As another year comes and goes, I want to reflect on the experiences that got me to where I am today. Although this list is growing every day, here are the 19 most important lessons I learned up to this point:
1. Appreciate everything you have. Life is a gift. Remember how lucky you are to be where you are.
2. When it comes to friends, always choose quality over quantity. Best friends are hard to find. So when you find them, hold on tight and never let go. These people will stand by you until the end.
3. Don’t take yourself too seriously. Let loose from time to time and learn to laugh at yourself. There is something to be said about feeling comfortable in your own skin.
4. Never be afraid to speak your mind. Your opinion matters and your voice deserves to be heard. Don’t let anyone try to silence you.
5. Hard work pays off. You get out of everything exactly what you put in. Push yourself, embrace challenge, and believe that you can succeed.
6. Surround yourself with positivity. Happiness is contagious. Get rid of toxic energy and hold onto relationships with people who bring out the best in you.
7. Give everyone a chance. Judgments are a waste of time. Open yourself up to new people - they may surprise you.
8. Trust your instincts. There will come times when you have to make important decisions. Follow your gut. It won’t let you down.
9. It’s ok to make mistakes. In fact, it’s encouraged. If you never mess up, you aren’t living.
10. Compare yourself to no one. Don’t worry about what everyone else is doing. Your best is good enough.
11. You can’t do everything on your own. It is not weakness to admit that you need help. Lean on others when life becomes a little too much to handle alone.
12. Stay true to yourself. Hold your values close to you and never compromise on your core beliefs.
13. Never give up on something you can’t go a day without thinking about. Passion is purpose. If you care about something to such an extent, do everything in your power to see it through.
14. Embrace difference. No two people are the same. Learn from others, broaden your horizons, and encourage individuality.
15. Let go of the little things. Some things are not worth harping on. Find closure and learn to forgive. There are much better ways to spend your energy.
16. Slow down every once in a while. When life gets hectic, make sure to take some time for yourself. Step back, take a deep breath, and realize that everything will work out.
17. Be yourself without hesitation. Trying to fit in is overrated. Your best self is always your most authentic one, so let that side of you radiate.
18. Make yourself proud. Set goals that are true to what you want. If you are proud of yourself, everything else will follow.
19. Live for you. This life is yours to live. Follow your heart, chase your dreams, and never let anyone stand in your way.
