The world can be a scary place. Things happen without even the slightest of warnings. Every day is a new surprise, and sometimes it's not a good one. I have lived through 6,201 days. Some have been such a blessing, while others have broke me to my lowest point. When I look back over the past 17 years, I realize that the good days and the bad days have taught me so much. I’ve made countless memories over my life time, but more importantly I have made countless discoveries; discoveries that stem from some of my most basic memories. At the time, I never thought about what these discoveries would add up to, but when I look back on them now, it is nearly impossible for me not to see the incredible gift each lesson has been. From the first memory I have to right now as I write this, I am dumbfounded at the amazing lessons I have learned throughout the last 17 years.
1. Don't repeat history.
Learn from your past, and don't be afraid to tackle the future. The past can only get you if you stop to look back. It's history for a reason.
2. The answer is always no, if you don't ask.
As much as we wish it were possible, others can't read our minds. Use your words, and don't be afraid to ask for things. The worst that can happen is they say no.
3. Time helps, but doesn't heal.
Time does not heal, you do. Time is a tool that we use to learn how to move forward with our lives. Take time to learn how to heal.
4. It's all about people.
The connections that we make in life are what propel us forward. Life is about the people you impress, and the connections you make.
5. Trust your gut.
The feeling you get in the pit of your stomach is an indicator that you know what you want. Don't ignore that feeling because it will only continue to grow, and eventually it will win.
6. Look for the open door.
Someone can open the door, but you have to be willing to walk through it. If the door doesn't open, it is not your door. Close one door and another opens. Don't stand outside hoping, walk through it.
7. It goes on.
Life doesn't stop for anyone. The world does not stop turning just because we do. Whatever you are feeling will pass, and life will continue on. Don't get left behind.
8. Wishing doesn't make it so.
Hoping and praying that you will one day be rich won't make you rich. Stop watching Netflix and start doing something. Work hard and life will reward you.
9. Get up, dress up, show up.
Getting out of bed is the biggest accomplishment. Get up every morning. Everything is better once you get going. Take a shower and wash away whatever is weighing you down. The world is waiting to see what kind of greatness you have.
10. Don't neglect your dog.
They may only be there for part of your life, but you are their world. Dogs live to be loved, and need love to live. Give them the extra cookie, and take the five minutes to pet them before work, even if it means you'll be late.
11. Your brain is the only thing you have.
It is the most amazing tool we are given. Don't waste it on small things, use it to make a life you want to live. Think and then do.
12. Take risks.
It is the rules you break that leave the greatest memories. You aren't going to remember the nights you stayed home and sat on your couch.
13. Never stop believing in magic.
Fairy tales aren't just for kids. When do you stop believing there is magic in the world? Why do we stop believing? Miracles happen every day, and that is magic in itself.
14. Cake tastes best when you don't think about it.
Stop counting calories. Don't check the box to see how much sugar is in it. You didn't care about the calories on your first birthday, so why care about them now?
15. Wait for it.
Life can be prodigious if we let it. Incredible things come to those who are smart enough to wait. Stop to smell the flowers, and wait for something amazing to come your way.
16. Embrace your inner nerd.
We all have a nerdy side. There is no reason to hide it. Some of us are nerdy about math, some about cars, and some of us are nerdy about food. Embrace the nerd within you.
17. Laugh at yourself.
Don't take life to seriously. You aren't being graded on how perfect everything is; life isn't a test. Take time to laugh at yourself, find something to laugh about when you start to stress too much.
