When I was a kid, I never understood why some people were so worried about turning 30, probably because the number just seemed so far away from my 20-something self. Now that I am in my 30s, I finally realise the concerns that come with getting “old”.
While there’s no denying that turning 30 comes with an increasing burden of financial and relationship responsibilities, every cloud has a silver lining ‒ we can always learn from our mistakes and journey in life.
As such, we spoke to five female millennials to find out what they have learnt from their past selves.
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Images courtesy of Jou
“I turned 30 a year ago, and honestly, it didn’t seem like there was anything different other than having to update my IC photo. On a more serious note, my 20s went by in a blur and if I could change anything, I’d want to have been more adventurous in doing things outside of my comfort zone.
Since I was living in South Korea at that point in time, I didn’t explore much of the country, and only visited places that I was familiar with. I wish I had done more solo travelling and even signed up for ski classes because I simply can’t do so in Singapore.
Now that I’ve hit the big 3-0, I realise it is much harder to try new things because of commitments like work and financial responsibility. While I make it a point not to let them hold me back, I’ve come up with a solution ‒ to do things and learn new skills whenever time allows.
After all, you only get to live once, and I’d much rather live with no regrets.”
– Jou, 30
Images courtesy of Qian Yi
“I’ll be turning 30 in two years’ time, and before I enter the 30s club, I’m learning to focus more on my well-being, health, and improving my skin condition.
The reason is that I know really good-looking people who age gracefully. Apart from genes, it has to be a lot of intentional work from years ago ‒ whether sticking to a workout routine or using the right skincare products.
While I regret not figuring out what products worked the best for me earlier, I’m glad that I’m doing so now. For instance, I finally understand the benefits of using skincare products that incorporate Vitamin C in the day and night. Since the ingredient helps to target skin concerns such as dull skin tone, I hope to use more of these products in my skincare routine in the future.
Sadly, many people perceive those in their 30s as “old”, but I think that is subjective. Everyone will eventually turn 30 one day, and instead of living in denial, embrace it and make the most of life.”
– Qian Yi, 28
Images courtesy of Jia Yi
“I don’t look forward to turning 30 because I feel that I have to hit certain milestones. For instance, there is an unspoken expectation that you should have at least $100,000 in your bank account.
Since we are now considered “grown” adults, we are also often compared to our parent’s generation when they were 30 ‒ they already had a family or a successful career.
However, I understand that everyone has their own timelines, and I shouldn’t be comparing myself with others. That said, I have realised over the years that I should spend more time on what matters and take good care of my health.
Rather than worrying about hitting expectations set by society, I have been focusing on improving my back and stamina, which deplete with age.”
– Jia Yi, 29
Images courtesy of Renae
“There isn’t any moment in life that I wish to start over, but I wish I could meet my younger self ‒ just to shake her to her senses, and tell her not to get so caught up in things that aren’t that deep. However, everything happens for a reason, and I do feel my hardships were character-building arcs that I had to go through to emerge wiser and more emotionally resilient.
The greatest lesson I’ve learnt is to avoid sweating the small stuff and consider if it will make any difference a year down the road. Most of the time, the things that I almost freaked out over turn out to be something I won’t even remember just two months later. As a chronic worrier and pessimist my whole life, adopting a more zen mindset was a lifesaver.
To those who are also turning 30 soon, I’d say to be proud of yourself for coming this far.
Take stock of all your learnings because lessons come from hardship. The silliest thing you can do is allow yourself to feel restricted by your age. If anything, you should feel empowered by the fact that you’ve been on this Earth for three decades and counting. Look at the wealth of knowledge and experience you’ve attained! What a slay!”
– Renae, 28
Images courtesy of Janice
“The best part about turning 30 is gaining the mindset of not giving a hoot about things that don’t matter to me. As a born people-pleaser, I’ve always found it challenging to draw boundaries and say “no”. But now, it is easier to express myself and turn down commitments that I don’t enjoy.
Most recently, I spoke up to a secondary school classmate, who suddenly added me to a group chat for casual discussions. However, knowing that the chat would include conversations I wouldn’t participate in, I told him that I’d like to be removed from the group, and he respected my decision.
The old me would probably be afraid of offending him, but now, I’ve learned to prioritise myself.
On the other hand, turning 30 has made me realise my fears about the future, especially since I am single and childless. It worries me that I might have to fight life’s battles alone in the years to come.
Nonetheless, I’m grateful for the opportunity to pursue my dream career, which involves landing a job in the media and marketing industry. I plan to continue working hard to achieve my goals and share with others that it is never too late to pursue your dreams.”
– Janice, 31
Through the responses shared by these millennials, it appears that turning 30 isn’t as daunting as we imagine ‒ far too many of us subject ourselves to society’s definition of “old”.
Instead, the steps we take into turning 30 are learning journeys, allowing us to gain knowledge and develop new life perspectives. Additionally, as highlighted by Qian Yi, starting early before turning 30 with the right skincare products can contribute to graceful ageing.
To get a headstart and prevent premature ageing, consider using Dr. Wu’s Glutalight C Intensive Brightening Serum and Glutalight C Intensive Brightening Spot Treatment to address skin concerns such as discolouration, post-acne scars, and hyperpigmentation.
The newly launched Glutalight C series is developed by Dr. Wu, a Taiwanese dermatologist with over 40 years of clinical experience and extensive research on skin tissue structure.
What sets these products apart is their formulation with key ingredients like Niacinamide and a triple blend of Vitamin C. The former is essential to facilitating the skin renewal process and enhancing skin epidermal stability, while the latter works wonders in anti-ageing and improving skin tone.
Combine the dynamic duo, and the result promises a complexion as clear as crystal. Simply put, your skin gets to “glow” from the inside out, reflecting the 4Cs of diamonds.
Discolouration and lacklustre skin will also no longer be an issue with the Glutalight C Intensive Brightening Serum. Formulated to hydrate your skin, the serum also soothes and shields the skin against environmental damage such as UV light.
If dark spots are also a concern, the serum is your go-to solution. Thanks to ingredients such as multi-plant extracts that effectively lighten dark spots caused by oxidation and dehydration, it helps you achieve brighter skin.
Plus, its unscented, water-based essence texture leaves you with a non-sticky finish, perfect for full-face application even in Singapore’s humid conditions.
Alternatively, post-acne marks, sunburn, freckles, and hyperpigmentation can be reduced with the use of the Glutalight-C Intensive Brightening Spot Treatment.
Unlike the serum, the spot treatment is a targeted dark spot corrector that repairs skin damage caused by the sun and inflammation. After all, a clear complexion akin to the likes of our idols is always #goals.
Furthermore, the spot treatment boasts a gentle yet effective whitening formula, specifically designed to target areas of the skin in need of extra attention to combat hyperpigmentation. Its lightweight and fragrance-free texture enhances the application experience, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable skincare routine.
While some skincare enthusiasts may debate using products infused with Vitamin C in the morning due to photosensitivity, rest assured that the Glutalight-C Intensive Brightening Serum and Spot Treatment are safe for daytime use.
Images courtesy of Dr. Wu
In terms of application, Dr. Wu recommends using the products twice a day, both in the morning and at night, for 28 days consecutively to achieve optimum results.
Admit it ‒ radiant skin is something most of us dream of having. If you’re ready to undergo a skin transformation, check out Dr. Wu’s Glutalight C Intensive Brightening series, which reduces dark spots and brightens your skin. Chances are, you’ll also discover the benefits of using skincare products infused with Vitamin C and Niacinamide. With this arsenal of beauty care, turning older will never have to feel daunting again.
To purchase Dr. Wu’s Glutalight C Intensive Brightening Serum and Spot Treatment, you can visit both Watsons in-store, as well as their official shops on Shopee and Lazada. More information can also be found on their Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.
Cover: Images courtesy of Renae.
Photography by Shawn Low.
This post was sponsored by BeautyEdge.
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