2016 has been an interesting year for most of us, including me, to say the least . But I have learned so much and have learned so many valuable lessons. I feel like the lessons I learned definitely vary, but they all have taught me and have allowed me to progress. This has probably been my best year. I have had the most fun, done the most things and have truly become a mature person. Here are four things that this year has taught me:

1. It's cliche but don't judge a book by it's cover.

I feel like I hate to say it, but like most people I can be pretty judgmental. It's just human nature and honestly, I don't feel horrible about it. But I feel like this year I have learned to look past a first appearance and try to get to know people better. By doing that, I learned how to create bonds and friendships. I have made so many new friends this year and created so many great bonds and connections.

2. Forgive!

I am not going to lie, I feel like I am weird when it comes to forgiving people. For some people I forgive more easily and for other people, it takes me longer to forgive and move on. But this year I have learned to truly forgive and move on from situations. My mother always tells me that when you hold a grudge, you only hurt yourself. I have definitely learned to forgive and move on. I have moved on from bad situations and have forgiven people who have truly and deeply hurt me. I feel better after growing up, maturing and moving on from hurtful situations.

3. Step out of your comfort zone.

I did that a lot this year and part of late 2015 as well. The last year has been stepping out of my comfort zone and finding myself by trying new things. I have taken classes that I would normally never take, have talked to new people, tried different things out and foods that I normally wouldn't. Life is better when you change things up!

4. Tie up all your loose ends.

This year, I definitely have learned this lesson and I think it's most important because it's so crucial to get rid of old baggage and move on life. I tried to run away from my problems for a long time, and by problems I mean move on from problems and unresolved friendships and issues. But those are the problems that hold you back; they have held me back from moving on. But this year I have learned to move on from the past, tie up all my loose ends and find peace with myself. Instead of running away from my issues, I have learned to tackle them ahead and deal with everything and find peace.

Wishing everyone a blessed and happy new year!