The first two decades of life are a time of tremendous growth.

From a literal new-born baby to an awkward middle schooler to a blossoming young-adult, a multitude of factors shape our identity by the time we turn 20. While I undoubtedly have an immense amount left to learn, these are 10 of the most important things that life has taught me thus far.

1. There are times when you absolutely can and should put yourself first.

I am a people-pleaser. I am a work-a-holic.

Although it is wonderful to be kind and considerate towards other people and work extremely hard in school and or at your job, there are times you have to prioritize yourself.

What do I need right now? What do I want right now?

Self-care is absolutely necessary!

2. If you are bad at something but enjoy doing it, do it anyways.

By something, I mean singing, dancing, painting, etc.

Life is too short to shy away from doing something you love just because you might not be the next Beyoncé.

When I'm out with my friends and a song that I love comes on, what happens next?

Hold my shoes, because I'm dancing even though I'm horrendously devoid of rhythm and coordination.

3. There is no excuse for not drinking enough water.

Need I say more?

4. There is nothing wrong with seeking mental health treatment.

We all deserve to be living our best possible lives, and sometimes that isn't possible without some professional help, and that is okay.

Mental health professionals can do wonders to assist with a variety of mental health issues. They can even be as simple as a trained listening ear that knows how to respond.

I repeat, there is absolutely no shame in seeking help if you feel you need it. In fact, it's admirable.

5. I can't take the people closest to me for granted.

Part of growing up is growing distant from some long-time friends, and that is a-okay.

Such a process makes us more grateful for the people who have stayed with us through life's highs-and-lows.

If someone genuinely supports you, wants to see you succeed, and is there for you through it all, it would be a colossal mistake to take this person for granted.

6. If a friend isn't holding up his/her weight, the friendship is not worth it.

Is there anything more awkward than constantly being the first one to reach out and the only one to ever initiate plans? Yeah, no.

7. You can't let fear of getting hurt keep you from letting people in.

If initially, you feel hesitant to let someone into your life, then that is natural and healthy.

All humans have this defense mechanism and there are certain situations where it is beneficial.

However, problems arise when this wall, or fear of getting hurt, significantly hinders your ability or willingness to make new friends or fall in love with someone new.

We would be doing ourselves a monumental disservice if we never let new people into our hearts. They deserve a chance.

8. Receiving an education is a blessing.

The world can be a scary and confusing place, and we are lucky to be receiving an education to help us navigate it.

Knowledge is an extremely powerful tool denied to many.

9. If you think you might be interested in something, you owe it to yourself to try it.

Again, life is short.

You've always wanted to try surfing but can only imagine yourself falling flat on your face? Try it, why not!

10. There is no reason to shy away from recognition of an achievement.

You don't have to think you are the you-know-what to enjoy being recognized for your hard work and achievements.

It's not self-centered or arrogant to attend academic award ceremonies or accept being MVP of your sports team.

You may not love being the center of attention, but allow others to celebrate you for just this second. You deserve it!