On March 25, I will officially turn 19 years old and begin my last year as a teenager. I’ve now just discovered, it’s more terrifying when I say it out loud or put it on paper.

Throughout the course of my life, there have been many skills, lessons, and experiences I’ve been blessed to learn about, ones that have prepared me for the future and provided me with opportunities far beyond what I could have ever imagined. With that being said, here are 19 things I have learned over the course of 19 years.

1. Try your hardest to break out of your shell.

This has been a struggle for me since day one. Though with a little bit of practice, and while being surrounded by the right people, it’s begun to fade slowly but surely.

2. Don’t be afraid to cut toxic people out of your life.

If they don’t bring out the best in you and/or constantly put you down, why bother keeping them around?

3. Surround yourself with positive people.

Keeping the second one in mind, find those friends you instantly connect with, who fill you up with positivity and reassurance!

4. Don’t fear judgment!

Another lifelong battle I’ve struggled with but have been working to overcome. Why should it matter what the world thinks? If you’re unsure about trying something new because of what others might have to say, don’t let that stop you!

5. Be open towards the future.

Yes, it’s terrifying to sit and think about. But it’s unavoidable, and better to embrace and be excited for what is to come rather than turn away.

6. Don’t take anything for granted.

Whether it be the big things or the small things, know that everything in life is a blessing.

7. Don’t be afraid to speak the truth.

You never know, it could lead to something extraordinary.

8. Explore any newfound passions that come your way.

Like the truth, these can lead you towards opportunities you never imagined receiving.

9. Hard work pays off.

Anything from a job to studying for tests, you’ll know the feeling.

10. Having a positive mindset works wonders.

If you tell yourself you can achieve something, or work to find the best in everything, you’ll start to see a big difference in yourself!

11. Self-care, both mental and physical, is essential.

Finding the time to take care of yourself in times of stress can lift a huge weight off your shoulders.

12. Everything happens for a reason.

Your life will play out the way it’s supposed to.

13. Don’t compare yourself to others.

You’re only putting yourself down if you do.

14. Stepping away from the technology isn’t as bad as you think.

Get away from social media, put down your phone, and go look at the world around you. There’s PLENTY to discover.

15. Learn to find the beauty in your surroundings.

You’ll never know what you might find right before your eyes.

16. It all starts with “hello”.

Every friendship, every relationship... keep this in mind always.

17. Your past doesn’t define you.

We all make mistakes. We were all “the weird, awkward kid” at some point in our lives, but that isn’t your label for life!

18. You don’t always have to follow the crowd.

In terms of trends, whether it be clothes, music, or interests, conforming to what others value most isn’t always the answer. Developing your own style and interests is OKAY and, personally, a LOT more fun.

19. Be proud of each work you do.

A good test grade, an Odyssey article, or generally going out of your way to do something good. It’s all something to give yourself a pat on the back for.