As I prepare for finals and the end my freshman year of college, I have realized that I am not the same person I was 5 years ago when I was a freshman in high school. I am not the same person I was even a year ago. College has really open my eyes to things I'd never realized. In just one year, I went from a high schooler to a mature adult that has made some realizations on life. I know I am still young and have much to learn, but here are seven things that I have learned that I wish my 15-year-old self knew.
1. It is not the end of the world.
No matter how hard you think you have it now, it is not the end of the world. You will always have ups and downs throughout life, but it's how you handle them that show just how strong you are. So the latest rumor or gossip is not the worst possible thing that will happen, just laugh it off. Most likely it will be old news in the matter of a day, two at the most. I know that is easier said than done, but the longer you mourn about it, the longer people are going to remember it or the longer you will feel bad.
2. If they aren’t there to uplift you, they shouldn’t be there.
In life, we meet so many people. Some end up being amazing friends, some great acquaintances, and some are just there to tear us down. Even if they seem to ruin every part of your life, remember they were put there for a reason and to teach you a lesson. However, that does not mean that you have to put up with it. If they are constantly depressing you or raining on your parade, it is time to ditch them. The sooner that you end the connection, the sooner you get to be happy and be you.
3. Family is everything.
Remember that lesson that Stitch taught us so long ago? It goes something like this, “Ohana means family and family means no one gets left behind or forgotten.” This is so important! Your family is there to help you and support you. They are meant to be proud of you and push you to follow your dreams. They may not be your blood relations, but whoever believes in you and loves you is your family. Just know someone is behind you, rooting you on. Love them and return the family.
4. If it isn’t making you happy, you shouldn’t be doing it.
Do what makes you happy. That is what everyone tells us, but sometimes they are also pressuring us to do what they want or think is best for us. If it’s not what you want and it is not making you happy, then it’s not meant to be. Explore your options in everything and choose what fits for you. You are the only one who has the right to decide for you. So, when it comes to what you want to study, what career you want, or what school you wish to attend, do what you fell will make you happy. And if it doesn’t, try again. No one gets to live your life but you. Make it the best and have no regrets.
5. The first guy that gives you his attention is most likely not your “soulmate.”
Just because he is the hottest guy on the team or the sweetest boy that you meet via friends or school functions does not mean that it's love at first sight. Having a boyfriend doesn’t have to be your top priority. It's alright to be single and figure out who you are before you find your other half. You kind of have to know who you are and what you want before you find the person who can fill that role.
6. Embrace the small things.
These are the things that are going to stick with you the rest of your life. These are the things that you are going to look back on some day. These are either going to make you love your life or regret everything. So, spend as much time with your friends as you can, love your parents and listen to their advice, call your grandparents just to talk about life, and enjoy the time you have with your loved ones. Find your fit and run with it. Just embrace all that life has to offer you.
7. Trust in God no matter what.
“Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don’t try to figure out everything on your own. Listen from God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; He’s the one who will keep you on track,” Proverbs 3:5-6.
He has a plan for you and it will help you to get to where you are going. Don’t question it, trust Him and go with Him. God will be with you every step of the way, but you have to listen and trust in Him.
