With recently turning 19, I've had time to think about what I need to acknowledge sooner rather then later. Being 19 is an awkward age because you're not yet in your 20's, but you're ready to be out of your "teen" years. I get that I'm not a life expert at only 19 and I have a lot to learn, but here is some advice from a 19 year old.
1. Make sure to always put your family first
Your family is always going to be there for you, but in college it's different. They're not right at your finger tips when you need a hug after a bad day, or surprising you with your favorite candy when you did well on your test. Appreciate them, be grateful for them for as long as you can even if they're far away.
2. Mistakes don't define you.
Don't sweat the little things. Mistakes are bound to happen, without them we wouldn't learn about who we are today, or have half of our best stories to tell.
3. Don't let a guy or girl make you feel any less than you are.
It's hard to understand when someone doesn't notice how good of a person you are. Never settle for less than you deserve just because you're lonely, because at the end of the day you'll just be wasting your own time.
4. Make time for yourself & enjoy it.
Spending time by yourself is something we all need from time to time. There’s beauty in being able to be alone for a while, and explore your mind. You shouldn’t have to feel the need to be with other people all the time.
5. Call your grandparents.
Grandparents... don't even get me started. I'm in love with mine because, well they are the best people in the world, and I know it makes their day when I call them. Everyone's grandparent's need a reminder of how much we truly do love them.
6. Know how to make fun of yourself.
Don't take life too seriously. It's all going to be okay if you know how to laugh it off and stay confident in yourself.
7. Take risks, no matter how minor or major they are.
From going to a gym class you've never been to or asking the attractive girl/guy in your class for their number, we all need to take risks, get out of our comfort zone every once and a while. Risks make life more interesting and being this young is the perfect time to do them, no matter the turn out of the risk.
8. Naps, take one whenever you can.
I think I can speak for all of us on this one. Naps are a essential part to our day. We wake up already planning on what time we'll take a nap that day. They're just great.
9. Eat that slice of pizza, that ice cream sundae, or those large french fries.
We're young. Embrace food that tastes good, and eat that salad tomorrow. "I deserve this" is my choice of words when eating something delicious.
10. Trust your instincts
No one knows yourself better than you do. That little voice in your head, listen to it.
11. Stop caring what people think.
Jealously is the highest form of flattery. Stop wasting time on people who don't know the real you and they think they do. Life isn't about getting down on yourself over people who are irrelevant. Smile, you're better than they think you are.
12. Having a dance party by yourself in your room alone, is in fact, normal.
We all do this, don't kid yourself.
13. In a bad mood? The answer is ALWAYS "The Office."
Michael Scott's face, I mean, just look at that. (You're smiling already.)
14. Stand up for yourself.
If something bothers you, say something. Don't regret looking back and not sticking up for yourself or what you believe in.
15. Guy friends are the best.
Guy friends, the ones that actually give you the inside scoop on how guys really think. "Food, sex, more food, and more sex." Is mostly what I've learned.
16. Work hard and be proud of your accomplishments.
The feeling of being accomplished of yourself is one of the best feelings. Work hard and to your greatest potential, whether it's a 4.0, talking to someone you've always wanted to talk to, or wanting to become a better person.
17. Find a passion.
Whether it's singing, dancing, writing, a sport, etc. find something that makes you happy in your free time. Be confident and enjoy what you love to do.
18. Don't be embarrassed by your music choices.
We've all been there when wanting to show a friend our new favorite song and not getting the reaction we were hoping for. "You like it?" and seeing them awkwardly smiling while you're fist pumping to your favorite song. I've realized, screw that and listen away despite what anyone says.
19. Love yourself before trying to love anyone else.
You need to love yourself before getting anyone else involved. Not loving yourself leads to insecurities and trust issues and ain't nobody got time for that. At 19, focusing on loving yourself is the best you can do.
