Since I began college almost a year and a half ago, I came to realize that I may not be as positive as a person as I thought I was. Being positive is extremely important at 19, because this is when we are discovering and learning what it means to be an adult. However, we all know that we're not quite there yet. Throughout the past year especially, I've learned that just being positive every day isn't enough to live a positive lifestyle. Of course you're going to have some bad days, everyone does, but here are some lessons that I've learned that have helped me become the person I am today.
1. Always be thankful for what you do have.
There are a lot of people in the world that do not have half as much as you do. So if you attend college, be thankful that you're in college. Be thankful for the family you do have, the friends, or anyone that has ever supported and cheered for you. When times are tough, this may seem hard but know that there will always be someone or something there for you. And NEVER take things for granted.
2. Eliminate negative people from your life.
This is something that took me a very long time to grasp. It is also one of the most important pieces of advice that I can give. You will never be truly happy until you are surrounded by genuine, positive people. Toxic relationships, whether friendships or romantic, are not worth it in the long run and it's an eye-opening experience to be around people who truly care about you.
3. Don't forget to take care of yourself.
Remember you are still human and not invincible. Taking time for yourself is healthy and you don't deserve to be stressed all the time.
4. Continuously keep up a hobby that interests you for as long as you can.
Kind of random, but having a hobby or activity that you genuinely enjoy doing is the greatest thing.
5. Do NOT settle.
This can relate to number 2. You shouldn't have to deal with any type of relationship that doesn't benefit you or bring you indescribable happiness.
6. Try to keep a positive attitude.
Positivity is key.
7. Do everything on your bucket list.
Because why not?
8. Attempt not to judge someone or assume right away.
I know this is especially hard, because we all do it at one time or another. But giving someone a chance is one of the best things you can do. So don't listen to rumors until you hear the full story because you don't know what someone has experienced.
9. Be patient.
Patience can be directed towards a lot of things. If you don't know what you want to do with your life, be patient. If there's something you can't figure out, take a breath and be patient. Honestly, life moves way too fast to be worrying about how quickly you want to get something done. Live in the moment as best as you can.
10. Do not dwell on the past, or try to delve too far into the future.
Especially as 19 year-olds, this can be difficult. We're worried about something we did last year on top of what we're nervous is going to happen in two years. Preserve memories, do not overthink them, and try not to plan out your entire life in one night, unless you're on Pinterest of course.
11. But also, try to stay a couple steps ahead.
This just means don't fall behind. But it's completely alright every now and again.
12. Don't keep things bottled up inside.
I know this is hard for some because this is just how some people deal with emotions. Trust me, I do it all the time. So what I'm trying to say is have an outlet for you to vent. This can be a journal to write things down, or a specific person you trust to talk to. I am so lucky to have multiple people in my life that I can tell anything to.
13. Find something you're passionate about.
Having passion is what will drive you. Hopefully, at this age most of us have, do, or work towards something they're passionate about. And if you don't that's totally okay, but it's great to know that there's something that you would fight for.
14. If you love something, let it go, unless you are willing to fight for it.
I think this is pretty self-explanatory. If you really want it, fight for it.
15. Absolutely under no circumstances worry about other people's opinion of you.
Do not dwell on what others believe or think because at the end of the day, you are the one that knows yourself the best. As Dr. Seuss said, "Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind."
16. Always be the bigger person and be kind.
This is more rewarding than you think.
17. Remember it's okay to change your mind.
Truly and honestly, it is OKAY to change your mind a few times. Being indecisive is not a weakness.
18. Remind yourself every day that you can be whoever you want and do anything you want.
Every morning when you wake up, remind yourself of this. It is so important to know that nothing can hold you back.
19. Be yourself.
Be- YOU-tiful!
