your kindness, love and pain. I’ve learned that although we think we have settled in, we have not. Life ebbs and flows, ever changing. Hanging on to the past is refusing to grow even with extreme pain. Future Machel will look back and understand you were very young and that in particular life lesson God had a reason for you to be there. Hold true to your beliefs and truths. You are a rare commodity in the current world today. God bless and comfort you.
My friends & I often share "Lessons we've learned (or re-learned)" with each other. This is usually a couple of times a month (sometimes weekly). This practice provides plenty of ah-ha and oh-right moments! ♥️
Biggest Life Lesson: The only time I was ever truly fearless was when the desire for an experience outweighed any possibility of fear. 💕. Honored to be here with you as well.
You. Are. Amazing. I found your channel only a few weeks ago, but can already see your heart and growth in what must have been a horrible season. Your 25 takeaways prove you will rise above it all and be stronger for it. If you still need practice in talking to strangers and having conversations, come to Nebraska. People will approach you first and become an instant friend!
This was a beautiful. Thanks for sharing. You’re very wise. I have learned that no matter what life brings my way that I must trust God to work it all out for my good. I learned that being loving wins every time. You could never EVER lose win you’re loving. I’ve learned to let go of anything and anyone that don’t serves my highest good or if I can’t serve their highest. I learned no matter what…I need to always be myself. I’ve learned that I’m HSP and a empath. In this life we will all have trials and tribulations. So, no matter how perfect someone else’s life looks. They are fighting a battle just like me. I’ve learn that I’m a introvert.
Hi Michel, I always wake up to my serenity prayer art, and it reminds me things will happen, but it's our attitude that will determine how we internalize or make peace with things. I also live by life can be a lesson or a blessing, but that lesson can turn into your blessing.
I love this ! Thank you so much ! ❤️ I’m 25 too and learn so much this year, I love the part where u said “you are worthy of affection”, I give a lot this year as-well and really…. It’s everyone’s turn to do something in return for you …for once but also at the same time don’t expect anything back. It’s just unhealthy to treat it like I need to prove myself to others that I care about u, when I can do that out of actions and also I’m not blind when they are not being genuine aswell … That feels good to let that comment out 😂❤️
You are so wise beyond your years. It has taken me twice as long to learn a lot of these important life lessons. I know you will always thrive in life and you deserve all the success and happiness in life. I’m twice your age and going through a divorce (one of my biggest fears too). I’ve enjoyed sharing your journey. I wish all good and beautiful things for you always.
Hi Michel. So oddly enough we are both 25 and your birthday is a day before mine ♓ 💕 not that our age or birthdays have anything to do with this but I just love how articulate and wise you are. You have given me hope that it is possible to be beautiful on the inside and out. I'm currently struggling with self-care and self-love because like you, I'm such a people pleaser and I can't help it. That's just naturally who I am. I love to see a smile on people's face and know that I did that but at the same it's not worth it if I'm only hurting myself in the end and that is something I learned through hard times as well. Anyways, I'm still struggling with the thought of being "perfect" in my own way if that makes sense. I feel like I'm a wise, articulate person myself which makes me feel like being beautiful on the outside is not obtainable for me. But when I see you, I'm like "She's beautiful, articulate, and successful" and I tell myself there's nothing wrong with that. It's OK to feel like a badass because I am! Lol. I've earned it dammit and I'm currently working on being OK with being myself which might intimidate people but oh well. At this point, my happiness comes first because I'd rather please myself and make myself happy than please others only for them to still feel unpleased or unsatisfied and that is a lesson I learned within my 25 years of life. So thank you for being so awesome and I hope nothing but the best for you. You deserve it. You're so beautiful on the inside and out any man shouldn't feel intimidated but should look at you and be like "Dang, she's smart, beautiful, funny AND successful?!" Like who wouldn't want that? I just thought I'd let you know 💕 you 😊
Very wholesome video with very good points. I can’t believe you’re only going to be 25, some people don’t realize these until they’re much, much older! I definitely know what you mean about the most uncomfortable hurtful situation happening makes you not care at all about what you previously thought was uncomfortable to do. Been there for sure! Love this video. 💕
I always want to show my brother this video because he needs some good in his heart. He thinks people are out to get him like not really that but we grew up without a mall and just have my dad he only knew what his parents taught him. It was really just abusive. My little brother always got a lot of negativity growing up Ida to do but he fell into a deep depression when he was in high school until I figured it out and help him when he was in his early twenties he holds onto a lot of stuff. I used to bring it to church with me but it's a little too far to go to pick him up and it made him so happy and it wasn't like therapy. It was only a Wednesday night dinner church thing but I'm starting to think if I did not work on Sundays I would go to church and bring him with me I wish that I could find may be at church on Wednesdays. You are so positive and amazing inspirational. Thank you for everything you put out there.
I loved your lessons learned. I have learned to listen to my body. If something feels off go to the doctor. Just go. My kids teach me lessons everyday all day and I swear if I didn’t want to tell someone I’d have a list. Mostly they are more resilient than I know sometimes. God knew I needed to be humbled so he gave me children. Thank goodness, I need them.
So wise. I learned many of these lessons a lot later in life than Michel. And it is something that saddens me deeply 🥺 So much wasted time, missed experiences, opportunities… Glad Michel has realised now and is thriving.
I am definitely going to re-watch this video again and again. I learnt so many important things from what you have shared here. Thank you for being vulnerable, open and honest. It is very important that people keep learning life lessons no matter how old they are.
Another life lesson - you will mess up, you will make mistakes, you could hurt people. And whilst that in itself isn't OK, you can't expect to go through life without any mistakes. The key is being big enough to admit when you're wrong, and apologise and mean it. Everyone messes up, but not everyone is able to admit it and face the consequences.
This video reminds me of a book called the five love languages. When you have time if you haven’t please read it. I didn’t know how to love my husband and he didn’t know how to love me until we read it. Now our relationship is so much better because I know what makes me happy and so does he. It’s also reciprocated. It’s important to know how you want to be loved and your partner. I know it’s probably way off for you but it’s good to read as a single person as well to understand yourself better.
I love this, very much the same things I’ve learned in my 25 years as well. It takes a minds shift to really put them into practices, keep being awesome! 🤗 One of the biggest thing I’ve been preached by other Christians that has taken awhile to grab hold of is that God doesn’t say you get to be a doormat for everyone else. And I think that’s huge, especially for people pleasers like you and I. We don’t have to put up with everything and God doesn’t want us to!
Amen! I had a friend who once said to me - Jeannee, you're walking around like I used to: with a big WELCOME sign on your forehead! You know - walk right in, wipe your dirty feet all over my face ....
Holding your feelings inside and not confronting someone or something just makes you stressed and sick. You are verysmart for your age and have grown so much.
Love this!!! I've watched you since you were planning your wedding, it's been such an honor to be on this journey with you. I knew you weren't sharing everything but also knew that you have life outside of telling everyone everything you're going through. It's up to you what you share, and whatever you decide that is, the right people will stay 💗
"better is the enemy of good", sometimes we try to make something better and we don't realize how good is already and by doing so, we make it even worse
So I will be 35 March 18 and I have been watching you since your divorce video (it came across my suggestions for some reason) and this video has truly made me reflect back on my last 10 years. I remember something changed in me at 25 where I felt like I was a real adult and I was ready to truly grow up. In those 10 years I have gotten married, started two businesses and had 2 beautiful little girls and 25 just seems like it wasn’t that long ago. I have truly loved watching your journey and I hope your next 10 years (and beyond) are as wonderful as mine have been ❤️
As I sat here listening to your last comment a song came into my mind and I think it very much fits with what you are going through right now. It is called “Something Beautiful”. The chorus is ‘Something beautiful, something good. All my confusion He understood. All I had to offer Him was brokenness and strife, but He made something beautiful of my life’. If you want to hear it all search for Gaither Vocal Band “Something Beautiful”. May God bless you abundantly today and everyday.
The one main lesson I learned by 45 was you only have one shot at this life, an unknown finite number of years. Be kind and respectful (you are) but never tolerate disrespect or give your years to appease another. Those years of yours are the gift God has given, and for non-religious, which the universe has given you. Own them and love them. I woke and found my husband dead when I was 41. Last night I saw a 35 yr old woman walking down the street (sidewalk was all snow) get hit and die in a puddle of blood in front of me. It was so horrific. 😢 One second and there is no more time for her, no warning. I hope she lived her short 35 years for her, no regrets or waste, because I know so many who don't learn that until far older. Make choices which make you feel happy & fulfilled, not what you think another wants your choice to be. If they love you, they want that for you, for you to live your finite years with all the joy you can get. If you live a happy, beautiful life, that brings the most joy to others who matter most. 💖
“You see what everyone has, but not what everyone sacrifices”. LOVE that and it’s so so so true
Everyone acts like I'm rich because I'm saving up for a house and want to pay as much as possible in cash. I've saved since I got my very first job at 14, also paid for 2 years of college in cash. I came from a pretty poor family so even my immediate family does that to me. I can say I have $30k and no one will know I have the WORST slumlord and live in a disgustingly dirty house where everything is broken, and the newest car I've ever owned is a 2009. I shop almost exclusively at Goodwill and Walmart. But on the flip side, my husband always reminds me of the people who "own" their homes, but one bad moment can make them lose it all because they have so much debt and a big mortgage, and I've seen it happen with my sister when my brother in law got in a bad accident. They managed, but it was ROUGH to keep that huge house. My sister sacrificed a lot in general. She got pregnant at 15, moved out at 18 and had multiple jobs to keep herself and my oldest nephew afloat, but she was on her own which I'm sure was a huge deal at that point.
@@exwhy5867 damn that quote applies so much to you and your sister. Best of luck on that house i hope you get it very soon❤️
YES, I have never heard this articulated so clearly before
I’m so glad this resonated with you 🤍
I understood your point, but I think I personally need to say yes to more things and see what happens rather than relying on assumptions based on stereotypes or previous experiences and thinking that new is bad and old is good.
I’m 24, and this my list:
1.All emotions are in motion, and should always be validated for they’re always telling you something
2. Friends are people with whom you can comfortably be yourself, who share similar interests, values and opinions but are different enough to challenge you and allow you grow together
3. The strongest friendship you should have is the one that you have with yourself
4. Your comfort zone is a nice place to be, but if it doesn’t challenge you it won’t change you
5. Don’t let your future be dictated by other people’s expectations
6. You can’t take things out of an empty container. Learn how take from others, and help them to help you.
7. Trust your gut
8. Me time isn’t wasted time
9. You can’t run away from your emotions, and the more you suppress them the more powerful they become
10. Negative comments tell you more about the person who says them than they do about you
11. Money can’t buy positivity
12. Anger contains energy that you can utilise to your advantage with which to do something positive
13. There’s no such thing as bad people, only undesirable behaviour
14. Don’t let people use you
15. There is such thing as being too nice
16. Unpleasant experiences can teach you valuable lessons
17. Time is precious, objects can be replaced
18. Helping those less fortunate than yourself helps you as well
19. Everyone has a different version of normality
20. Giving is often more rewarding than receiving
21. You see the end result but you don’t witness the journey
22. People need people
23. Boundaries are a must not a maybe
24. You can’t change what’s happened, or what the future may hold, only what you do, say and feel now
Michel, my husband and I are 45 and 38. We both love you and think you’re incredibly wise, introspective, and have a solid head on your shoulders. YES on healthy anger, and YES on communication. Both so important. You’re going to do so well in life. My husband and I are rooting for you!
This means so much. Tell your husband I say thank you to both of you! I’m honored that you’re here 🤍
Some things I've learned in my 27 years:
1. Nobody gets to set your boundaries except you
2. Actions speak louder than words. If someone says they're sorry or they care about you but they never act like it, their words are meaningless.
3. Don't get stuck on past goals, plans, or ideas of yourself. You're allowed to grow and change what you want.
4. The foundations of mental health are sleep, nutritious food, and exercise.
5. Most things that seem like a huge deal at the time don't matter in the future. When you're stressed, ask yourself if the thing you're stressing about will matter a year from now.
6. You can't always choose what happens to you in life, but you can choose how you respond.
WOW these are so great. Love the sleep, nutrition, and exercise. I am changing my whole relationship with food and it’s impacting me deeply and giving me more energy and motivation to move physically, which is giving me more restful and deeper sleep. It’s all connected and we are all connected too. Thank you 🙏
Girl, I did not expect this from a 25 year old. You have become so wise. I love you even more now. I'm 33 and you spoke to some weak points I need to tackle. Mind blown. You're a rare jewel ✨️
I got the notification that this video went live. I stopped cleaning my home, made a cup of coffee, and sat down. I use your postings as my reminder to take a moment for myself. I love your videos. I love your story. I was divorced at the age of 25. After 5 years of what I thought was a wonderful marriage I learned of many betrayals. I chose to walk away on my own terms. You’re not alone. This community loves you and supports you ♥️
This has me teary eyed. Thank you for sharing your story, it makes me feel so much less alone! Nothing worse than finding out hurtful things when you thought everything was going well. I love you friend, and I’m so glad you’re here.
march babys!
I didn't know a lot of girls that have the same birth month like me!
Another important life lesson is the reality of friendships. It is perfectly healthy and normal to lose friendships, to cut people off, to move on, or just drift apart. Some friends are for life, but most come and go. Life isn't high school! You don't have to have a BFF, or just have same sex friends, same age friends. In reality, you will meet people from all over. Don't be afraid to make friends with people older, younger, opposite sex etc. Adult friendships aren't the same as school friendships. You can have a close friend you only see once every few months.
This is BEAUTIFULLY said 🤍
This is so true. Some people are there for certain seasons I feel like. I’ve had to let a friend go. She was my closest friend. It was hard. But I also had to know my worth and know that friends should stick by you in the times you need them the most, not abandon you.
Do true most of my friends are older than me.
Would love to see you react to older vlogs from that time and share the “behind the scenes” of how you were really feeling! It’s genuinely so good to see you THRIVING through this hardship
Yes, great idea!
Oh that could be so interesting!!!! Thank you friend 🤍
I think you should just keep moving forward. I fear going back would be hurtful for you.
Thank you for sharing your wisdom so openly with us. I’m twice your age (+1 year) and constantly learn from you. Your experiences make me want to be more brave!
A couple of my tidbits:
1. Someone else’s crisis cannot become yours, especially if you want to help.
2. Lead with kindness.
3. Each of us is more than the worst thing we’ve ever done. -Bryan Stevenson
4. Life is a rollercoaster; just when you think you’ve got it figured out there will be another hill or dip.
5. Be the friend that you wish you had.
6. Reality Check! I realized so many things after birthing my daughter (who is now 18.5 yrs old), particularly what people don’t tell you about childbirth, newborns, and parenting. I decided to be the Reality Check friend and shared the realities that many don’t share (to those who asked). A biggie is that caring for a baby/toddler (physical exhaustion) is much easier than the complexities of tweens and teens (physical/mental/emotional exhaustion).
Yes, #1 is a huge lesson! It can be hard for an empath, but you can’t try to be the hero in everyone’s story. It’s a lot to bear that crisis when you have your own life to manage as well. I’ve had to learn this lesson the hard way.
What a beautiful video! I appreciate you Michel🌻
Another life lesson I learned, which is both a light-hearted and heavy lesson, is that people are oblivious. On one hand, that's great, because nobody actually notices when you mess up or the last time you embarrassed yourself. But that's also a hard lesson. People are oblivious to your inner thoughts and feelings, unless you explicitly tell them. (Except my mum, she notices everything! 😂)
YESSS THIS 😂👏🏻
You could write a book! Your wisdom continues to amaze and inspire me! 💛
A really hard lesson I learned in my 30s is that, not everyone who you’re loyal to, deserves your loyalty. Including family.
I have been loving your journey through these choppy waters and your authenticity and genuine spirit have been so uplifting. Thank you for being such a bright light. Love and many blessing to you sweet girl! 💜
💝Loved this video of your journey. I agree with it all. I learnt, at age 25, that this is best time of my life, I am 66 now. My 25th year, was my highlight, that now, I am a brave beautiful woman. Fully mature. Everything, is now, uphill. When I look back, at when I discovered this, on my 25th, 3/19/1956, I was right! Everything, spiraled uphill for me. My thoughts, sincerity, my beauty, Love, Compassion, Joy, Physically and emotionally. I found God's Love for me at 26. I had 3-4 jobs at once, because everyone wanted me to work for them. I married at age 29. First child at 30. then 3 more when I was 33 & 35. Life was beautiful. Now I look back, and love sharing my wisdom to the younger youth, with great respect! I love you! Brigitte in Tulsa Oklahoma.🥰
My main life lesson is that suffering doesn't make you stronger. You hear it everywhere, 'what doesn't kill you makes you stronger' and I've learned to realise that isn't true. Suffering, heartache, tragedy, illness, they don't make you strong. You make you strong. Your kindness, calmness, clarity, motivation, confidence, trust and everything in between makes you strong. At least that's my opinion.
I love this
I’ve only recently started following you and I can’t explain how comforting your videos are. I love how you’re sharing your life through this hardship but yet being so positive of your new life. You help me have a better outlook at my life. Thank you for being you & I hope this new chapter brings you better and brighter things!
These are all great life lessons Michel. The biggest life lesson I've learned is that it's okay to cut off toxic family members and set boundaries to protect your own wellbeing. It took me so long to realize this, due to said family member being extremely manipulative and constantly gaslighting me. Once I set boundaries, I felt a huge weight being lifted off my shoulders. Just because a person is related to you by blood, doesn't mean they are owed a spot in your life.
Boundaries are hard but so essential, arent they?! I applaud your strength and wisdom 🤍
@@MichelJanse thank you ❤
hey Michel, I am a recent follower - I came when you started sharing about divorce and have stuck around because you are so captivating. To have learned all this and be so introspective and growing in godly wisdom at such a young age tells me God has great plans for your life. I appreciate your intent and your vulnerability and I also struggle with many of the same behaviours you have, people pleasing, boundaries, not believing myself worthy of love... its such a journey and you verbalising it helps others. so thank you kind lady, I see your sincere heart and felt to share it with you. x
"Regret is a thief. It's not the framework we should be operating from. You win or you learn, but you never lose." I read this in an Instagram post and it really resonated with me.
You are very wise for 25. Im 63 and l realized some life lessons from you just now.
Same!
100% I agree, block them! Unfriend, mute, silence, restrict, whatever you have to do for yourself. Same goes with movies, shows, songs, artists etc. If something makes you feel worse, don't do it! Don't be tempted! Don't watch the movie if it will make you sad, and stay in your brain for too long. Skip the sad songs, the tragic movies.
I love these sit down girly chats . Literally like listening to a dear friend 🤗🤗🤗
🥺🤍
@@MichelJanse 🤗🤗🤗
I'll also add that many people assumed my husband and I have a perfect relationship, but in reality, we struggled for many years and even came close to divorce about 3 years ago. When you enter a relationship young, you either grow together or grow apart. There were many bumps along the way before we got to where we are now. We definitely never know what is going on behind the scenes.
Hey Michel...you are a wise, remarkable young woman...I'm still learning these lessons and I'm 63! And I appreciate you...happy birthday too! In regards to #9, this is why God doesn't want us to compare ourselves to others; you truly don't know their story. And it can leave you feeling less than. Even if you have nothing compared to others, God provides what you truly need.
I'm 62 and totally agree!
Michel, by far this was one of my favorites, I can relate to 8,12,14,16, and 18. I feel the growth during this season of your life is definitely from God for you to use your platform to help all of us going through similar life challenges. I am 71 and you my sweet young friend has helped me so much. Thank you and I am glad I am following the new Michel. You are so encouraging and honest I just wish I had known someone like you 50 years ago.
Have a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY! - I'm turning 40 this year and I am so excited for what is to come. So many people are living fulfilling and exciting lives as they get older and I love collecting others' wisdom along the way (including yours). So here's cheers for everyone and their futures!!
A lesson I have learned: “Embrace the gray in life.” I am a very black and white thinker and I am learning that there may not always be a right or wrong way of doing things. So embracing the gray and in between is so important. ❤️
Love you, and your videos!
Moved to Texas from Wisconsin to save my marriage. Sacrificed my comfort zone and my family. Now my husband and I have a daughter and our own family. I still miss home so so much but I am grateful for what I have now. Thank you so much for sharing your life...I've been able to walk away learning some things from you. Seriously thank you.
I’m 28, going on 29 this year and I have just been doing a lot of reflecting since I’m coming onto my last year in my 20s, and I’ve realized your 20s are tough. You do so much growing and learning during your 20s and so many changes happen. I’ve still loved my 20s, but I’m excited for my next season of life as well in my 30s.
You are so inspiring and I appreciate your vulnerability! Thank you for sharing your life with us through the highs and lows. 💕
Michel, thank you for sharing these with us. I definitely had to learn #21 the hard way. Here are a few other things I’ve learned: 1) You can’t reason with unreasonable people; 2) You can’t help those who don’t want to be helped; 3) Don’t allow other people’s poor decisions and actions become an excuse for your own; 4) You never truly know what someone’s relationship is like behind closed doors; appearances can be deceiving.🙏🏻❤️
Although you’re about 20 years younger than me, finding your channel has inspired me! I relate to you in so many ways, from your server stories to your relationship and self betrayals to you finding and becoming “you” again to your faith in God. I wanted to send you a message of encouragement and appreciation. You’re a bright light!💕
These open chats really show how much growth you have done and gone through. You are sooo mature and you are a role model for me a 15 year old. You are amazing ❤️
This means so much. Thank you for choosing to hang with me 🥰🥰
PLEASE write all of these down and get them published! It would make a great book.
One thing I’m constantly telling my friends and sister “NO is a full sentence” you never have to explain your decisions, your choices, or your reasoning behind how you feel or what you do, if you don’t want to.
Oh I need this reminder DAILY🤍👏🏻
You are definitely one of the wisest 25 year olds that I know. Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us in such a genuine way🥰
I appreciate these chats so much! Thank you. ❤️
One of the lessons I’ve learned is to take time for myself. As a stay at home mum I just keep going and forget to take a proper break and just be me, the person I was before becoming “mum”. The last couple of weeks I’ve noticed how I’ve become short and easily irritated and angry so I decided to take today of. Currently sat in a café in town, on my own, watching this video. It’s exactly what I needed and hopefully I’ll be a better mum when I pick up my son from school in a few hours.
Laundry can wait, it’s not like it’s going anywhere. It may grow, indefinitely it seems but it will be there when I get back to it.
Michel, every one of these things are so important to hear. It shows what you have accomplished in such a short time.
I spent 26 years of my life being miserable, being angry and based who I was in the eyes of someone else, I saw no value in myself. This person broke me, but you know what? God rebuilt me. It has taken years to see, God full field his promise if I would trust in him, all things are possible.
God has given me back 10 fold of what was literally stolen from me, the thief may have stolen things and people, but he couldn’t steal my God and his plan he had for me.
Today, I find my value in Christ, I speak up when I find myself not being treated in a way I feel is right.
If there are people or situations I’m not comfortable with, I distance myself, I follow my intuition, which is a gift from the Holy Spirit. If I am in a situation that is negative and my intuition is saying run don’t walk. I walk away, with no trying to prove my side, or getting emotional, I just walk away, that is power right there.
Please note: I spent a lot of time crying in private, many times I have been on my face screaming I can’t do this anymore, and I imagine God saying are you through?
I thought you trusted me? Am I perfect did and do I respond in anger now? I mess up everyday because I am human and I am flawed. By Grace, I get through these times by Grace I am forgiven, now I have to work on forgiving myself.
Wishing you many blessings, and a wonderful day.
“You have nothing to lose by believing the best.” I can’t entirely agree with this one. I dismissed a whole bunch of red flags with someone because I only wanted to believe the best in them. He took advantage of that and manipulated me, which lead to many years of heartache in a loveless, one-sided relationship. What I know now, that I didn’t realize then, is that when people show you who they are, believe them. Don’t believe in their future potential to be a decent, civil human being. People tend to reveal things about themselves at the start if you pay close attention. It’s better to walk away and be disappointed than to spend many precious years of your life with someone and be devastated. That said, there are certainly times when giving grace to others is warranted or when minor offenses can be overlooked. Thank you for distinguishing between healthy and unhealthy anger. That was definitely an Aha moment for me❤
I had my whole family watch this. Such good things for teens to hear. Your positive and healthy outlooks keep us coming back to watch more ❤️
Good lessons. It’s like we are all learning the same lessons, clearing judgments, and finding peace. Only, it’s happening at different times and under different circumstances. Took me 45 years to learn what you learned at 25. I’m an enneagram 6 so, stressed I go to 3. I understand your struggles and pain. You’ve come so far!
I learned that some people's version of friendship does not always align with mine. I am still learning and internalizing that that is ok without feeling bitter or wishing for more than someone can give. I am also learning to take a step back from the friendships that don't align with what I want out of friendships.
When moving to a new city you can either choose to be the same and not reach out to others, or do what you're doing! Just say hi to a neighbor, ask someone for their number, reach out first, etc. When I moved to a new city, I realized I was actually capable of these things when I never thought I was! It's an amazing realization.
Being vulnerable, true, and authentic is very freeing. I don't have many subscribers yet. But I get so much off my heart by being vulnerable with my audience. So very true. My quiet introvert self has a lot of journaling to do this evening. So many profound statements and things I desire to work on in myself from your little beautiful inspirational self! ✨️
Michel, I am a fairly new subscriber, in a very different part of my life. I’m a 51 yr old wife and mum of 2 grown children (27 & 26 years) Currently battling my 3rd brush with breast cancer, Live in the U.K. I found your channel because it popped up and it was about your divorce. I started following you because even though your life and struggles are so different to mine I still learn from you and can empathise with your situation. I loved this 25 life lessons. I actually think I will save this video so I can return to it often.
Bless you Michel for your honesty and sharing. You are doing great and even though I haven’t followed you for long I can see a stronger and happier young woman, you truly are blossoming in front of our eyes.
Have a beautiful birthday when you special day comes around this month. Xx
Happy birthday month! It’s my birthday month too. ☺️ I just started watching this video and was thinking about number 1 on the list: trust your gut. I used to pride myself in having sharp senses and good intuition but after experiencing a ton of trauma (in my 43 years) I’ve developed an anxiety disorder which I manage by pairing my gut instinct with logical questions such as “do I know this to be true or am I just afraid of it coming true?” Unfortunately my gut alone can’t always be trusted anymore. 😊 Life can be very confusing and difficult to navigate and what I’ve learned is what used to work for me won’t always work for me. I would say a lesson I could share for my birthday is: “I trust myself to move forward as I continue to learn and grow.” When I am afraid of what might happen if I do/don’t do this or that, this seems to put me at ease and calm my fears. Dori said it best: “just keep swimming” so I do.☺️ I hope you have a super month - thank you for sharing all your love and wisdom. 🥰🎉💝
You’re such an amazing person. In the past few months I’ve seen so much growth from you. You look so much happier and especially healthier. Your kindness, authenticity, wisdom and love is what makes us come back. We’re all here for you, even if it’s just to listen. 😊💜
Thanks for being you. So proud of being part of the community you are wise and spiritually blessed to be so open to learning and keep growing. Truly love you Michel.
I believe anger doesn’t necessarily require action, but it is your body trying to protect you from something it perceives as dangerous. So maybe it does give you the courage to create space or set a boundary, it doesn’t have to be firing back, but bunkering down and taking some time to make yourself feel safe again. I appreciate your vulnerability in this video 💛
You are so spot on when it comes to seeing what everyone has and not their sacrifices. I recently got a comment from someone who thought my husband and I had a lot of money because we bought a new car right after buying a house, but the reality is that my husband and I lived in small apartments for 15 years prior and we shared one car for many years as well. And even now money is still tight with "having it all" because we also love to travel. But we also try to limit eating out or only shop sales and do a lot of couponing.
I love this Michel! 💕
I grew up very quiet and timid. As I got older, probably more in the past few years, I push myself outside my comfort zone to grow. I try to make eye contact with strangers, acknowledge them with a smile smile or hello (something a lot of people aren't into SMH), or just open the door for them. I also try to be more vocal about my feelings and how appreciative I am for people's help like customer service personnel. It learned that it doesn't hurt to express how much they've helped me and that I appreciate it. It also uplifts them too (win win). I also learned to speak up (respectfully) on something that didn't work out and why so that it can be fixed. Lastly, I can also relate to showing love by gifting. I'm huge on that! I like to make my husband, family and friends feel loved when I get them something (big or small) something personable and of their liking/style instead of something meaningless. At first I would get negatively affected when it wasn't reciprocated but I realized that these acts should come from the heart and it's not required so it's silly to have ill feelings if it's not reciprocated.
Also can't help but feel how much mom and dad feel proud of you and your revelations
Hi! Thank you for sharing those. They are so helpful to hear. My most important lesson that I learned was "it isn't a true love unless they are willing to sacrifice something just for you".
Michel, You just brighten our day.... Your light is bright and truly you are a gift to many, such a young lady yet wise beyond her years- spoken from a near 60 year old Grandmother who wants to tell you how WORTHY and PROUD I am of you! such a warrior spirit thru the past year, I/we felt your depth of pain prior to your sharing it with us, prayed you starting that day, to see you now, WOW! THANK YOU LORD FOR ANSWERING MY/OUR PRAYERS for this precious child of yours.
And sometimes "bad things" will be your biggest blessings! When I was in my active alcoholism it was horrible and there were days I didn't want to live another moment, but without it, I wouldn't have found this person I am today in recovery!
When I was 25 I had no idea who I was, what I would do with the rest of my life, know you save for something bad. I am almost 57 and I save when I can, have 2 businesses and live in a house in Las Vegas with my husband of almost 4 years. Our children are 2 cats.
At 25 I was living in a boat on San Diego Bay. I’ve learned that people are nice most of the time and you attract the type of person you want to be.
You have a long life ahead of you and you will grow and change and it’s going to be ok. ❤️❤️
A life lesson that I learned the hard way is not trusting everyone you meet, especially coworkers. I've had some wonderful coworkers in the past, but some not so nice and have tried to make me look bad. I do believe generally believe what you said about seeing the best in people. But we are always called to love people, but it doesn't mean we have to trust them.
Michel - this is an amazing video. I think it may be the best one I have seen you do. There are so many things you touched on that I can relate to.. Very wise for 25!!!! Thank you for sharing so openly and sincerely. I so look forward to each and every one of your videos. You are making the world a more beautiful, wonderful place for so many. You are the hands and feet of God at work every day!
This video hit me in the feels 🥺 this is supposed to be your story Michel, you're so strong.
I went through a horrible break up a few years ago and it was one of the worst things that I ever went through. But the relationship was not good at all... and what I realized is some of the worst things that happen in our lives are some of the best. I wouldn't change who I am now or where I'm at now for the world!
The point about giving and feeling like you have to do something in return made my brain explode. Wow. Thank you.
I've said this in your comment section in other videos that because of serious illness issues in 2019 my whole life changed as well as my family's life (hubby and twin 9 year olds). I'm trying to work through this grieving for what was and be ok with what is. So many of your lessons learned I am or need to learn too. It's been therapeutic following you on your journey and showing you support and allowing myself time and patience with myself through my journey. Thank you for being so open and honest. It really gives me and others hope and strength.
I must say Michel you have learned alot & have shown so much growth in just the few months I've been watching your vlogs!! I'm so proud of you!! You've shown so much maturity & generosity by sharing what you've been through & learned!! I wish I had written down years ago the things I learned the way you just did. I keep journals recording what I go through @ the time & even though I know what I learned from it I never identified it point by point. That's healthy & helpful. When I do start to journal again I will be identifying things I've learned & put them in LARGE PRINT. I know that as we age & grow we are still learning. Prayers & Wishes Lisa Hampton 😃
"you have nothing to lose by believing the best" - there's always the chance of disappointment and by believing the best you are being hopeful and setting high expectations and that's highly likely to lead to disappointments and heartbreaks.
You told us 25 things that you've learned and your videos are more than just telling us they're making us aware of ourselves or at least myself LOL. I want to thank you for sharing your life and I want to thank you for sharing this. You're truly my favorite RUclipsr. I always say that when I comment but I can't help it you are amazing. Thank you for being you.
On the topic of “mean people aren’t happy”, I always think of the phrase that “hurt people hurt people”. It helps me to have empathy when I need to.
I listen to you in your videos and often I wish that I was around more people like you. You truly have wisdom and maturity beyond your years. This video speaks to me on so many levels in so many of my relationships with family and friends... And sometimes all we need is to know that another person gets it...and you get it. I can relate especially to when you speak about the anger that causes you to take action but not sin, not being a chronic people pleaser so that you're used by the people in your life, not aligning your value with your achievements as though without them you are less and undeserving, etc... Even though you're enduring the hurt of divorce you're so strong and tenacious. Thank you for your vulnerability and thank you for sharing! You're touching lives and I'm praying for you.
Another great life lesson: older does not necessarily equal wiser. You have to be open to learning, either through your own actions or learning from others. Thank YOU for being willing to share. Even though I am nearly 20 years older than you, so many of these lessons hit home for me! I appreciate you. 💗
Hi, Michel and happy Wednesday!😊😊😊😊😊😎☀. I'm turning 34 on the next month of April with two action movies all together!🎉⭐🎉⭐🎉⭐🎉⭐🎉👍. And I am so happy for myself with these two awesome movies will become a non-stop action ride!💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙💙⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐👍
Michel, you unlocked a dream in me that I thought was so long gone by saying “you have nothing to lose by believing the best”. There are other things mentioned that I loved such as being open to conversation and having those hard conversations instead of turning your head and hoping the problem will solve itself, but lesson 13 😭❤️ Omg, I just feel very inspired and ready to give this dream of mine a life; so thank you!
You are more mature than most women your age. I feel your kindness, love and pain. I’ve learned that although we think we have settled in, we have not. Life ebbs and flows, ever changing. Hanging on to the past is refusing to grow even with extreme pain. Future Machel will look back and understand you were very young and that in particular life lesson God had a reason for you to be there. Hold true to your beliefs and truths. You are a rare commodity in the current world today. God bless and comfort you.
My friends & I often share "Lessons we've learned (or re-learned)" with each other. This is usually a couple of times a month (sometimes weekly). This practice provides plenty of ah-ha and oh-right moments! ♥️
Biggest Life Lesson: The only time I was ever truly fearless was when the desire for an experience outweighed any possibility of fear. 💕. Honored to be here with you as well.
You. Are. Amazing.
I found your channel only a few weeks ago, but can already see your heart and growth in what must have been a horrible season.
Your 25 takeaways prove you will rise above it all and be stronger for it.
If you still need practice in talking to strangers and having conversations, come to Nebraska. People will approach you first and become an instant friend!
What a giving, open, and vulnerable sharing. Happy birthday month
This was a beautiful. Thanks for sharing. You’re very wise. I have learned that no matter what life brings my way that I must trust God to work it all out for my good. I learned that being loving wins every time. You could never EVER lose win you’re loving. I’ve learned to let go of anything and anyone that don’t serves my highest good or if I can’t serve their highest. I learned no matter what…I need to always be myself. I’ve learned that I’m HSP and a empath. In this life we will all have trials and tribulations. So, no matter how perfect someone else’s life looks. They are fighting a battle just like me. I’ve learn that I’m a introvert.
Hi Michel,
I always wake up to my serenity prayer art, and it reminds me things will happen, but it's our attitude that will determine how we internalize or make peace with things. I also live by life can be a lesson or a blessing, but that lesson can turn into your blessing.
I love this ! Thank you so much ! ❤️
I’m 25 too and learn so much this year, I love the part where u said “you are worthy of affection”, I give a lot this year as-well and really…. It’s everyone’s turn to do something in return for you …for once but also at the same time don’t expect anything back. It’s just unhealthy to treat it like I need to prove myself to others that I care about u, when I can do that out of actions and also I’m not blind when they are not being genuine aswell …
That feels good to let that comment out 😂❤️
You are so wise beyond your years. It has taken me twice as long to learn a lot of these important life lessons. I know you will always thrive in life and you deserve all the success and happiness in life. I’m twice your age and going through a divorce (one of my biggest fears too). I’ve enjoyed sharing your journey. I wish all good and beautiful things for you always.
Hi Michel. So oddly enough we are both 25 and your birthday is a day before mine ♓ 💕 not that our age or birthdays have anything to do with this but I just love how articulate and wise you are. You have given me hope that it is possible to be beautiful on the inside and out. I'm currently struggling with self-care and self-love because like you, I'm such a people pleaser and I can't help it. That's just naturally who I am. I love to see a smile on people's face and know that I did that but at the same it's not worth it if I'm only hurting myself in the end and that is something I learned through hard times as well. Anyways, I'm still struggling with the thought of being "perfect" in my own way if that makes sense. I feel like I'm a wise, articulate person myself which makes me feel like being beautiful on the outside is not obtainable for me. But when I see you, I'm like "She's beautiful, articulate, and successful" and I tell myself there's nothing wrong with that. It's OK to feel like a badass because I am! Lol. I've earned it dammit and I'm currently working on being OK with being myself which might intimidate people but oh well. At this point, my happiness comes first because I'd rather please myself and make myself happy than please others only for them to still feel unpleased or unsatisfied and that is a lesson I learned within my 25 years of life. So thank you for being so awesome and I hope nothing but the best for you. You deserve it. You're so beautiful on the inside and out any man shouldn't feel intimidated but should look at you and be like "Dang, she's smart, beautiful, funny AND successful?!" Like who wouldn't want that? I just thought I'd let you know 💕 you 😊
Very wholesome video with very good points. I can’t believe you’re only going to be 25, some people don’t realize these until they’re much, much older!
I definitely know what you mean about the most uncomfortable hurtful situation happening makes you not care at all about what you previously thought was uncomfortable to do. Been there for sure! Love this video. 💕
No one deserves to be treated badly. Don’t let others gaslight you into believing you deserve their abuse.
You are such an inspiration and I appreciate you bringing little bits of joy to my day when you upload a video. Thank you for being you!
I always want to show my brother this video because he needs some good in his heart. He thinks people are out to get him like not really that but we grew up without a mall and just have my dad he only knew what his parents taught him. It was really just abusive. My little brother always got a lot of negativity growing up Ida to do but he fell into a deep depression when he was in high school until I figured it out and help him when he was in his early twenties he holds onto a lot of stuff. I used to bring it to church with me but it's a little too far to go to pick him up and it made him so happy and it wasn't like therapy. It was only a Wednesday night dinner church thing but I'm starting to think if I did not work on Sundays I would go to church and bring him with me I wish that I could find may be at church on Wednesdays. You are so positive and amazing inspirational. Thank you for everything you put out there.
100% we are growing with you ♥️ and so happy and grateful to be with you on your journey
The wisdom that flows out of you … how are you only 25?! I just love you and your channel ❤️
I loved your lessons learned. I have learned to listen to my body. If something feels off go to the doctor. Just go. My kids teach me lessons everyday all day and I swear if I didn’t want to tell someone I’d have a list. Mostly they are more resilient than I know sometimes. God
knew I needed to be humbled so he gave me children. Thank goodness, I need them.
So wise. I learned many of these lessons a lot later in life than Michel. And it is something that saddens me deeply 🥺 So much wasted time, missed experiences, opportunities… Glad Michel has realised now and is thriving.
I am definitely going to re-watch this video again and again. I learnt so many important things from what you have shared here.
Thank you for being vulnerable, open and honest. It is very important that people keep learning life lessons no matter how old they are.
You are so wise beyond your 25 years. I am sorry for your pain but the changes look beautiful on you..
Words of wisdom!!! I'm so glad you are feeling so much better trough the ups and downs of life.
Another life lesson - you will mess up, you will make mistakes, you could hurt people. And whilst that in itself isn't OK, you can't expect to go through life without any mistakes. The key is being big enough to admit when you're wrong, and apologise and mean it. Everyone messes up, but not everyone is able to admit it and face the consequences.
I genuinly wish you all the best in life, you are just a soul of sunshine and you deserve it all! 💕💕
This video reminds me of a book called the five love languages. When you have time if you haven’t please read it. I didn’t know how to love my husband and he didn’t know how to love me until we read it. Now our relationship is so much better because I know what makes me happy and so does he. It’s also reciprocated. It’s important to know how you want to be loved and your partner. I know it’s probably way off for you but it’s good to read as a single person as well to understand yourself better.
I love this, very much the same things I’ve learned in my 25 years as well. It takes a minds shift to really put them into practices, keep being awesome! 🤗
One of the biggest thing I’ve been preached by other Christians that has taken awhile to grab hold of is that God doesn’t say you get to be a doormat for everyone else. And I think that’s huge, especially for people pleasers like you and I. We don’t have to put up with everything and God doesn’t want us to!
Amen! I had a friend who once said to me - Jeannee, you're walking around like I used to: with a big WELCOME sign on your forehead! You know - walk right in, wipe your dirty feet all over my face ....
Holding your feelings inside and not confronting someone or something just makes you stressed and sick. You are verysmart for your age and have grown so much.
Love this!!! I've watched you since you were planning your wedding, it's been such an honor to be on this journey with you.
I knew you weren't sharing everything but also knew that you have life outside of telling everyone everything you're going through.
It's up to you what you share, and whatever you decide that is, the right people will stay 💗
"better is the enemy of good", sometimes we try to make something better and we don't realize how good is already and by doing so, we make it even worse
This list is really good. Your maturity is astounding.
So I will be 35 March 18 and I have been watching you since your divorce video (it came across my suggestions for some reason) and this video has truly made me reflect back on my last 10 years. I remember something changed in me at 25 where I felt like I was a real adult and I was ready to truly grow up. In those 10 years I have gotten married, started two businesses and had 2 beautiful little girls and 25 just seems like it wasn’t that long ago. I have truly loved watching your journey and I hope your next 10 years (and beyond) are as wonderful as mine have been ❤️
As I sat here listening to your last comment a song came into my mind and I think it very much fits with what you are going through right now. It is called “Something Beautiful”. The chorus is ‘Something beautiful, something good. All my confusion He understood. All I had to offer Him was brokenness and strife, but He made something beautiful of my life’. If you want to hear it all search for Gaither Vocal Band “Something Beautiful”. May God bless you abundantly today and everyday.
The one main lesson I learned by 45 was you only have one shot at this life, an unknown finite number of years. Be kind and respectful (you are) but never tolerate disrespect or give your years to appease another. Those years of yours are the gift God has given, and for non-religious, which the universe has given you. Own them and love them. I woke and found my husband dead when I was 41. Last night I saw a 35 yr old woman walking down the street (sidewalk was all snow) get hit and die in a puddle of blood in front of me. It was so horrific. 😢 One second and there is no more time for her, no warning. I hope she lived her short 35 years for her, no regrets or waste, because I know so many who don't learn that until far older. Make choices which make you feel happy & fulfilled, not what you think another wants your choice to be. If they love you, they want that for you, for you to live your finite years with all the joy you can get. If you live a happy, beautiful life, that brings the most joy to others who matter most. 💖