Life teaches us new things each and every day. Some lessons are easy to learn and others not so much. Every lesson, though, is necessary. I’ve only been alive for 21 years but I’ve learned so much already. Some things that I’ve learned should have been “no brainers” or something that is common sense but in many cases we don’t think about them. Here is a list of 21 lessons that I have learned in my 21 years being alive.

1. Seeing your ex with their new girlfriend/boyfriend will hurt, but you can either let it destroy you or make you stronger.

2. There is no “winning” or “losing” in a break up.

3. You are allowed to say no.

4. You will never completely agree with someone’s actions, but unless they’re causing danger to someone’s life, respect their decision and support them as a human.

5. When someone does you wrong don’t plan revenge, plan for your happiness and success. That is the best form of revenge.

6. You can be successful at thousands of things but you will never be truly successful until you find happiness in what you do.

7. Never cheat on your partner. If you are not happy then leave. Trust me when I say that it does less damage that way.

8. If you are ever cheated on, just know that there is nothing wrong with you. You did nothing to deserve it.

9. If you are dating someone and see a red flag, do not ignore it. Ask them about it and go from there.

10. Eat the ice cream. Order the pizza. Do whatever you want. Calories don’t run your life. Splurge sometimes.

11. Be careful what you post on social media. You never know how it will affect your future.

12. Any extra credit opportunity you are presented with – DO IT.

13. You don’t have to be married by 22 and having kids by 25. No one will be disappointed in you.

14. Make a “hitched list”. A list of everything you want to do before you get married and then accomplish them.

15. Appreciate your parents. They know more than you.

16. People change. That person you met three years ago that was so sweet and naïve probably isn’t that way anymore.

17. Your mental health comes before everything.

18. You are too old to be acting like a child, but too young to be acting like a 30-year-old at a boring job. Have fun, make memories, but remember, you need to act your age. No one wants to hang out with a 20-year-old that acts they are five,

19. TREAT YO' SELF.

20. One day, your best friend may become a stranger, but don’t worry. Soon, a stranger will become your new best friend.

21. Life isn’t to be lived for fame.