Recently, I stumbled across a quote by Steve Maraboli that says,"This is my life... my story... my book. I will no longer let anyone else write it; nor will I apologize for the edits I make." These words really hit me hard and made me realize that in life, I am in sole control of my own. Recently, I've turned to others too often for opinions and to make difficult decisions for me. I'm starting college in the fall, therefore I must break this habit before I'm on my own.

With great power comes great responsibility.

Once you turn 18, you feel invincible, and like no rules or restrictions are holding you back. However, that couldn't be more false. When one goes through the transition into actual adulthood, the game changes. Suddenly, you can buy tobacco and lottery tickets, but also get arrested and tried as an adult. You can legally move out and live on your own, and much more. Most believe that independence is of utmost importance in the process of becoming a responsible adult. I believe that interdependence is of great value and a necessity to becoming a responsible adult.

Interdependence: the dependence of two or more people or things on one another.

It is very important to seek out the people that you connect and work well with as you grow and become more mature. The people you have a natural chemistry with will be the ones you stick with for a long time, even for life. However, even with those friends and family in your life, you must remain true to yourself. Like Maraboli"s quote, one must not let anyone else write their story, nor fall into criticism for it. Others may inspire your life story and play important supporting characters, but should not contribute themselves to the diction. Personally, I still need some work on this, for I often find myself handing the pen over to others, such as friends and family.

It's okay to ask for advice and help at times, but with limitations.

Sometimes, when faced with difficult decisions and life challenges, it's easy to fall under the control of those around us. While it may not be a bad thing or it may be in their best interests, there's a point where dependency becomes toxic. It's hard to see this happen most of the time, for the outside assistance makes our lives significantly easier. However, one must step away and look at the bigger picture and find dominance over themselves once more. With that being said, here's a sign: if you're reading this, take back the pen and paper and write YOUR story. Let your heart and soul pour out into life and continuing on the right path. As clique as it sounds, you only live once... so truly live!