There are a myriad of "You know you're getting older when…." jokes.

"You know you're getting older when...all of your favorite music can be found in the bargain bin at Walmart."

Or "You know you're getting older when...a 'late night' is 11pm."

Or "You know you're getting older when...you have a birthday party and your neighbors don't even realize it."

And I would add: "You know you're getting older when...on your birthday you spend most of the day reflecting upon your life." 

Am I the only one who does this?

As I celebrate another half-birthday today (and yes, there is still plenty of time to wish me a very happy half-birthday!), here is my insight: A half-birthday is a great day to look back over, not just the previous year, but all of your years, and ask yourself: "How can I invest my past into my future?"

Think of how awesome it is to take all of your lessons, triumphs, and wisdom gained in  your previous years and use them as a platform on which to grow into your next year of life. You take all of those life experiences, all of who you are up to this point, and make the next year even better!

By doing this, you are able to compound your past into your future. THIS is your gift. Make it a great and wonderful one. A gift not just for yourself, but a gift for others as well.

So, as you celebrate your birthday and half-birthday this year, blow out those candles and excitedly proclaim, "My life is a GREAT investment!!!" (This is what I'll be doing!)

Leave the wishing aside and create an extraordinary year.