Happy new year! 2017 has been filled with new experiences, new people, and a whole lot of new memories. I am so thankful to have experienced the things I have and go to college here at Alabama.
During 2017, I have learned that:
1. It's OK to make mistakes.
Making mistakes is a part of life. It helps you learn from different situations and aim towards making the right decision the next time.
2. Family should ALWAYS come first.
This is so important. Call them, spend time with them as much as you can, and pray for them! Family is forever, they’re not going anywhere!
3. Also, call your relatives.
Grandparents and relatives are so important as well. Give them a call, I promise you it will make their day. Never take for granted the family and extended family you have.
4. Don't delete pictures.
A picture really is worth a thousand words. Don’t delete them! It is so fun to look back on those sunny vacations to the beach, throwbacks from early childhood, or just cute pictures of you and your best friends.
5. Make new friends.
Your very best friends will always be there, but don't forget to make new friends along the way. This doesn’t mean you need to change your friend group all the time, but making friends changes perspectives and starts new memories that you can cherish for a lifetime.
6. Turn off social media once in a while.
Yes, this can be very challenging. With Instagram, Twitter, and Snapchat always refreshing, it's hard to stay away! Even if it's just an hour without the distraction of a phone, this can help clear your mind and have actual encounters with those around you. Easier said than done but worth a try.
7. You learn who your real friends are.
Keep those true friends that support you no matter what, are there for you in your worst and best times, and know you the best. Surrounding yourself with these kinds of people is healthy for you, and those around you.
8. Hard work pays off.
It does! If you work hard at something and are determined to achieve that goal or passion, you are most likely going to succeed. Keep pushing through, it will be worth it in the end.
9. Taking time for yourself is equally as important as being with others.
I learned this especially in my first semester of college. College is such a fun time with different friends, experiences, and memories that keep you so busy. So saying that, it is also important to take time for yourself. You deserve it!
10. Accepting constructive criticism.
This is something that I have always struggled with. But I always tell myself, those people giving me the advice or constructive criticism are only trying to help. They’re shaping me into a better person, no matter what!
11. Don't procrastinate.
Get stuff done! Be prompt with everything you do and stay accountable for your plans and goals at hand.
12. But also, take things one day at a time.
It's so easy to get caught up in a million things that need to get done; take things slow and it is bound to work out in the end.
13. Visit new places.
Go outside of your comfort zone! Explore different things, see new places.
14. Set goals.
If you have nothing to work towards, where are you going?
15. Parents are forever.
No, parents are not just for getting groceries, making dinner and booking your dentist appointment for you. They are there for you through every aspect of your life whether you like it or not. They are there to support you, care for you and most of all, love you.
16. Always trust your gut.
Go with your gut, your first instinct.
17. Everything happens for a reason.
A motto I have lived by for quite sometime. It comes in to play whatever I am doing. I find myself always repeating this phrase in my head. People change, things don’t always go your way. But good things are in store for the future.
Welcome to 2018!