We all have ups and downs. Life consists of constant learning, and there will be days with laughter and days with tears. It's important to remind yourself these ten things:
- Overthinking is not worth it. It will cause a lot more problems than it will offer solutions. If something makes you happy, go for it. If something makes you sad, consider if it’s worth it. Don’t think too much about things that you can't control, and especially don’t think too much about the things you can.
- Don’t take things so personally. Unless something was specifically aimed at you, chances are it wasn’t intended to hurt you. Evaluate what happened: is it really something that you should take offense to?
- Stress is killer. We all have a form of stress, whether it’s school, work, relationships, etc. But when we overcome that stress and realize there is so much more to life than the worrying we grow comfortable to, we can see that there's something beautiful about the life we live.
- Be healthy and happy. Overrated, yes, but there is something so beautiful about the idea of spontaneously breaking into song or dance, or just smiling because everything feels right. Take care of yourself and enjoy the little things.
- Jealousy gets you nowhere. Someone may have something you do not have, or may appear to be in a better state than you are. Be happy for them. Don’t forget about how many things you have to offer as well. As Dr. Seuss said, "There is no one alive that is youer than you!"
- Work ethic matters. Laziness doesn’t achieve anything. If you want that grade, you have to work for it. If you want things with your friend to get better, you have to work for it. There is no easy way out, but if you dedicate your all, you can get somewhere.
- Balance. We can sometimes have too much on our plate, but it is important to make sure that we do not prioritize something too much, or on the opposite end, neglect to take care of other things. A perfect balance equals a happier mindset.
- It is okay not to be okay. We all have our days where we don’t feel too happy, or hurt. But realize that even if things aren't okay, they will be. And it is just as important to pick yourself back up as it is to allow yourself to fall sometimes.
- Beauty is relative. Everyone is beautiful in some way. And when you look into that mirror and immediately pick out your flaws, remember that others do not see you in that way; we are always harder on ourselves than others are. Also, a beautiful heart and mind goes a long way. Love yourself.
- Live. We focus so much on certain things that we forget to just live. Live so that you can look back at your life and not only think about the lessons you’ve learned, but also about how proud you are of yourself for coming such a long way. Make the most out of this life you were given because honestly, it's a beautiful thing.
