Since turning 19, it now means I'm finally a legal adult (thanks Nebraska) and for me, each year comes with it's ups and downs. However, with each of these situations a lesson comes out of it. These lessons help and shape a person into who they are today. Here are only a few of the lessons I've learned in my 19 years of life...

1. Your current situation isn't your future destination

Life gets tough, but anything can change in the matter of seconds. Don't let a few bad seconds milk it into one whole bad day.

2. It's okay to ask for help

I have a hard time learning this one. People are around to help you, you don't need to do everything by yourself.

3. Volunteer when you have extra time

Paying it back to your community is always a good thing to do. Especially when it can brighten another persons day.

4. Always smile

A friendly smile can make any situation better.

5. Toxic friendships are never worth it

You may have been the best of friends senior year, but you start to realize who they truly are and what you really mean to them. If they aren't willing to go the extra mile that you've already gone, it's not a friendship.

6. When you have a chance to stop and enjoy God's beauty, take it

"He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end." (Ecclesiastes 3:11 NIV)

7. You are number 3

God. Others. You.

8. It's okay not to be okay

You don't have to be okay every second of every day. We are humans, we have emotions.

9. You don't always know what others have been through

The way you say things may affect them in ways you never thought of.

10. Don't get involved in bad situations unless you are directly involved

Staying out of dramatic situations is a good thing. Sometimes the people directly involved just need to vent about it. Be a listener.

11. Forgive others

No one should hold a grudge against another for their whole life.

12. Always choose kindness

No one likes the mean person. Choose to be that kind light in someone's life.

13. Time goes by very fast

Once you graduate high school, the days seem to go by so fast.

14. Always keep an open mind

Being clouded by your comfort zone may make you miss once in a lifetime opportunities.

15. Keep in contact with your high school best friend

My best friend and I have talked practically every day for about 8 years now. Never lose a friendship because you don't have time to communicate, make time.

16. Staying organized will save your life

Sticky notes and calendars are wonderful things that have ever been created.

17. It's okay to say no

You don't always need to pick up those extra shifts at work (unless you really need the money) or go out every night with your friends. Sometimes nights by yourself with your favorite Netflix shows is what you need to relax.

18. You don't need to be busy every second of every day

Again, it's okay to just relax for a bit.

19. Live your life for Christ every single day

"Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint" (Isaiah 40:31 NIV)