As a sophomore in college, a lot of people in my life (myself included) are starting to think very seriously about their futures. An unavoidable topic that seems to slip its way into every conversation is one that makes me feel both incredibly excited and altogether terrified. I'm talking, of course, about marriage. For a long time, I couldn't help but live for the day when I could walk down the aisle. I imagined being overwhelmed with love for my wonderful husband, starting a family, and growing old together.
While those things are still dreams that I look forward to, I've realized that at this point in my life, I need to be living for myself. I am in no way saying that people my age shouldn't be dating, or even falling in love. But we still have so much life to live, so why not slow down and enjoy the time we have while we're young? There are so many things in life to fall in love with besides a boy.
1. Your Passions
Whether it be a college sport, your major, volunteer work, art, music, or anything that makes you happy, fall in love with it. Put your whole heart into your passions. Don't let anyone tell you what paths you should follow. If you have a dream that brings you joy, run with it.
2. Your School (and college life in general)
At what other time in your life will you be able to decide that you're taking your best friend to Taco Bell at 3 a.m.? Let me answer that, NEVER! Take advantage of all that college life has to offer. Fall in love with the new people you've met. Fall in love with learning. Fall in love with your freedom. You don't have to answer to anyone but yourself, and college should be a time of exploring your interests and finding what makes you enjoy life.
3. Your Friends
Nothing brings love into your heart quite like friends that seem like family. Spend time with the people that make you a better version of yourself. Stay up all night laughing with your roommate. Go on a study date with people in your classes. Plan lots of girls' nights. Fall in love with friendship.
4. Your Faith
No matter where you stand in your faith life, never be afraid to embrace what you believe in. Every day, life tests you. Don't let your struggles cause you to turn away from your faith. Let your faith guide you in your decisions, failures, and accomplishments.
5. YOURSELF
This right here is the most important thing you will ever do. Fall in love with yourself, and the rest will fall into place. If you can be proud of who you are, all other relationships in your life will be so much stronger. Realize that no one is perfect. Make mistakes, and make them again. Go down the wrong path, and then find the right one. But no matter what you do, never stop loving yourself.
