I get the birthday-sads too, I know a few people who do as well. I think it’s normal to assess our station in life when our birthdays roll around again, especially after 30. I, too, wish I had achieved more by now or worked harder, made different decisions, but we cannot go back in time. Mourning could-have-beens is okay, but don’t let it consume you, you have agency and autonomy now and can only change your future.

Try and look forward to the celebrations you have on today, and enjoy yourself. Life is ultimately full of ups and downs, stops and starts, and it’s okay to feel that you may not be at the same place as your peers, but it isn’t something to beat yourself up about. We each go through life at different speeds, and that’s okay! You’re an awesome, kind, and funny person, I’m sure you bring happiness and joy to the people who know you.