They say that every year you grow, you become a bit wiser than the one prior. Throughout the last year, I can say that I have learned more about myself and my life than I would have expected, and I can say that this marked a strong period of growth, hope, and strength in my life. My birthday was just last month, marking my last year as a teenager. Here are 19 things that I have learned throughout my life so far, and 19 things that I wish I would have known years ago.

1. Self-love is the best kind of love.

Make sure to keep that in mind, not just during the week of Valentine's Day, but every single day. It is important to prioritize yourself, treat yourself to something special once in a while, and love the person that you have grown to become.

2. The people who fight for you are the people who deserve a place in your life.

It is hard to lose friends, especially when you grow apart from one another. However, if a friend isn't treating you right, it is important to recognize that you deserve better. The people who prioritize you and ensure you're happy are the people that belong in your life, not the people who don't.

3. Staying in is important for your mental health.

While it is hard not to succumb to the pressure of going out and spending time with your friends, it is important to have a night in sometimes. Get comfortable in bed with a tub of ice cream and binge watch your favorite movie- I can guarantee you that you won't regret it.

4. It is okay to cry.

When times get tough, it is important to let out your emotions rather than concealing them and ultimately, becoming more stressed because of it.

5. Stick to your passions, even if people don't understand or agree with them.

Make sure that you continue to do and pursue what you love, regardless of what the people in your life have to say about it.

6. It is absolutely essential to bum as often as you find necessary.

While we all love dressing up and looking nice, don't prioritize it over feeling comfortable for your early classes or lazier days. Especially after not getting much sleep, the feeling of wearing yoga pants and a sweatshirt to class is especially comforting, and you won't regret it. I can guarantee you a good majority of the people will be dressing down as well.

7. Your parents often know what is best for you.

While it is easy to stray away from your parent's or from the rules or advice they have for you, it is essential to keep in mind that a good majority of the time, they are often right about things. My parents have sensed when I surround myself with negative people before I do, and typically provide the wisest advice even when you wouldn't expect it.

8. Never apologizing for feeling the way that you feel.

While others may not always understand your pain or have words to help you through certain situations, it is essential that you never say you're sorry for the way that you feel in life.

9. Take classes that you are interested in

The best way to succeed academically is to take classes that intrigue or interest you, so when trying to fulfill certain requirements, involve yourself with courses that relate to your passions.

10. Heartbreak sucks, but you will get through it.

Take it from personal experience, you deserve better, and you will find better.

11. Spend time with your grandparents and your elders.

As someone who never had the chance to meet any of my grandfathers, it is important to spend as much time with them as possible and to treasure every second.

12. Stand up for what you believe in, even if it is not the norm.

Expressing your passions is essential, and you are bound to make a change.

13. Sometimes, stepping out of your comfort zone will help you find who you really are.

It is important to take risks in order to get over your fears, find yourself, and grow mentally and emotionally.

14. Don't be so hard on yourself.

We can't always avoid the pain that comes with life. If you're experiencing hardship, let time and strength find its way and I guarantee you will feel better soon. It is okay if it takes time to be happy again, but you will find your way there.

15. The little things matter the most.

While it is cliche to say that money isn't everything, I can guarantee you that I have the happiest of times singing old Disney music with my roommate or going to the gym for a few hours. It is important to recognize how so many of the smaller aspects of life can contribute to so much happiness.

16. Being alone helps you find who you really are.

Do your best to not rely on having friends or a significant other always by your side. Finding yourself through being alone is essential.

17. Music can help you through anything.

As self-explanatory as it sounds, listening to sad music on difficult days helps you feel understood, and listening to happier music on the better days contributes to the most positive of mindsets. Let music help you heal during rough times and let it make you smile during the better.

18. Aim to live in the moment.

Social media isn't everything. Take lots of pictures, but also be sure to maintain a balance of appreciating the good times without having to post that it exists.

19. You're about to enter the real world.

With one more year as a teenager, you have to start to face the reality that you're about to face the real world. However, it is the start of a wonderful adventure, and I am so excited to pursue it.