This past week I've had some time to reflect back on the first 20 years of my life, being my birthday was just this Thursday. When thinking about everything that has happened and certain areas of struggle with events I've been through, I feel that it's fair to say I've learned quite a lot.
1. Be your own amazing unique person.
In life, I have found that it is so important to be your own individual and not to depend on other people. Of course, is it important to spend your days with people who you enjoy, but above all it will really only be you when the curtain of life comes to a close.
2. Not every person you lose, should be considered a loss.
I find that it is 100 percent impossible to go through life without experiencing loss. Whether it be a friend who doesn't want to spend time with you anymore, or someone who doesn't make you feel as great as they used too, know that some people were put into your life to teach you a lesson. So pay attention.
3. Where you are right now, is exactly where you should be.
A lot of times, our brains take us though a day of thinking, "Am I doing what I should be doing? Am I where I need to be?" I have learned that wherever you are in life, is all part of the plan. Some days will feel like the world is crashing underneath your toes. You are where you need to be right now, you're doing better than you think.
4. Nobody really cares if you don't go the party...
You might think that everyones going to notice that you didn't go out that one night with the crazy party, but the truth is nobody noticed. If you've had a rough day and want to sit on the couch and stuff your face and binge watch your favorite show, do it.
5. Mastering the art of time management might be the greatest skill you learn.
Learning how to manage your time is undoubtedly one of the hardest things to master. It is the most important skill to have, and once you master it, your entire life will slowly, but surely fall into place, my friend.
6. Change is hard, but it's unavoidable.
If you're anything like me you'll become stiff at even the sight of the word "change." When things are changing in your life, you just want to run back to anyone or anything that feels familiar. But, you can't. You have to stand up to the world, and let your life shift. Soon enough, everything will feel normal. Until the next change...
7. Always make time for your parents.
Your parents are so proud of you, for everything you've overcome. Make time for them, spend time with them, give them your time. They gave you so much of theirs.
8. Never choose a boy over your best friend.
Regardless of how much you love a boy, your best friend has been there with you through it all. It might sound very cliche but it's so important to remember who would pick up the pieces if your heart cracked.
9. If someone is bringing you down, know enough to walk away.
If there's someone in your life, that are constantly bringing your mood down, know that this is not longer benefitting you in a positive way. Have enough confidence and drive to remove yourself, for you.
10. Ice cream can fix anything, this is scientifically proven.
Your moods may get a little crazy somedays, but ice cream can always fix the problem. This isn't just my advice — take it from Michelle Tanner.
11. Focus on the goal at hand, and don't let anything get in the way
Know that when you have a goal set, it is part of the plan to achieve and strive to meet your goal. You can't let anything get in the way, or you'll never get there.
12. Be 100 percent in love with yourself before you love him.
You will never be 100 percent happy in any relationship until you love yourself, completely. You need to believe and love you, before he can.
13. Treat yo self. But not so much so that you can't afford your books next semester.
It's very important to strive and buy yourself things, its all part of being independent. But don't buy yourself a $400.00 purse and then need to take out a loan for books (I've been there).
14. Go back to your hometown more often.
Go home, when you need too. It doesn't make you weak, to lay on your mom's bed and help her cook dinner. The best therapy I've ever had.
15. Go to class/work everyday.
It's your job. We all need to get serious about things we say we are committed too, so even when you don't feel like it, go.
16. If you can't pull yourself together, coffee can.
If you're having the worst of the worst of days, turn to coffee it'll help you more than any advice.
17. People will doubt you. Persevere.
In life, no matter what age you are people will doubt you. People want to see you do well, but never better than them. If people are calling you out/looking for way to make you seem stupid or small, it's always jealousy. Don't take people like that seriously for a second.
18. Let go of your fears.
You will waste your time, if you do not face your fears. Learn to make peace with your mind, and move forward.
19. Love, love, love.
Try your best to spread love with everything you do. People will always remember your kindness.
20. You are still growing and learning.
You're not supposed to have it all figured out. Part of life is growing and learning and as long as you're still trying you're doing the best.
I don't have it all figured out, but i'm trying. Try. Believe. Love. Trust. And just be. The rest will work itself out. I promise.
