Fall means September, and September 18, I turn twenty one. I've gone through quite a bit over the years. I've learned to walk, talk, write, type, do math (although not well), ride a bike, and so much more. I have gained some, I have won some, and I have lost things, but I have found others. I've learned that strength is something you choose. Here are 21 things that I've learned in my years of life.
1. You’re going to go through heartbreak.
At unexpected times. Everyone experiences this in different forms throughout their lives, whether it be a breakup of a significant other, or a death in the family, or even both in the same week.
2. Don’t worry about impressing everyone.
Don’t try to get everyone to like you. This just hurts yourself and makes you seem fake. It ruins your chances at a unique personality. Don’t let that happen
3. Living in the past only holds you back from achieving things in the present and the future.
Memories are precious, and you should hold onto them. But looking back on mistakes and chances you should have taken but didn't is only hurting your future. Learn from your mistakes, don't dwell on them.
4. There's not always a correct answer for everything.
There isn't a right answer for everything you'll encounter in life. Sometimes you will be wrong, and that's okay.
5. You will ride the struggle bus for many years.
Occasionally you'll step off the bus and feel like you have it all together. But don't worry because you don't need to have it all figured out right now.
6. When you love someone, tell them.
You never know when the last time you will see a person will be. Whether it's a person you're interested in spending your life with, or a relative that you care about, let them know.
7. Being short sucks.
Short jokes, elbow rests instead of shoulders, "how's the weather down there?", etc. We can't reach the top cabinet in the kitchen, but at least we don't hit our head on many things.
8. Spiders are scary.
Whether I'm 6 or 60, I'm still going to hate them and fear them. I can barely kill them on my own because of my fear that they will crawl on me or jump at me. Yes, I embrace the fear. But that one is never going away.
9. Steer clear of creepy clowns.
Twisty, I'm talking about you. Creepy clowns in South Carolina, I'm talking about you too.
10. Life is never completely set in stone.
Just because you have a set plan for your life, does not mean you cannot change your mind. Feel free to switch your major a few times, get a different job, or change schools.The possibilities are endless.
11. Left loosey, righty tighty.
Because I still say this to myself every time. It just happens. And then there's Bath and Body Works, trying to confuse us with Wallflowers, because they screw in the opposite way.
12. Take a deep breath.
You may be busy with school, work, and trying to see your friends, but you will find a rhythm that works for you and your life.
13. The quickest way to end a friendship is playing UNO or Monopoly.
Okay, maybe it's only for an hour, or a day, but it is not just a game. It is real in the moment, and you just want to win.
14. Smile more.
Not the creepy, "Smile, it looks better on you" that men tell women that they don't know. When you're happy, smile and say hi to people you know, and even fellow employees that you may not know at work. You'll probably brighten their day, and maybe even improve theirs.
15. Treat people with respect, even if they don't treat you the same way.
You will feel happier.
16. If nothing else is right, find a dog to pet.
Even if you're allergic. Stock up on those allergy meds and hug a dog. They will love you unconditionally. If you have the means, buy a dog. Go to a shelter and save a dog's life. They will save yours too.
17. Don't be afraid, or ashamed to ask for help.
Ask for help when you need it. Parents for money, professors for advice on studying for a class, friends for help with anything.
18. Family is everything.
Some are dysfunctional, and that's okay. My family is large and crazy, but loving. Family is important.
19. Despite BFF's, best friends aren't always forever.
And that's okay. People grow so much over their lifetimes. Even in a short span of years, people grow apart and have different interests, and dreams.
20. Perpetual happiness is not a requirement for living.
It's okay to feel sad. You don't have to be happy all the time. It is acceptable to cry.
21. Life is meant to be lived.
I'm not trying to sound cliche or like i'm promoting the overused "you only live once" motto to forgive stupidity. I'm saying take some chances. Don't hold back. Be who you are and don't be afraid. Or be afraid, and live in spite of those fears. Achieve everything in the midst of those fears.