10 women share the advice they wish they'd gotten before 30.

Thanks to our brand partner, Ostelin

As I edged closer to 30, I remember thinking I didn't feel all that different — but the signs were there.

I was more dependent on coffee than ever, yet somehow never managed to finish a cup. And those all-nighters I used to pull? Long gone, replaced by my kids waking me at all hours.

Like many in their 30s, life is now full of non-negotiables — paying bills, being a present partner and parent, running errands and somehow finding time for myself. These things matter deeply, but they take a toll mentally and physically.

If I could give my pre-30 self some advice? I'd say this: prioritise your wellbeing. Because juggling everything that matters in your 30s only really works when you're feeling your best.

As tempting as it is to grab something on the go or polish off the kids' leftovers, the NSW Get Healthy Service is a good reminder that a balanced diet is key for keeping your energy up and feeling your best. Mixing it up with a variety of foods from the five core food groups helps make sure you're getting what your body actually needs.

For additional nutrition support, Ostelin Iron & B+ Energy is one option that contains iron (as ferrous bisglycinate), vitamin B12, B6 and B2 to maintain energy levels, relieve tiredness and aid healthy red blood cell production. It also supports absorption of dietary iron and B vitamins and helps to maintain haemoglobin formation.

Now, onto exercise. When I'm running on empty, it feels like the last thing I want to do. I used to think it would leave me even more tired — but Aussie research shows regular movement can actually boost your energy and help lift your mood.

Similarly, just as maintaining our physical health requires thoughtful choices, reflecting on our past can guide us towards better decisions for the future. So, I asked 10 women to share the advice they wish they'd heard before turning 30 — here's what they had to say.

Chloe

"I wish someone had told me not to let worry take over. You're stronger than you think and capable of handling whatever comes your way — even the things that feel like they'll break you. Don't waste energy stressing over what hasn't happened yet; it only makes you live it twice. The truth is, most of what we worry about never actually happens. Trust yourself more — you've got this."

Jaime

"You don't need to own a house to feel at home, and you don't need expensive clothes to feel good about yourself. Your mindset and happiness are more in your control than you think — but it starts with letting go of unrealistic expectations. Life's too short."

Jess

"Don't stress too much about your career — career changes aren't a big deal and you might even enjoy pivoting to something new! It's okay to say no to things you don't want to do without needing a reason. Do more crafts to calm your mind and keep your hands busy. And don't waste time on people who don't make time for you; they're not worth your energy."

Emma

"Take care of your mental wellbeing and heal your inner child; it'll help you choose the right friends and partner. Let go of timelines and focus on the present. Set boundaries, be a girls' girl and find validation within. Stay kind even when it's hard, and surround yourself with women who lift you up. Most importantly, always be yourself."

Marama

"As a 34-year-old mum of five, I'd tell my younger self to take health seriously. Uni isn't everything, and comparing your life to others only steals your joy. Kindness always leaves a mark. Speak up for yourself — from primary school to adulthood.

"Parenting is hard, but don't be afraid to ask for help. You can be a mum, have a career and still want time for yourself. And no matter where you come from, your worth is the same as anyone else's. Life will throw curveballs — but what matters is how you grow from them."

Kylie

"Travel as much as you can! Immerse yourself in other cultures and learn from them. Don't rush through life chasing milestones — you'll miss the stage you're in now and one day, you won't be able to go back and enjoy it."

Sam

"Fill your life with love and happiness and when things get hard, look for the silver lining. Savour every moment, because life only speeds up. I'd heard that growing up, but it wasn't until I had kids that it truly sank in. Now at 35, I'm still trying to hit the brakes!"

Rachel

"Don't let anyone steal your joy. Do what you love, no matter what others think — they don't have to live your life, but you do. Stop stressing about finding the 'right person'. Instead, surround yourself with the right people and enjoy your time with friends. There's plenty of time to settle down."

Melanie

"Don't be so scared of failing that you don't try. Start a business, buy a puppy, learn to cook and take care of yourself. But don't feel pressured to have it all together — it's okay to still feel young and not be okay sometimes. And take time to figure out your finances so you don't find yourself in a mess later."

Amy

"Just be nice to people. Be nice to your partner, be nice to your friends. Be nice to your kids and be nice to strangers. It all comes back your way eventually."

Find Ostelin Iron and B+ Energy at your local pharmacy.

Always read the label and follow the directions for use.

Feature Image: Supplied.

At Ostelin we believe we are all different and experience the stages of life in unique ways, with different highs and lows.
New Ostelin Women's Health Range is designed to empower and support women through these different life stages.