For me, twenty was a year of change. I learned a lot about myself, I learned a lot about other people. Twenty was not the worst year of my life but the year I experienced the most struggles and difficulties. As I enter into my 21st birthday, I am reflecting on the lessons that I learned.
1. You will lose some people along the way.
During your lifetime people will come and go. People are placed in your life for a reason. Each person that has crossed your path in life was here to teach you a lesson. Don’t dwell on the people who didn’t stick around. Focus on the people who currently give you what you need.
2. Your last relationship was a lesson.
You will have your heart broken a few times. Even if your last relationship didn’t work out, learn that each person taught you a lesson. Apply that lesson to your next relationship.
3. Be confident.
There are so many girls who look in the mirror and hate what they see. I want longer hair, a flatter stomach, clearer skin, the list goes on. The girl on the magazine doesn’t look like the girl on the magazine. Her face and body have been photoshopped. The media has killed our self-esteem by showing us what we should look like. It's time we love ourselves again.
4. Call your mom.
Your mom wants to know how your day was. Tell her about the best and worst part of your day. Even if you are calling her to complain, she will be happy to listen.
5. Be open minded.
Always be open minded to others opinions and beliefs. Being open-minded is an amazing quality because you are allowing yourself to become educated on different perspectives. You are allowing outside interactions to influence a more powerful mindset.
6. Strive to be the best version of yourself.
Success is crucial in your twenties. Throw yourself into your work and school. Always strive to achieve your goals, even if they are small.
7. Make memories.
You can re-take that class again but you cant redo certain memories. Go out with your friends and stay up until the sun comes up. Take the last shot, order the pizza at two a.m., just have fun.
8. Put your phone away.
There are so many great moments in life that we are missing out on because we are glued to our screens. Put away your phone and enjoy the time spent with people around you.
9. Let go of toxic people.
Toxic people effect our mental health. They control every aspect of our lives. They only provide fear and negative emotion. Invest in people who bring you happiness. You deserve the whole world and then some.
10. Never forget to tell someone how much they mean to you.
Tomorrow is never promised. Cherish time spent with your loved ones. Never miss an opportunity to tell them how much you love them.
11. Don’t let people take advantage of you.
Respect yourself enough to not let people walk all over you. Don’t let anyone take advantage of your kindness. Learn to stand up for yourself.
12. You will change.
You aren’t the same person you were a few years ago. Your experiences will form who you are. It’s normal that your views and perceptions on certain things will change.
13. Appreciate the small things.
A kind gesture goes a long way. Appreciate people who hold the door or smile in passing. Compliment a complete stranger, it could make someones whole day.
14. Learn to let go of past regrets.
Life is a journey and you will make mistakes along the way. Instead of thinking about the “what if,” focus on positivity. Don’t hold onto grudges.
15. Stay healthy.
Go to the gym and actually sweat. Find a work out that you enjoy. It's important to incorporate a healthy lifestyle. Working out is also a great way to reduce stress and anxiety.
16. Travel.
It’s time to go explore the unknown. Be adventurous. Find the natural beauty of every location.
17. Actually listen to your dad.
Your dad is the person with the best advice. Don’t ignore what he has to say because its important. His lessons will be useful down the road.
18. Forgive.
The only person you hurt from not forgiving someone, is yourself. Its time to let it go and learn to forgive others. Let go of the baggage and move forward.
19. Life goes on.
There are times when life won't seem fair. You will experience days that will leave you screaming at the lop of your lungs or crying your heart out. Some days you will feel destroyed beyond belief. Keep your head held high because life does go on and you will get through it.
20. You’re doing better than you think you are.
You have an amazing support system. You have money in the bank. You have somewhere to rest your head at night. You have food on the table. Be proud of everything you've accomplished.
