When it comes to college life, it can be incredibly stressful. With the papers, exams and projects, it is impossible to do it all without losing your mind. In times of incredible struggle, I turn to my cat for comfort. I've interpreted some of her actions as lessons about life. Hopefully, you can learn a little bit from the tiny creature she is.

1. There is always time to take a nap.

When the going gets tough, sometimes you need to just take a nap and try again later. I've seen her sleep in some of the most random places such as my kitchen chairs, shelves in my closet, a laptop bag and on my coffee table. If she can sleep in all of these places, you can find somewhere and some time to take a nap.

2. Sometimes you've got to jump and reach for what you want.

In life, there are going to be times when you think your dreams aren't attainable. My dream is to be an author. My cat's dream is to rip my curtains down. If she can jump, reach and achieve her dream, so can you and I. Don't give up. Sometimes the best things are a jump and reach away.

3. Screaming is sometimes appropriate.

We've all had those days when we could just scream until our throat hurts. My cat meows in long, disturbing shrieks when she really wants attention. It makes her feel better, and screaming might make you feel better, too.

4. If you're not happy with something, get rid of it.

Don't sit idly by and let disaster unfold. Whether it's a club that you've gotten too involved in, a relationship that is toxic or a class that you can't seem to do well in, get rid of it. Cut it out of your life and implement more positive things. When my cat doesn't like something, she hides it. I have yet to find her Halloween witch's hat that I bought a while back.

5. Apologize.

Grudges don't make anyone feel better. They only prolong the negative feelings you have, and can do more harm than good. Sometimes all you need to do is say that you are sorry and everything will be okay. When my cat scratches me, she licks me as if she's apologizing. I always forgive her.

6. Sometimes you have to hurt people.

If something is bothering you, and nothing is being done to fix it, sometimes you have to take matters into your own hands. Occasionally, that means hurting someone's feelings, ending a relationship or being brutally honest. If it is harming your life, do what you need to do. My cat never hesitates to scratch me when I pick her up on my terms rather than hers.

7. Give gifts.

The best medicine is improving the lives of others. If you are having a bad day, give a gift to someone who might be having a worse day. It's a small gesture that can have a big impact. My cat brings me things all the time such as pine needles, socks and, on occasion, dead mice. It makes my day more interesting.

8. Love.

It's a simple word that speaks volumes. Allow yourself to love and be loved, but most importantly, love yourself. Once you can accept who you are, everything else will fall into place. The affection my cat gives me is enough to know that we are bonded by love.

So yes, life can be crazy. However, I have found that sometimes we forget the obvious. I hope my cat, Nilla, has enhanced your life with her wisdom. What lessons have you learned from your pets?