Not that I know everything, or even much at all, being a young college student. But, hey, I turned 21 a few months back and there are definitely a few things I wish I knew before I turned 21. This is one of the major turning points in your life. You need to learn some lessons before you transcend into the adult world. Here are my tips and tricks -- rather, important lessons -- to be learned before you turn 21 years old.
1. There are far more than 21 things you better have learned by the time you are 21 or else you’re doomed (but really).
2. Never, ever allow someone to waste your time twice, because it’s true -- nothing is worse than wasting your time.
3. It’s OK to be you, because there is no one else in this world just like you, and that’s OK.
In fact, that’s great! Embrace it with a smile.
4. “Actions speak louder than words” has proven itself to be true time and time again (unfortunately).
5. Don’t be afraid of the future.
Make your future. Make a future you want and don’t worry about anyone else.
6. Another thing -- think of yourself, sometimes.
It’s OK to be selfish. You should be happy, too.
7. Learn to love yourself, because if you don’t love yourself, how can you allow anyone else to?
8. Don’t apologize for who you truly are as a person.
When people grow up, they should mature and realize that everyone is different and has their own set of quirks and that’s awesome!
9. Step out of your comfort zone, because there is nothing worse than regret.
10. Be grateful for all that you do have instead of honing in on the bad stuff.
11. You’re going to fail in life at one thing or another, but that’s OK.
Failure means progress and learning is inevitable.
12. Get rid of toxic relationships and friendships.
I can promise you, once you get the negative people out of your life, you will have a weight lifted off of your shoulders. Oh, and there are plenty of people out there as a replacement.
13. Going off of that, there are plenty of fish in the sea. I know, cliche.
I have thought many times I wouldn’t find anyone better than (insert ignorant guy here), but believe me -- time and time again I prove myself wrong.
14. It’s OK to make mistakes, because how else would you change and grow?
15. Find the thing you're passionate about.
Make a hobby. Learn to cook, read books, or go to the gym. Take a yoga class. Find time for you.
16. Don’t let people walk all over you like a cheap throw rug.
Stand up for yourself and learn how to simply say no.
17. Find someone to be in a relationship with.
Learn what true love is like at a young age so you can cherish it when you’re older.
18. Memories are way better than anything money could buy.
Of course, usually it takes money to get those memories or experiences, but you get the point.
19. Don’t have hate in your heart or feel jealous, because I can promise you that the person you think has the “perfect life” really doesn’t.
20. You are no longer a teenager.
21. You are that much closer to 30.
While that may have been somewhat silly and lighthearted, other lessons are truthful as to how maturing into a young adult really is. Whether you are 12 or 22, each year you learn, grow, and change as a person and that’s more than OK!
