As 2017 has come to an end and 2018 is beginning, it is normal to reflect on the past year and think about everything that is still to come.

Personally, this year has been the most formative and challenging year yet. Between hardships there have been some of the best times of my life yet, and I have met some of the greatest people this year alone. As thankful as I am for all of the events of the year, I am ready for everything 2018 has to bring.

That being said, here are some of the most important things I have learned in 2017

1. You cannot make everyone happy, but you can make yourself happy regardless.

It’s easy to get caught up in trying to make others happy, but do not let yourself get lost in that mix. You have to start with YOU and putting yourself first. You cannot make everyone happy no matter how hard you try, and you cannot make ANYONE happy if you aren’t first happy with yourself.

2. It is NOT selfish to “treat yo self.”

Our twenties and college years are times to explore and do what we can for ourselves, before we have major responsibilities of families and careers. Take advantage of being young. Spoil yourself if you have a little extra money. Take a night to yourself with a glass of wine and a bubble bath- do what you need to do to take care of yourself. It is not selfish, it’s healthy.

3. Not everyone is meant to stay in your life.

This isn’t high school anymore. The people you thought would be in your life forever may not even stay by your side through the first year you are in college. That is okay, if people are meant to stay in your life they will, don’t stress about the people who walk out because there will be better people coming.

4. People can surprise you and become lifelong friends.

On that note, while you may lose friends you’ve had for years, you may gain friendships in the most surprising of people. This year alone, I have gained 4 friendships with people who I can say without a doubt will be in my life forever. It does not matter how long you’ve known someone, but how you treat and care for each other. Let these people surprise you.

5. Every single thing that happens, is meant to happen.

As hard as life gets, every minute of every day is of importance. If one little thing had been different, my whole year could have been different. There is always a purpose for every instance- both bad and good- and God has us through it all. Trust him, trust the way your life is going, and remember that as cheesy as it is, everything does happen for a reason.

While I have learned immensely more, these five seemed to sum up the most important parts of my year. I am ready to take this knowledge into 2018 and truly make this the best year yet.