19 is a strange age. You're officially "grown up," but you still haven't taken on the real world just yet. These are 19 facts of life that every 19 year old has come to learn and live.
1. Don't dwell on the past.
The past is sometimes beautiful and sometimes terrible. One thing it always is is over and done with. Most of the time, there is nothing we can do to change things that have already happened. Let the past mold you into a better person, but don't let it define who you are today.
2. Look forward to things.
Looking forward to things can make the bad days a little brighter. Oh, it's a dreary Tuesday afternoon and you have an Econ exam at five? Friday is only three short days away! You are so over your Business Calc class this semester? Good thing summer is in a month!
3. Live in the moment (to an extent).
Remember the motto "YOLO"? While this isn't an excuse to make poor life-altering decisions, it is a good excuse when you just can't decide if you want to go to that concert last minute (bank account willing). If an opportunity arises and all the pieces fall into place, go for it and have fun while you can!
4. You will never have this much "free" time ever again.
It may seem like you just have so much to do between class, homework, studying, meetings, extracurriculars and a part-time job. However, for the most part, all you have to worry about in college is yourself. What you do with your time is up to you. Not an employer, family, etc. Enjoy the flexibility while you still have it!
5. Travel while you can.
Traveling while you're in college is great. Being young means you can sightsee all day and go out all night, unlike all of the retired folks. Aside from school, there aren't too many responsibilities holding you back. If you use apps like Groupon or Kayak, you can find some awesome deals for a weekend getaway or summer vacation.
6. Make lists.
Lists help compartmentalize things in your brain, making it easier to realize when you get something done or reach a goal! You can legitimately make a list for everything. Make a list of things you need to pick up at the store. Make a list of characteristics you want in a significant other. Make a list of shows you want to binge-watch on Netflix.
7. Money isn't everything, but it's something.
When choosing a major, money shouldn't be a deciding factor as to whether or not you want to make something your career. Money shouldn't determine relationships you have with people. Money is not everything, but it is something. Learn how to budget now, so when you actually are making bank (hopefully), you know how to handle it. Prepare now for later!
8. Health is wealth.
Healthy habits need to be started while you are still young and full of life. Find what works for you! If you hate running, don't resort to running as your only form of fitness! You'll learn to hate fitness in general. Instead, try a Zumba class or weight lifting. Whatever works for you, go with it! Make it a habit and you'll see results. Remember to stick with it though—like everything else, it takes time!
9. Set goals.
This one is almost a given. Goals are so necessary, both short-term and long-term. The feeling you get when you reach a goal cannot be compared to anything else! Dream big and work hard, and the results will come.
10. Life is short.
When you step back and look at the whole scheme of things, the lifetime you live is so very short. This isn't supposed to scare you though—it should only serve as a motivation to get more done while you can!
11. Kill 'em with kindness.
Did you know it costs $0 to be nice to someone? Even if you're personally having a horrible day, it doesn't mean you should be mean to the barista at Starbucks when they mess up your order. You will feel better about yourself while making others feel better.
12. It's totally okay to change your mind about things.
There are so many decisions to make at this point of life. From choosing a school to choosing a major, these choices impact us for a lifetime. That is why it is okay to change your mind if you don't feel comfortable about what you've chosen so far. You don't want to sacrifice a lifetime of happiness all because you were afraid to change your mind once.
13. The truth is always somewhere in the middle.
Drama is, unfortunately, inevitable. When things get hectic, the truth sometimes gets lost. While the opposing sides are arguing that their story is the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth, it is more likely than not that the truth lies somewhere in between the two. By keeping this in mind, it's easier to make sound judgments and assess the situation with a clear mind.
14. Love anything and everything.
Maybe it's naive, childish or foolish, but loving life is so much easier than hating it. Find a way to love as much as possible. Love yourself, love your job, love your major, love your family, love your friends. You'll begin radiating happiness and feel the impacts in all aspects of your life.
15. Respect the opinions of others, even if you don't agree.
Chances are that most people are not going to agree with every single thing you say. And chances are that you are not going to agree with everything everyone else says. You must still respect their opinions because it makes it easier for that respect to be reciprocated. Even if they don't respect you or your opinion, you end up looking like the bigger person.
16. Don't be afraid to voice your own opinion and remain true to yourself.
You should never be too scared to say how you feel about things! Don't conform to the crowds around you if it is a topic you feel truly passionate about. Stay grounded and remain consistent in your arguments. Even if it feels like you're the only one feeling a certain way, it is more likely than not that someone else out there feels the same way—you just haven't come in contact with them yet!
17. Pay attention to politics.
I know, I know. Politics and the media seem like such a drag these days. However, it impacts you more than you think. Whether you like it or not, politics play a major role in our day to day lives, so get informed! Register to vote! You don't have to be posting about it all over Facebook like your uncle does, but it is nice to know you're doing your job as a citizen.
18. Take care of yourself—mentally, physically and emotionally.
Life gets crazy. Sometimes we forget to check in on ourselves, but it is definitely something you need to remember to do. Taking care of yourself now will save you tons of trouble down the road and gets you into habits that will last a lifetime.
19. Embrace change.
Things are bound to change. Instead of dreading it or being afraid, take it head-on. Allow yourself to grow with the changes, not against them. Life is meant to be lived.
