In a little over a month I will be celebrating my 20th birthday. When I actually take some time and think about it, I can’t believe that I have come this far in life but I also can’t believe that I am only this far in life. At only 19, I’ve learned many important things that I would love to share. Here is a list of 19 very important things that I have learned.

1. Be YOU. No matter what you have always been and will always be your own person. You have your own brain that forms your own thoughts and opinions. Never let someone take that from you. And never ever be afraid to be yourself. If anyone tries to change you, they don’t cherish you for you, and you don’t need that type of negativity in your life.
2. Don’t Give Up. There will always be hard things going on. Life is full of trials. The best thing to do is to not give up. No matter what. Even if it feels like the world is falling in on you. Just keep swimming. Be courageous. Things will get better, in time.
3. Life Always Goes On. There will be moments that you feel like nothing will ever be the same, and that may be true. But the world will not stop spinning, time will not stop, and life will go on.
4. Smile and Laugh ALWAYS. Smile at strangers, lose your RBF. You never ever know what one simple smile could do for someone. Think about how someone smiling at you could easily change your entire mood. Always always always laugh. Even through the tough times. Sometimes laughter really is the best medicine.
5. Be Optimistic. Looking on the bright side of things can be the best thing to do. Sometimes there comes a point where you have to stop having a pity party, and you have to realize that there could be worse happening.
6. Always Take Your Makeup Off. I promise washing your face before bed and taking your makeup off will give you a blank slate for in the morning and it will make you feel better to not wake up with raccoon eyes. As well as the fact that taking care of your face is an important hygiene step.
7. Cry. It’s an important and very healthy part of life. From watery eyes and one tear, to a complete and utter breakdown. It is all important. It will relieve some stress and make you feel better.
8. Be Kind. The simplest advice. Be kind, to everyone, always.
9. Treat Yo Self. You would be so surprised at how better buying something for yourself can make you feel. Or how eating a piece of candy can melt so much unease away. Life is too short to be so stern on yourself. Give in and splurge sometimes.
10. Take Another Picture. Of a landscape, artwork, cat, or a selfie. Just take another one. Don’t stop. No matter if people judge you. A picture is worth a thousand words. Capturing the moment and the memories and being able to go back and be nostalgic is an amazing thing.
11. Confide In Someone. Everyone needs someone to talk to, cry to, get advice from, etc. I’m not talking about putting your feelings into a journal (although that’s also a great idea). I mean actually talking to another human. Scary, I know. Another person can give good advice and share personal experiences that could help you a lot. Be wary with who you talk to. Sometimes a listening ear is also a running mouth.
12. Not Everyone Stays. And that is okay. It happens. It will hurt. But you will survive. If someone doesn’t stay in your life then they weren’t meant to be there. And you may find often times that you miss them, and that is okay. You may also see that you are better off without them. And that’s okay too.
13. Dogs Are Everything. If you don’t like dogs then I am very seriously and hardcore judging you. They are so pure and loving. We don’t deserve dog, let’s be honest. A dog can do so much for a person. If you’re sad just pet and cuddle a dog or look at dog pictures on the internet. 10/10 would recommend.
14. Naps Are Essential. You will be exhausted some days, maybe even for more than one day in a row. When you get the chance, if even for an hour, please take the nap. Your body and mind need it.
15. There Will Always Be Someone Better Than You. And that is fine. It is natural and okay to recognize that, but it is important to understand that even though they are better than you at whatever, you are still amazing and one-of-a-kind. Never forget that.
16. Take Care Of Yourself. I mean this in every way possible. Physically, mentally, sexually, emotionally, etc. Brush your teeth, wash your face, take a nap, read a book, take a walk. Do whatever you need to do to take care of yourself. You only have one body. Do as you please with it but don’t kill it for fun.
17. Adventure Often. They are good for the soul. Even a simple hike or walk around a new shop downtown. Go out and explore the world. There is more to life than school and work. There is an entire world outside. Explore it. Learn it. It’s called living.
18. Change Happens. Often. Constantly. It is never-ending. And it is amazing. There will be huge changes in your life, all throughout your life. It is to be expected. Don’t be afraid. It is natural. Embrace change, take it head on, and conquer the changes in your life.
19. Do What Is Best For YOU. Always. And never feel bad for it. Someday you might have to make a huge decision and you might need to do something differently than before or from what you’re used to because it is no longer (or never was) benefitting you. Do it. Think about it and if that is what’s best (or even what you think is best) for you, then just do it. Please. It is your life. It comes and goes so quick.