On World Sivaslı Day, that is 05.08 — no matter how you put it, on 58 — in 2023 I turned 30 years old. I’ve now said Bismillah to my 30s. The number of days I’ve spent in this world: 10,958. That’s quite a lot of time. I’ll reflect on these years and the past year, but first let’s look at what I’ve learned in 30 years:

• Health is more important than anything. First and foremost, you must take care of it.
• Along with health comes family. You need people you can lean your back on in this world. Otherwise, money will sort itself out one way or another with Allah’s will.
• When you work only for money, it will always feel like too little. Even if it’s a lot, it will feel small. That’s why you should try to work by doing what you love.
• Instead of having many friends or companions, it’s better to have a few strong ones you can count on. Friends are very important; your life can even be shaped around them.
• Don’t be pessimistic. I didn’t even notice how 30 years passed. If I live to see another 30, it will probably feel like the blink of an eye as well. That’s why you should find small things that make you happy. And if you’re in an environment where you’re not happy, step away. There’s no reason to stay.
• Learn to say no. You’ll feel more at ease. But if your “no” comes from laziness, then you might be sabotaging yourself. Which brings us to the next point.
• Be balanced. Too little of anything is harmful, too much of anything is harmful too.

Of course, many more points and details can be added here, but as I said: everything is best in moderation, in balance. Looking back, I ask myself if I have any moments I deeply regret. Alhamdulillah, I don’t. Because in everything I did there was always cause and effect. My reasoning was strong, and I believe I did the math right, so I don’t carry any deep regrets.

The only thing is — there are some things I postponed. And sometimes I wonder if I’ll regret not doing them earlier when I grow old. But right now, I’m content, Alhamdulillah. Let’s leave those for the “future Burak” to deal with.

Beyond that, being organized and planned became something I loved in my mid-20s. I started keeping journals more regularly, even backdated. And I especially enjoy writing and sealing special moments — unique or important ones in my life.

The essence is this: I am grateful for today, and I pray tomorrow will be even better and more blessed than today, inshaAllah.

Stay well,
May Allah protect you.