The first 18 years of your life define who you are for the most part. Sure, you'll mature and grow, but for the majority, you're set. In a world as hectic and tragic as ours, it's amazing good people come out of it. Maybe these are romantic notions, but I like to believe that everyone is truly good at their core and that life works itself out positively. Unfortunately, these aren't always true. This realization has made me learn a few key lessons that I will always carry with me.

One. Your parents will be your biggest supporters. No matter how much you argue with them, they will still love you no matter what. Even when you're a spoiled, selfish brat, they'll defend you and love you. God knows I fight with my parents like it's a job. You also probably did at the ripe age of 17, so ready to thrust yourself into the adult world and prove yourself. Even when you're an "adult," though, mom and dad will still come to your rescue.

Two. Blood does not make your family. I have many people in my life that I wish I could claim as my blood relatives. Whether it be their influences in my life or simply the goodness of their souls, I want so badly to call them my family. Believe me, I have plenty of "family" I wish these great human beings could replace. That's not the way the world works, though. It's better to focus on those surrounding you than those related to you.

Three. Do not waste your education. Education is what keeps us safe from ignorance, so it is imperative that we treat it like a privilege. Never let anyone or anything come between you and your education. I have seen too many people give up the longtime benefits of education for short-term perks. It really isn't worth it. My education is what I am proudest of in my life. It has prepared me for a successful life, and everyone has the right to it. Don't give up that right.

Four. People will let you down. If I had a penny for every time someone let me down, I would have more than a few dollars. I'm sure you can relate. While you should never lower your expectations in a relationship or friendship, be prepared for mistakes and bumps in the road. People will typically let you down more than they please you. Always forgive someone, but don't forget what they've done.

Five. Honesty is the best policy. Lying will only make your life miserable. It becomes so hard to keep up with the lies you've told that you will ultimately ruin all of your relationships. A real and raw connection with someone is so much more valuable than a shallow friendship built on lies. How you treat people is a reflection of your character, and if you constantly lie, you aren't painting a very pretty picture of yourself.

Six. Trust your gut feeling. If someone gives you a weird vibe, do not pursue them. If a situation makes you uncomfortable, remove yourself from it. Keep yourself out of trouble and surround yourself with people who want to see you thrive. Most want to see you fail. Your life and future are in your hands, and if they're jeopardized, more often than not, you can only blame yourself. Stay responsible.

We all need guidance at times, but looking inside ourselves is typically the best way to go. You know yourself better than anyone else, and what you have learned will be different from what I have learned. We all live diverse and distinct lives, as our paths all vary. While someone else's may look smoother and brighter than yours, it probably isn't. Just trust in what you have learned and look up. Your core values are what keep your head above the water.