16 is an age of growth, strength, tests and finding yourself. You will only live each day once, so make each day count. At this crazy age, here are 16 things I've learned.

1. Growing up can be hard to do.

High school, SATs, college, jobs, responsibilities... It can be overwhelming at times.

2. Not everybody grows up.

Billy still makes fart jokes every five minutes and Sally still has her parents do everything for her. They may learn eventually, or they may not. You will always have to deal with the less mature. Try not to let it bother you. Find the better crowd.

3. Jobs are stressful.

Nobody ever told you how hard it really is to juggle a job with school, sports, and socializing, but man did you find out quick. Time management is a big deal. You use that planner! Also, why is free money still not a thing?

4. You don't need a group of friends.

You've been in groups since kindergarten, but now you're realizing you really don't get along with some people. If people aren't good for you, cut them out. It is okay to be kind without being their best friend. It is okay to only have a few close friends. It is okay to not always be surrounded by loads of people. It is okay to even keep to yourself. It is not okay to surround yourself with people that negatively affect you. Do what makes you happiest.

"It happens to everyone as they grow up. You find out who you are and what you want, and then you realize that the people you've known forever don't see things the way you do. So you keep the wonderful memories, but find yourself moving on."

5. Relationships are hard.

You're young. You're still creating yourself and changing constantly. It's a hard age to keep a relationship, and many just don't work out. Try not to get all caught up in the idea of falling in love so young. Live your life and make memories. The right guy or gal will come along when the time is right. If you do find love young, make sure you're happy. Do what is the best for you!

6. It is perfectly fine to stand up for yourself.

If people are talking you down, spreading rumors, or just being plain rude, stand up for yourself. Not only will this help you, it will help them in turn. Never let anyone make you feel like you are less than you are. You are an amazing individual with your whole life ahead of you. Don't let anyone ruin your spark so young.

7. Don't let others try to change your morals.

It is okay to say no. It is okay to walk away. It is okay to go home. It is okay to not get involved in the bad crowd. Only do what you are okay with. Only do what you are sure of. Don't let anyone pressure you into anything you are not comfortable with, ever. Stand up for yourself and your morals.

8. Loose sleep for memories.

Years from now, you won't remember or care about how much sleep you got every night. You won't remember if you got a full 8 hours each night. You will remember the moments you were awake, making memories. Make the most of each day and remember high school and this age while you can. Wake up early to watch the sunrise, go on a midnight Steak and Shake run, stay up until dawn talking and laughing with friends. Even stay up a little bit later to study. Live your life to the fullest and have no regrets.

9. Coffee.

Groggy mornings. Late nights studying. Iced or hot, coffee. That is all.

10. Never go to bed angry.

Life is too short and it isn't worth it. Talk it out. Dance it out. Thank God for the day.

11. It is OKAY to have a bad day.

Bad days happen. You can be in a bad mood from time to time. When those days come, embrace the storm. Take the time to be upset and keep to yourself. However, don't say anything you will regret. Don't hurt others just because you're having a bad day. Relax at the end of the day, sleep it all off, and wake up the next day with a fresh start and a better mood.

12. Grades do matter.

Grades are what determine your diploma. Therefore, if you want to graduate high school, at least try. You can only do high school once. Don't mess it all up and later regret it. If you plan on going to college, put in effort. Study for an extra 15 minutes, double check your tests, take notes, and be proud of yourself in the end. Hard work always pays off.

13. The drama you are dealing with will pass.

I always ask myself, "Will this matter in a year?". If the answer is no, then don't stress about it. Stay clam. It will pass soon and you probably won't even remember 10 years from now.

14. You are not alone.

Always remember you have your parents. You're growing up quicker than they can handle, let them enjoy it all while they can. Ask for help if you need it. Take advantage of their help while you still can. You also have you friends, teachers, counselors, and the rest of your family. You are never alone and you will be okay no matter what. I believe in you and so do so many others.

National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255

15. Believe in who you are.

"It is better to fail in originality than to succeed in imitation." -Herman Melville

"If you desire to make a difference in the world, you must be different from the world." -Elaine Dalton

16. Trust in God.

God made you and he knows you are capable. Pray and believe, God will never give up on you.

Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and future."

Sixteen is an age different from any other. You will only experience it once. Make the most of every moment of this crazy beautiful life.