In the grand scheme of life, nineteen years old is incredibly young. You’ve recently graduated high school and made your way off to college or began your career right after graduation. Needless to say, there is still a lot of learning to do. Although I know that there is still much for me to learn about life and myself, in my nineteen short years on this Earth I think I’ve learned quite a bit. These are the 19 of the most important things that I have learned by 19.
1. Family is so important.
I’m talking majorly important. Without my family, I would have no idea who I am. I have learned absolutely everything through them. They provide the support and love I need to get through each and everyday. For that, I am so incredibly grateful.
2. You do not need to be like everybody else.
In fact, you shouldn’t be like everybody else. In middle school and high school, I was way too caught up in what people thought of me and I painstakingly tried to fit in. In college, I realized that peoples differences are what makes them so interesting and learning something unique about someone is pretty cool.
3. Do what you love.
This one kind of goes along with not being just like everybody else. It’s so important to do what you want to do, no matter how impossible it may seem.
4. Be nice.
This should go without saying. In a world where hate runs ramped, it’s important to be kind. A simple smile to a stranger goes a long way.
5. Don’t push people away.
We have a tendency to push away the people that care the most for us. It’s human nature. Do your best to keep yourself in check and always tell the people you love how you feel.
6. The boy who broke your heart in high school is just the boy who broke your heart in high school.
Yes, it hurt, but you got over it. Leave the boy that broke your heart in high school, in high school.
7. Don’t be afraid to fall in love.
It’s not easy to let your guard down once you have been hurt. Once you do, it’s all worth it.
8. Don’t let materialistic items rule your life.
Having nice things is great, but don’t make it your priority. Don’t get caught up in your possessions because at the end of the day, that is all they are... possessions.
9. Live without regrets.
The worst feeling is feeling like you missed out on something that you had the opportunity to do. Do things that will make you happy and never regret them.
10. Never bite off more than you can chew.
We all want to be perfect and be able to juggle school, work, an internship, family, friends, and a significant other seamlessly. Sometimes, it gets hard and that’s when you ask for help.
11. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Your loved ones want to help you, so don’t be afraid to ask for it every now and then.
12. Always say you’re sorry when it’s necessary.
You never want to be the person who couldn’t swallow their pride and just apologize. Ask yourself if you would you rather win a fight or lose a friend.
13. Choose to be happy.
Happiness is not something that just comes along spontaneously; it’s a conscious choice.
14. Surround yourself with like-minded people.
Make friends and date people that are interested in things that you are interested in. It makes for a stronger connection and better conversation.
15. Don’t try to control everything.
Not everything is within your control. Let nature take it’s course, for there is a plan for all of us.
16. Grades are not everything.
Not to say that grades aren’t important, but they are not everything. One bad grade doesn’t make you stupid and it doesn’t mean you won’t graduate.
17. Thank the people that matter to you.
A simple ‘thank you’ goes a long way and it won’t be forgotten.
18. Take time for yourself.
It's important to have "me" time. Read a book, go on a walk, or go shopping. Whatever it is that centers you, do it.
19. Always give your very best.
Whether it’s homework, tests, work or relationships, always put your full heart into whatever you do and never give up.
