Growing up with a police officer as a father isn't the easiest thing in the world. They're strict, loud, and always telling you to not do the one thing you want to do. In reality, they really are just looking out for your best interest and that's why I have to thank my dad for doing it all.

Here are 10 things I learned from having an NYPD officer as a father.

1. When out in a public area, always sit with your back to the wall or corner so you can scan the area.

I have done this on more than one occasion. So much that I don't even realize I'm doing it anymore. People watching is pretty much my entertainment.

2. Pretty much anything can be turned into a weapon when you really need it to be.

I have used a shoe to smack my brother way too often. The art of self-defense is not lost on me. Thanks, dad.

3. Discipline.

I have learned to be patient, be kind, and always stick to what I start. My father has taught me that nothing comes easy but if you work hard enough, the results are always rewarding.

4. Always be aware of your surroundings.

Everywhere I go, I have always looked around me and made sure I have everything I need (you never know what you'll need until the unthinkable is upon you).

5. If you didn't plan on going out that day or your plans fell through, maybe there's a reason why.

I have learned the hard way that if the universe is telling you no, then don't do it. Maybe going to that bar at 10 p.m. on a whim isn't the best decision. If you feel like you aren't meant to be there then you probably aren't. Go with your gut.

6. Never leave a man behind.

You walk into that place with four people, you better leave with that many. There are so many stories that you hear on the news of all the college kids getting left behind at bars and ending up on some interstate. If my father has taught me anything, it's to not be stupid. The people around you are the most important people that night and even if you have to drag them out by their hair screaming, they'll thank you in the morning.

7. Never let things get to you.

In life, you'll get a ton of people yelling at you for something you can't even control and that's okay. Don't sweat the small stuff, because in the end karma will always take care of it. Be the bigger person and it'll all work out.

8. Don't lie.

Just don't. When I was younger and got myself into crazy situations my father always knew the whole story before I did. When he got home he would sit me down and ask me "What happened today? Oh, and don't lie to me because I already know the whole story". That was pretty much the scariest moment of my life because in reality he probably didn't know the whole story, but that scare tactic worked a hell of a lot better than you think.

9. How to laugh at myself.

There are so many situations I find myself in that I can't help but just laugh at. From falling up stairs in a public place or doing something super embarrassing in front of a member of the opposite sex, I always laugh. You can't live your life embarrassed by what you do, because, at the end of the day, it's what makes you the way you are.

10. Finally, love.

My father has taught me that no matter what life throws at you, you can always handle it with a caring and honest attitude. There's no situation that can't be talked down or talked out. Sometimes, you get frustrated and that's okay, but always remember that there are so many people out there dying to be where you are. Enjoy what you do and never take anything for granted.

So, thank you to all the police officer dads out there working their butts off to teach their kids the best lessons they will ever learn. God bless.