I recently turned 19, and reflected on the real life lessons I have learned along the way. Nineteen is an awkward age because you aren't a "new" adult anymore, but you also are not 21. This waiting period is a good time to see what you have learned so far about being an adult. I still have a lot of things to learn, but here are a few pieces of advice.
1. The amount of likes you get on a picture doesn’t define you.
Don't let something like social media define your self-worth.
2. Always watch "Friends" when you're sad.
A good Phoebe quote will always make you smile.
3. Never give up hope that you are going to marry Ryan Gosling.
There is still a chance you could marry your dream guy. Don't forget that.
4. Don’t let boys be mean to you.
Or anyone for that matter. You are awesome, so surround yourself with people who know that.
5. Dumb mistakes don’t make you dumb.
Not one person is perfect. Just because you made a mistake doesn't make you any less a person.
6. Stop going to bed at 2 a.m. because of FOMO.
Sleep is important and always put your own well-being before FOMO.
7. Accept that you will never find a good Snapchat angle.
It's just not going to happen. So embrace the double-chin selfies.
8. Spend as much time as you can with your dog.
Your dog will love you through anything, so spend lots of quality time with them.
9. Call your grandma. She loves you.
Or any family member. They probably miss you and would love to hear from you.
10. Remember, Chipotle is always a good idea. Always.
Also, get guacamole. You deserve it.
11. Go to church, pray, or practice whatever you believe in.
Life is too short not to find yourself spiritually.
12. Accept that you probably aren’t going to find your soul mate on Tinder.
Sadly, you (most likely) won't find your soul mate swiping right. Don't rush relationships, the best ones happen naturally.
13. Apply for everything. Internships, jobs, raffles, or whatever — just apply for it.
You really won't know if you don't try.
14. Take naps. Lots of naps.
This one explains itself.
15. Remember to ask yourself, “Do I really need another pair of these black leggings?”
At 19, my bank account is sad. So, now is the time to start taking my money seriously, despite how badly I want yet another black T-shirt.
16. If you don’t like something, stop doing it.
Nothing is guaranteed in this world, so you have to do what makes you happy.
17. Dress for success.
When you dress in what makes you feel confident, your whole day will be better.
18. Your siblings are actually kind of cool, so hang out with them.
You guys were raised by the same people, so you have to have at least one thing in common.
19. Today is actually only 24 hours. You can make it.
Remember that even if you have a bad day, it doesn't make everything bad.
