"The strong bond of friendship is not always a balanced equation; friendship is not always about giving and taking in equal shares. Instead, friendship is grounded in a feeling that you know exactly who will be there for you when you need something, no matter what or when." - Simon Sinek

Recently, I've taken a step back to appreciate how blessed I am to have my friends. Since elementary school, I've developed friendships and relationships with amazing human beings that continue to impact my life today. I consider myself lucky because I truly believe God has put each of these people in my life for a reason, and I cannot comprehend my world without them. I am making a conscious effort to never take these friendships for granted and value them to the highest degree, because these relationships have shaped me into the person I am today. My friends have influenced and taught me so much and continue to do so on a daily basis, so here are nine things I've learned from my favorite people in the world.

1. How to be myself.

This is an ongoing process that I'm still mastering, but I think I've come a long way. My friends have taught me how to embrace my inner weirdo and be proud of the person I am. By always showing me love and kindness (even when they're giving me a hard time), they've taught me that I should be happy with myself and never be afraid to show the world who I am.

2. How to laugh and find light in any situation.

I am certainly biased when I say I think my friends are hilarious, but it's true. When I'm around them, I laugh so hard my stomach hurts. I know that no matter what type of day I'm having, they'll bring a smile to my face. They've taught me how to find the positives in a negative situation, and how to laugh at myself when I screw something up. I will forever be grateful for this, because I'll surely be dealing with mistakes and negativity throughout the rest of my life.

3. How to be confident and not care what people think.

This ties into number one, and is also something I'm still working to improve. My friends do not care what others think of them because ultimately, they will always stay true to themselves. It's crucial to have people like this in your life, because they will always be real with you and have your back. As I strive to be less of a people pleaser and unapologetically myself, I look to my friends as role models and inspiration. Because of them, I've become more confident in who I am, and I have learned to love myself more and worry about the opinions of others less.

4. How to stand up for myself.

When I was younger, I was quite the pushover and doormat. I hated this about myself, but I didn't have the courage to change. While I'm still working on it, I now have a backbone thanks to my friends. I do not let others take advantage of my kindness, and I sincerely owe this to my friends who taught me how to stand up for myself in any situation.

5. How to cope with heartbreak and be strong.

I am not unlike any other person; therefore, my heart has been broken in many different ways. I have also witnessed my friends deal with heartbreak, and this has potentially taught me nearly as much as my own pain. Unfortunately, there's been times when my friends and I have dealt with the same tragedy, and we've each learned and grown because of these terrible situations. Through their constant support coupled with their astonishing examples of strength during dark times, I've learned how to be strong as well. I know life will continue to knock me down, but I also know that I'll be able to handle whatever struggles I encounter.

6. How to stay motivated.

This ties into number five, because life often makes it difficult to stay motivated and dedicated to goals and aspirations. My friends, however, no matter what they go through, always accomplish their dreams. They are successful and resilient human beings, and this inspires me to remain driven as well. They always push me to be the absolute best I can be, and I am eternally grateful for this.

7. How to have fun.

If there's anything I've learned in my short time on Earth, it's that knowing how to have fun is essential to a healthy life. As someone who is a perfectionist and at times a bit anxious, I tend to get too wrapped up in the insignificant, minor details of life rather than simply enjoying it. I am forever thankful that my friends have taught me how to have fun and let loose, because ultimately, it is the good times that I will remember when my life comes to a close.

8. How to be a good friend.

My friends have shown me unconditional love when I've been difficult to handle. They've supported me through everything I've done, yet they've always been honest and real with me when I've made mistakes. Through their continuous love and friendship toward me, I've learned how to be a good friend as well.

9. How to be a good person.

Part of being a good friend is being a good person, and my friends are outstanding people. They are kind and genuine, and I am proud to call them my loved ones. Being around them simply makes me a better person, and I am so grateful for this. I often look at them and wonder how I've been so lucky to develop lifelong relationships with such incredible human beings.

Okay, I think I've been cheesy enough, I just really love my friends. Thank you for everything you've all done for me.