19 years old. 234 months. 7134 days. 171,216 hours. 616,377,600 seconds. That's how long I've been on this Earth. It's crazy to think that for 19 years, life has thrown me so many obstacles and taught me so many lessons. Thinking back at when I was younger, I would've never thought I would be where I am today. A college student, juggling a few jobs while making sure I still have a pretty good social life. But between work, socializing, and school, I've managed to sit back and think about 19 things that I've learned by age 19. And I'm sure you all thought about these things too.
1. Forget what hurt you but never forget what it taught you.
Everything that happens in your life is either a blessing or a lesson. Don't fall for the same things over and over again because it's the same story on repeat.
2. That boy you're trippin' over is not worth your time.
It may seem like the hardest thing you've ever done at the time, but once he's gone, you'll realize you're good without him.
3. Don't let a letter define you.
If you have a crappy GPA, do not give up! Someone is always going to be proud of you no matter what. Remember, your grades could always be worse.
4. Confidence is key.
Although you may not be the happiest or aren't the happiest with your body or your looks, make sure your emotions don't show it! Show everyone you're confident.
5. That beach body is never going to be 'perfect' enough for you.
Stop stressing over what bathing suit to wear to the beach and just throw one on. I bet no one will even notice that you aren't a zero, because size is just a number.
6. If you want it, get it.
If you can't get it, don't give up. You can do anything you put your mind to. We may not need it but we want it.
7. Never sacrifice.
If you want to do something but someone else wants to do something else, defend yourself. Don't sacrifice things you love at someone else's expense.
8. Be open to different opinions.
Listen to other peoples opinions once and a while. Even though you may not agree with what someone has to say, listen.
9. Don't hold grudges.
Usually, the fight you're holding on to isn't worth it. Think about it, will this fight matter in the future?
10. You're always going to have your family.
Family always comes first. Who's going to have your back at the end of the day? Family.
11. Let people know you appreciate them.
Don't let your friends and family go a day without telling them how much you appreciate them. Never make them guess where they fit in your life.
12. Be outgoing.
Never be afraid to get a little crazy and spontaneous. Step outside of your comfort zone once and a while.
13. Surround yourself with those who make you feel good.
Don't stick around the crowd who puts you down. Make sure you surround yourself with people who appreciate everything about you.
14. Treat yourself once and a while.
You deserve to buy that expensive thing you've been dying to buy. Don't torture yourself by constantly saving. You only live once.
15. Expand your friend group.
Don't be afraid to branch out of your typical friend group. It's always good to make new friends.
16. Good things come to those who wait.
Don't sit around expecting things to come your way when you want them to. Things will come to you unexpectedly.
17. Love yourself
It may be easier said than done, but make sure you love yourself. Make sure you love your body, how you look, and everything about you.
18. Always be humble and kind.
Like Tim McGraw said, always be humble and kind. Make sure you appreciate what you got until it's gone and make the most out of everything you have.
19. Live your life. There are more lessons to come.
Your life is only just beginning. Make sure you make the most out of the memories and remember that more lessons are coming.
Through out my 19 years, I've made sure to keep track of lessons life has thrown at me. Whether it be a lesson or a blessing, life has been a crazy journey, and it's only going to get crazier. Buckle up.
