The number 18 has always been a special number to me. I was born on the 18th day of the 8th month in 1998 at 8:18 am (pretty cool right?). Before my birthday this past week I took some time to reflect on important lessons I’ve learned, some the hard way, in my life. Here are 18 things to learn before turning 18:
- Don't give up, ever.
You are capable of doing more than you know. Push the limits and prove everyone wrong.
2. You should support your friends’ accomplishments instead of being jealous or overly competitive. 
It might not always feel great when someone accomplishes something before you do, but if you sincerely cheer their success (instead of reacting with jealousy), they’ll do the same for you one day.
3. One C on your math test will not keep you from getting accepted into college.
4. When it comes to friends, it’s better to have quality ones over quantity.
I’ve had my fair share of failed friendships. However, instead of holding on to the toxic friends I had, I only needed a handful that truly cared for me. Find your squad and be happy.
5. You don’t need a boyfriend to make you happy.
Believe me, at best they are a big headache. They take up a lot of time and cause unneeded stress. You could be using that time to focus on yourself because you SLAY!
6. Don’t waste time wallowing in self pity.
It’s okay to be upset when things don’t go your way, but you don’t want to dwell on it. Instead, focus on doing something positive right away.
7. You look great.
8. Eat that extra slice of pizza.
Or the rest of the box- I won’t judge you.
9. Don’t waste so much energy hating people.
10. Always tell your family member “I love you” before hanging up the phone.
Every time I call my nana I always tell her that I love her and she responds with “I love you more”. It’s the little things that make a big difference
11. Don’t let anyone tell you millennials are the worst.
There’s a media narrative that says millennials are entitled and narcissistic. Your understanding of technology, social media, and modern forms of communication is much stronger than everyone else's. Be proud of what you are good at and make a positive change in this world.
12. If your friend invites you out for a Starbucks run, GO!
Because that large pumpkin spice latte isn’t going to make itself.
13. Be kind, no matter what.
*Mama Jones’ Corner of Wisdom- the last five on this list are the important lessons my mom taught me throughout the years:
14. Girls can be nasty, but that doesn’t mean you have to be.
Don't be a follower. Do not go where the path may lead; go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.
15. Don’t pay any attention to what people say about you.
You are the only person who can determine who you are.
16. "You is kind, you is smart, you is important." -Aibileen Clark.
This adage from "The Help" is important to remember when having a bad day. All you have to do is look in the mirror and say "You is kind, you is smart, you is important."
17. You are invincible.
Not only is "Invincible" by Kelly Clarkson my favorite song, it is also what my mom tells me every time I feel like giving up. No matter what life throws at you , you have to keep standing strong because you are worth more and deserve better.
18. Everything happens for a reason.
This is the most important lesson on the list. Everything happens for a reason, even if you do not know the reason now, you will soon enough, just give it some time and keep going.
