1. This is only the beginning.
So you are finally 18! While you may be restricted in some areas you are old enough to vote which means the world is placing a great deal of responsibility on you. You have expectations of how your life should be and you are ready to conquer the world.
2. You will make mistakes - a lot of them.
You are about to be responsible for a lot more decisions in your life. You will make great ones and you will make terrible ones, but that is fine.. Keep going.
3. Do not feel discouraged because things do not go your way.
There will be many occasions when things do not go to plan. You may need to change your plan or reevaluate your goals, but do not let that prevent you from seeing the bigger picture.
4. Do not be dictated by your expectations.
Life may not turn out as your plan. College, friends, family, relationships - there are so many things that we expect to happen in our lives. Be prepared to change what you think your life will look like, because many things are out of your control. Focus on the things that you can control.
5. Try new things.
Take some time to explore other interests and see where they lead. Do not be afraid to try new things, meet new people, and gain new experiences.
6. Stop comparing yourself to others.
You will be surrounded by people who you think are so much more successful than you. That may or may not be true, but it should not matter. Instead you should focus on ways to improve yourself. Because while you are looking at to the side of you they will be looking to their future.
7. You will lose some of the people you think are friends.
You may have your group of friends who you have spent so much time with over the past 4 years and all of that is about to change. While some of these people will stay some of your greatest friends, others you will speak to less often or not at all.
8. Do not be afraid of change.
Let go of your fears and embrace what life has to offer. Change can be good and bring you so many great experiences.
9. Grab opportunities.
This is a time in your life when many opportunities will come your way. Do not be afraid to grab them and learn from each of them. You will never know until you try.
10. Be yourself.
Do not try to be anyone other than your fabulous self. You made it this far by being you, why stop now.
11. Plan ahead but leave room for changes.
Make a plan for your future and try to stick to it, but do not let it control you. Be flexible and
12. Don't be afraid to ask for help.
Your are young and will make mistakes. You are about to be more independent than you have ever been before. While you may feel like you are on top of the world you will need help. You should not be afraid to ask for it.
13. Your happiness is not defined by others or your successes.
You cannot let others determine your inner strength. Only you should be in control of your happiness.
14. Don't be afraid to let go.
Let go of the past, the drama, the unnecessary expectations, and the fear. Do not be weighed down by the negativity around you, but instead free yourself so you may grow.
15. Learn from your mistakes.
It is important that you take time to reflect on the mistakes you make so that you do not make them again. Take the time to think them over and see what you can use from them to apply to your future.
16. Be happy.
This is easier said then done, but your happiness should be one of the priorities of your life. Stress will play a big role in your life in the coming years. Taking care of yourself is very important for your well-being. Make sure to take time for yourself.
17. Do not let go of your dreams.
I do not have to tell you that getting what you want in life will be hard work and many times you may not do well. Just remember that you are stronger than your obstacles and deserve whatever you want in life. Do not let your failures stop you from achieving your goals.
18. Life is meant to be lived, not observed.
Remember that whatever happens you have a whole life ahead of you and you must live it.