Nineteen years doesn't seem like a long time to be alive, but I have definitely learned a lot throughout the years. Life isn't always easy, but it truly is what you make of it. Here are a couple of things I learned over the years and I hope others will learn from them.
1. Don't force relationships
Some people just aren't meant to be in your life. There is absolutely no point in keeping negative people in your life who don't respect you. It might be a 10 year friendship or a 3 year relationship, but if it's not working anymore, cut the string.
2. Mom usually knows what she's talking about
This seemed to be a reoccurring theme throughout high school. I knew everything, so why should I listen to my mom? This is absolutely 100% false. If you listen closely, they actually give pretty great advice.
3. Don't let politics get in the way of friendships
It's okay to have different views. You don't need to agree with everyone all the time, but you do need to respect others' opinions. Just as they should with you.
4. Educate yourself
Knowledge is all around us, and there is so much to learn. There is no way to possibly learn it all before you die, but hell, you might as well try.
5. Find your passion in life
Sometimes this might be extremely easy, but it might also seem terribly difficult. You might think that there is nothing in this world that you are good at, but try some new activities-- painting, photography, guitar, football, or maybe its just food (that's fine too).
6. Let your voice be heard
Express your opinion on a controversial matter. Speak up in class. Don't let the fear or being wrong limit you.
7. Take care of your body
Try new foods. Fill your body with nutrition. Go ride a bike. Go for a walk with a friend. Get out and enjoy the world, because it has so much to offer.
8. Question life
Have you ever looked at the stars and wondered what the hell was out there? Have you ever questioned your existence and why you were put on this Earth? Question life. You might learn a lot about yourself.
9. Make mistakes
Mistakes are what teach us to get up and try again. Without then, we aren't learning how to better ourselves. Make mistakes over and over; it builds character.
10. Tell someone if you have feelings for them
This is something I never really understood. People are strung along in relationships wondering if the other person feels the same way. Don't waste time. Take a chance.
11. Take nap when needed
To all the college students out there, you know what I mean. Some days you just need a nap. After a long night, a long day of classes, or even a short day, just take one. You definitely will feel better afterwards.
12. Lying will never benefit you
Nothing good will ever come from lying to something. You might not get caught but you will personally know what you did. Honesty is the most important quality and eventually the lies will catch up to you.
13. Talk to your grandparents
This is something that I wish I did more often when I was younger. I wish I was able to learn more about them: what they were like when they were younger and what they thought of the world. It's important to know your roots and grandparents usually have great stories.
14. Keep a balanced life
Don't let someone or something take over your life. An eating disorder, alcohol or en ex. You want to grow from all of these unhealthy things instead of letting them eat your mind. Remind yourself of all the good you have in your life, even if it may not be clear at times.
15. Try to save money
I tend to be random things that I don't even need. Looking back on all the stupid sh*t I bought growing up, I could have saved so much money. Sometimes it's nice to have spare change sitting around if you really want something. Ask yourself "do I really need this" when you are about to check out.
16. Accept when you're wrong
I really struggle with this. I have a mentality where I really really hate being wrong and I never want to admit it. I'm still working on this one.
17. It's okay to not have a plan
I am a sophomore in college and I am just now figuring out my plan. Just because you have a plan, does not necessarily mean it will happen. It is always nice to have an idea of what you want out of life, but it is okay if you don't. You will figure it out.
18. If someone makes you genuinely happy, keep them around
Genuine people are hard to find nowadays. If you find someone that tends to make you laugh until you cry or compliments you on your off days, treasure them. Let them spark your happiness.
19. Don't stick to your comfort zone
We all have that little niche where we feel so comfortable, but sometimes you need to try something new and exciting. You might be surprised about what you find.
Be young. Express yourself and stay open to all the possibilities the world offers.
Whether you knew these lessons or not, they are so important to live by. And I hope you take them to heart when living your life day by day.
