Celebrating Me: Embracing My 35th Birthday with a New Tradition

On Friday, I turn 35! For a long time, celebrating my birthday just didn’t feel like me. In fact, I used to work on my birthday and not tell a soul it was even happening. If you know me as someone who loves being on stage, this might sound a little strange, right? But it’s true. The idea of making my birthday a big deal felt uncomfortable, even though I genuinely loved celebrating others.

When I started my business, though, something shifted. I decided that if I was going to create a space where I could thrive, I needed to start by celebrating myself—and that included my birthday. So, I came up with a new tradition.

How I Started Celebrating Myself

Every year, I host a fundraiser to mark my business anniversary, which also happens to fall close to my birthday. But when it comes to my actual birthday, I block off the day just for me. I spend the day doing whatever makes me happiest, no work allowed.

The first year I did this, I had a photoshoot with my friend Marikate and my best friend Joclyn. It was such a fun way to mark the day and celebrate who I was at that moment. Since then, I've kept up the tradition. Some years, it’s been a spa day with a massage and a mani-pedi. Other years, I’ve treated myself to a quiet lunch at my favorite spot—whatever feels right for me in that moment.

This Year: A Repeat of the Tradition

This year, it will be more of the same. I’m looking forward to taking a full day to relax, recharge, and just focus on me. It’s a chance to reflect, unwind, and feel gratitude for the person I’ve become, the lessons I’ve learned, and the growth I’ve experienced.

Your Challenge: Celebrate You, Anytime

But here’s the thing: You don’t have to wait until your birthday to celebrate yourself. You deserve moments of joy and celebration all year long. So, I challenge you today to think of one thing you can do just for YOU this week. It doesn’t need to be extravagant or elaborate. It can be something small—a peaceful walk in nature, treating yourself to a delicious meal, or even carving out time to indulge in a hobby you love.

This is about YOU and making time for the things that bring you happiness. You deserve to be celebrated every single day, and sometimes, the best way to show yourself love is by taking time to do what makes your heart sing.

So, what will you do for yourself today?