Before you even think it, let me tell you that I know. I know you have probably read hundreds of these lists on Tumblr and on Instagram, but you have never read mine. In the 18 years that I have had on this earth, I have learned a lot. I have learned about the concept of time, the strange patterns of history, the inconsistencies of math, and even the necessity of flatulence, but this list isn't about that stuff. This list is about the lessons I have learned and the natural remedies to life I have found.

1. There are very few things a warm drink cannot cure.

This is probably one of the first major lessons i learned as a child. Whenever I was sick or sad my grandmother would offer me a hot cup of tea. As soon as the steam coming from the cup hit my face, all of my problems melted away. I always wonder if my grandmother knew how appreciated those cups of tea were.

2. Your body needs sleep. Your mind needs sleep. Go get some sleep.

I hate to tell you this, but you are not a robot. Sleep is one of the most basic human needs. Maybe sleep is not always the answer, but it helps. Sometimes it is just easier to close your eyes and deal with life a little bit later.

3. It's ok to stop being friends with people.

This one I learned the hard way. I remained friends with someone even when they were hurting my feelings and breaking down my self-esteem. I thought that because we were friends for 3 years, we were supposed to be friends forever. To put it simply, you are allowed to separate yourself from anything that isn’t good you.

4. Good music can change your day.

If I had a quarter for every time a song changed my day, I’d actually be able to afford my college tuition. Whether its Beyonce or Mozart, there will be a song out there that can completely change your mood.

5. Being lost is the best part of any adventure.

Of all of the trips I have been on, the most memorable ones are the unplanned. Being lost with the people you adore is amazing. You are able to learn and experience new things with the people who matter to you most. So, go out there and get lost!

6. Water is the most incredible force on the planet.

All organisms need water to thrive. From the smallest cellular organisms to the biggest creatures in the wild, they all need water. Water is capable of giving life and taking life. I learned about the destructive nature of water during hurricane sandy. I watched the water I adored so much pick up and swallow my entire community. Who knew water was so impressive?

7. Read everything.

The most important lessons I have learned in life have been from random signs in subway stations. It may be the oldest phrase in the book, but reading is truly fundamental. Read everything to inform yourself of events and topics, both big and small.

8. Always look up.

This one I definitely got from a poster in the subway. Today we are all so engrossed in our smartphones that we never look up. We never look around to appreciate the beautiful earth we live on or the amazing people we are surrounded by. Sometimes we just need to take a break from our electronics and grasp the beauty of life.

9. There are going to be sad days.

Life isn't always a walk in the park. There are going to be days and moments that aren’t the best, but you should know that you can get through them. In case you did not know, you have survived 100% of your bad days.

10. There are going to be happy days.

Life is not always bad. There are fun times, with good people and good energy. The good times can last for as long as you decide. Life is decided by you. Your attitude determines the good things, vibes, and energies that enter into your life.

Life is beautiful, so go out there and live it.