So I felt like embracing my role as the "mom friend" for a moment here to give you some helpful advice. A lot of these points are things I learned from experience, and some of them are things I've heard from my elders. Either way, take a look at this list; I bet at least one of these twenty "life lessons" will resonate with you in some way.

1. It's okay to cry. Your tears do not make you weak.

2. You’re allowed to choose your mental health over your grades from time to time.

3. Forgive yourself for mistakes, but don’t forget to learn from them.

4. Never, ever get drunk by yourself. You’ll drink more than you should and you won’t have anyone to cry with.

5. You’re not a fool for giving someone a second chance.

6. Stand up for yourself; it’s nobody else’s job but your own, so don’t expect anyone else to always step in.

7. It’s okay to party on a weeknight - just know the consequences if you choose to do so.

8. If you’re feeling the urge to compliment someone, do it. Nice words can go a long way.

9. It’s okay to admit that you miss someone, to their face or to yourself.

10. If you’re feeling down, walk down the street and smile at all of the people you pass. Ask if you can pet their dogs, or tell them that you hope they have a good day. I promise you, your heart will feel lighter, and so will theirs.

11. Don’t be afraid to make art just because you don’t think it’ll be any good. Everyone with creative intentions can call themselves an artist. Draw, paint, sketch your heart out.

12. Make your bed every morning. The neatness of it will calm you before you head out to tackle the day.

13. Take care of yourself on Sunday mornings. Make yourself a mug of tea and wait for your laundry to be done in just your pajamas. Take a warm shower. Get yourself ready for the week ahead.

14. If you’re hungry, eat. It seems silly until you’ve started to look at yourself harshly in the mirror. You’re beautiful, now go get a snack.

15. Feel your feelings to their fullest extent. In the moment, you’re allowed to be sad, or happy, or whatever you are. Feel your feelings until you’re ready to deal with them in your head.

16. Treat yourself now and then, but do this in moderation. Save money in small amounts - you’ll thank yourself later.

17. It’s okay to turn down your friends sometimes when they ask you to hang out. Your alone time is just as valid as their togetherness - just don’t make a habit of it or you’ll grow lonely.

18. Listen to music of all kinds. Fill your soul with the sounds of the past and the present.

19. Invest some time in growing plants or in taking care of a pet. Breathe new life into your world and surround yourself with the energy you've nurtured.

20. Always love passionately and freely. Don’t be afraid to get your heart broken; there’s really no stopping it, so you might as well enjoy the ride.

I hope you found these tips and recommendations to be at least somewhat helpful! After all, we need all the help we can get in this world, right?