As I have recently turned 20 (yay), I have come to realize that there are a few things that are bound to happen no matter how hard I would like to avoid them. In no way, shape, or form do I consider myself to be a fully matured adult, but I do think learning the following things by the time I turned 20 has helped me prepare for my present and upcoming future.
1.
Start stocking up on ramen noodles because you are going to be a "broke college student" for a very long time. But just try to make the best of it all.
2.
The first time you fall in love is more than likely not going to be the last. Some may not be as comparable to others, but love is love. People will come into your life for a reason. Utilize them and their compassion when you have them.
3.
It is undeniable that you will grow apart from some of your friends as you grow up. You all are going to move to different places across the country, get into relationships and start your careers that will take up a lot of your time. In stead of resenting each other for that, you must cherish the time you have together before it begins to happen.
4.
Nothing in your life is permanent. It's quite horrifying to think about it that way, but it's also invigorating. But as you grow older, you learn that you have to embrace change and all it encompasses. It is all 100 percent necessary.
5.
In all honesty, you are more than likely never going to look "perfect," but regardless you are beautiful. Take a step back from that mirror and accept yourself for the way you are. You are young and radiating happiness, just own it!
6.
There may be some times where you feel as if everyone else is living their own lives and you are secluded on an abandoned island. That's okay my friend! In the end, you can always rely on yourself for everything.
7.
There will never be a time in your life where you won't need your parents. So it's a good thing that you're stuck with them forever!
8.
Sometimes you're going to feel disappointed, unappreciated and defeated. You'll overcome it, I promise.
9.
You're going to change your mind about things a million times before you decide on something final. But you can't feel guilty about leaving a city, career or even relationship if it's what's best for you in the long run. Changing your mind is what you're supposed to do!
10.
Your college degree, major or job history does not entail you to an easy ticket anymore. You're going to have to try harder than ever before, because the job market just isn't the same.
11.
The past is gone. You cannot change it. You cannot improve it. It is as it is. So accept it, learn from it, and move on.
12.
Being a good person isn't always going to come easily to you. You are going to encounter people and situations that make doing the right thing difficult. Sometimes you're going to have to fight for what you believe in, even when people don't see eye to eye with you.
13.
If you think that it's possible to be universally liked, you are going to kill yourself trying. So accept it now that not everyone is going to like you the way you are.
14.
You're going to misjudge people. Don't beat yourself up about it though.
15.
When you do find your person, they aren't going to be perfect. Your relationship (or marriage when you're older) will be hard at times. It isn't about thinking someone is perfect, it's all about knowing they're perfect for you. You need to find your best friend, not your "dream" man or woman.
16.
Your body is going to change. Whether it's due to the freshman 15 or not having the time/money for a gym membership, you're not always going to look as fit or as plush as you once did. As I said before (see number four), you are beautiful just the way you are. Your body is supposed to change, just like everything else in life.
17.
You're going to fall on your face (literally or metaphorically) many times. This could be due to classes, relationships, or really anything, but it will happen. You just need to brush it off and learn from your mistakes.
18.
Not everything will be like you imagine it. You may not want to dish out the money you need for the wedding you have planned for yourself on Pinterest or your dream job. And that's OK!
19.
Your core values will not always line up with those of the people around you. But you need to stay true to yourself and your beliefs.
20.
You're going to feel like a different person in a few years, and probably know a heck of a lot more than you do now. It's important that you remember who you are in your heart. Love freely. Move towards your biggest dreams. Accept imperfection. Realize that life will get messy, but them remember that it's a beautiful mess and it's all yours.
