Over the past year, I have gained new insights and new experiences. Since I'm turning 19 in the next few days, I've decided to pass along some of the wisdom I have (at the ripe age of 18) for anyone who may need some advice.

1. It's okay to have a lazy day (or two).

At this age, we are very busy all the time between being in college then coming home in the summer to work. If you have a day off, it is completely acceptable to lay on the couch and watch Netflix all day.

2. Fighting doesn't solve anything.

You may think that starting arguments is a good way to get your point across, but trust me... it's not. Stay calm, cool, and collected, and people are bound to listen to you more.

3. Cherish the time you spend with your family.

After being away all year, it's nice to spend the summer with your family. Even though they may become annoying or overbearing, understand that they aren't used to you having so much freedom while away at school. They do it because they love you.

4. Always work hard, because in the end, hard work does pay off.

From personal experience, working harder than the person next to you is always the key to success. The harder you work, the more rewards will come your way.

5. You can't live with a life full of regrets.

Whatever happened in the past, happened in the past. You cannot dwell on what happened in the past. Move on and make new memories and meet new people. The past is the past, and you cannot let it affect your future.

6. Don't ignore your mental health.

Treat your mental health like you would your physical health. They are equally as important and you don't want to be trapped in a place you cannot get out of.

7. There will be friends who you no longer are friends with... and that's okay.

Not all of your friends will be your friends for life. To the one(s) who have stayed by my side... thank you and I love you. To the one(s) who aren't in my life anymore... thank you for all the memories, I wish you the best.

8. Be an independent thinker.

It's important to have an open mind, but that doesn't mean that you have to conform to other people's ideas. Have your own opinions.

9. Explore your passions.

People feel like their passion has to take a backseat to whatever they're currently consumed with: work, school, friends, family. However, that doesn't need to happen. Share and explore your passion with others, it could potentially be a great escape.

10. Change happens.

Don't be afraid of change. Change is good and it's part of life.

11. Don't worry all the time.

Worrying all the time gets you no where. Trust me, it takes away from the experiences you have and the memories you make.

12. It's totally okay to not be okay.

Sometimes you have those days where no matter what happens, you can't be happy. Just know that there are always people around you who are there for you.

13. Love yourself just as much as the people around you love you.

Self-hate is too common now. Everyone has flaws, but you cannot focus all of your attention on the little details. No one is perfect and that's okay, but if you don't love yourself, you will never be happy.

14. Life won't always be easy.

There are always obstacles you will have to overcome in almost every aspect of your life. Overcoming adversity is what builds character.

15. Don't give up.

No matter what you're doing, do not throw in the towel. Whether it's school work, sports, looking for a job, losing weight, finding your passion... do not ever give up. Everything happens for a reason.

16. Be thankful for everything.

Everything in life is a blessing. We are fortunate to have what we have. I am so thankful for everything in my life (though I may not always show it). Don't take anything for granted.

17. Be happy and healthy.

Being happy is simple. Don't dwell on the negatives in life or put yourself into a bad situation. Just live life like you feel like you should and all will fall into place.

18. Time flies, so enjoy life and make some memories along the way.

Life moves fast, so make sure you embrace the good, the bad, and the ugly. Cherish those close to you, but let those who don't want to be in your life go. Make memories and document them for the future. Life is good, so you better make the most of it.

*Note: I have learned a lot more things than these 18, but I feel like these are some of the most important.