In a few short weeks, I will be packing up my entire life, moving out of my childhood home, and heading off to college. While getting ready for this big move, I sat back and reminisced about the things that I have learned in my brief time here on Earth.

1. Be the change you wish to see in the world

Whether it be starting a new club at school, writing an article to enhance awareness, or protesting an unjust cause, you have the power to make changes happen. If something isn't cutting it for you, get up and change it yourself, no one will do it for you.

2. Don't be afraid to ask for help

It's okay to ask for help. It's not a sign of weakness or insecurity. Don't let your ego get in the way.

3. Don't say "no" just because you're scared

So many new opportunities will come to you in your life. Step out of your comfort zone and say "yes." You won't regret it.

4. Sometimes all it takes is a sunset

If you're ever feeling stressed out or emotional and need something to calm you down, a sunset is just the thing. Sit back and enjoy the magnificent view, putting all your anxious thoughts and worries on the back burner.

5. Don't be afraid to lose

You can work super hard and put all of your efforts into one project or idea and still end up losing. That doesn't mean you give up, it means you stand up and try again.

6. What you think of yourself is more important than what others think of you

Who cares what others think of you? If you like yourself and are happy with yourself, that's all that matters. Live how you want to, not how others want you to.

7. Friends will come and go

It's inevitable and you can't do anything to prevent it.

8. But you'll always know who's here to stay

Don't get stressed out about the friends who left. Instead, cherish the friends who are here to stay.

9. Don't take advantage of your family time

No matter how crazy they are, or how embarrassed you are of them, don't take the moments you have with them for granted. In a few years, you'll miss that special family time.

10. Not everyone is going to like you

And that's okay. Don't take it seriously because for every one person who doesn't like you, there are hundreds that do.

11. Trust your gut

If something is rubbing you the wrong way, don't do it. But if your gut is telling you to jump at the opportunity, listen to it.

12. Life is too short to sleep in

Get up and do something, there's time to sleep when you're dead.

13. Ask as many questions as possible

14. Age is just a number, so if you believe you can do something, go out there and do it. Nothing can stop you.

15. Be thankful

You may think you have little to be thankful for, but at this moment you have access to the Internet, can read, and most importantly, you are alive. Isn't that enough?

16. Karma is real

What you put into the universe comes back to you. Always do good and then good things will happen to you.

17. Be passionate

Find something that excites you, something that you could do for hours on end and never get tired of it.

18. Enjoy the little things

Whether it be the first snow fall, a spontaneous trip to the beach, or a good hair day, enjoy these little things. These moments will be the ones you'll miss the most, so take advantage of them.