As this year is coming to a close, it has been making me nostalgic of all that I have experienced and learned in the past 11 months. This has been a year of transition, growth and change that has made me a stronger person than I thought I ever could be. I wanted to share with you the 10 truths I have learned this past year.

1. Dinner for one is always okay.

Go ahead! Take yourself out to a nice dinner by yourself. And please know, you don’t have to feel lonely when you are alone.

2. There is always a chance that front-clasp bras will open on you unexpectedly

*walking to class

*dancing

*cross body purse strap breaking the clasp

*standing still

*breathing

3. A good cry is always needed

Let the tears fall, babe. You’ll feel so much better.

4. Wearing makeup does not mean you are insecure

Wearing makeup everyday does not mean that you don’t want people to see the "real" you. It just means you really like makeup. That’s it. Honest.

5. No makeup does not mean you are not trying

Walking out the door without a stitch of makeup does not mean that you are not making an effort either. You can find confidence with or without makeup. Just do what makes you feel your best, girl!

6. A good hug can make your whole day

A big hug can make all the difference in your day. Personally, I have always been partial to snuggles, so this wasn’t really a new thing I learned this year… just reinforced!

7. A smile is never out of place

There is never an inappropriate time to show someone you make them smile. And it is the best feeling to give a smile, just as much being given one. Smile on, friends!

8. Whatever it is that gets you through the day, DO THAT.

If this means eating all the pasta in the pantry, having a bottle of wine… or two, or hiding yourself in your house for a day, then Do IT! There is no wrong way to do things, so just do what gets you through the day— as long as you are being kind to yourself.

9. Your feminist voice is never too loud

This is one of the most important things I have learned this year. I have spent this last year trying my best to use my voice for all women. I have devoted myself to being an intersectional feminist (because there is not any other kind of true feminism than intersectional), and have had countless debates in my classes defending all women, including those who participate in prostitution. If there is one thing I know to be the Truth is that there is never a wrong time to be a woman warrior. Your voice can never get too loud and the #womenarmy can never get too big.

10. Although we cannot change some things (i.e. the outcome of the election), there many problems that you CAN change!

Find what you are passionate about and donate your money and/or your time! Every small act does really make a big difference.

And although this year has gone on way too long, appreciate what it has brought you. Take the good with you and leave the bad stuff in 2016. Because guess what? 2017 is coming!