As the year comes to a close, I want to reflect on things that I’ve learned this year. There have been tons of ups and downs, and in a lot of ways it’s been pretty rough. But, I’ve learned a lot about myself, as well as the world around me.

So, here’s a list of things that have stood out to me this year:

Number 1:

You get over the guy (or girl) you thought you never would. Even though your heart broke, you got through it. And by getting through it, you learn a lot about yourself, what you want in a relationship, and the world opens up to a multitude of new possibilities.

Number 2:

When you move away from home, you change. And usually, you don’t notice until you actually go home. Whether that means you change compared to your friends, your personality switches a little, or you have new perspectives on life, change has occurred.

Number 3:

No one can stop you from being who you want to be. You don’t have to conform to anyone's idea of you.

Number 4:

After high school, and if you choose to go to college, your friends will get you on levels that you never thought possible. And it’s amazing.

Number 5:

If you want to tell someone you like them, or aren’t interested in them, or anything like that, just do it! There’s no point in waiting around for something that you don’t know will happen or not. Say what you need to say. Yes, it’s a risk. But just do it.

Number 6:

Enjoy your mom’s food while you can. Home cooked meals are the best things in the world.

Number 7:

As long as you try your best, your grade actually doesn’t matter all that much. If you put in the effort, it will likely pay off.

Number 8:

Stay connected to high school teachers that you really liked, and let them know you liked them. High school is probably kind of rough to teach. They probably appreciate hearing how they’ve positively impacted you.

Number 9:

Literally nothing is wrong with an hour long Netflix break between studying. Nothing.

Number 10:

Compliment people you see. If you like their hair, or outfit, or shoes, tell them. It’ll make their day.

Number 11:

Challenge yourself, whether that be in classes, or working out, or meeting a ton of new people. Do it, because even if you can meet half of your goal, it’s a success.

Number 12:

There’s no way that you can actually get behind on life. Just because you’re never one hundred percent sure of what you’re doing with your life doesn’t mean that you’re behind. It’s your life, and your life only.

Number 13:

Talking about your ‘issues’ isn’t a bad thing. It doesn’t make you vulnerable. It makes you brave.

Number 14:

Make sure you tell your parents and/or siblings you love them. And hug your dog, lots, because when you move away from home there are suddenly a lot fewer dogs to hug.

Number 15:

You can’t prepare for everything in life, and that’s okay. Don’t let the surprises negatively impact you.

Number 16:

Do your best. Love everyone. Think positively. Be your own person. You can do this.

If 2016 was a bad year for you (as part of it was for me!), I wish you the best of luck in 2017. And even if the year wasn’t bad, I hope that you have an amazing new year. And remember, “even the darkest night will end and the sun will rise” (Les Miserables, Victor Hugo). Happy (almost!) New Year!