In all of my 19 years on this Earth, I can say I have experienced enough to preach some advice.
I have traveled across the world, made mistakes, and been at my highest and lowest points. Just like most 19-year-olds can say.
It's so easy to get caught up in life and not really experience it. One of my New Year's resolutions for this year was to actually live life, if that makes sense.
I don't want to just go through the motions and look back one day and say to myself, "Where has the time gone?"
So I've put together 19 things I've learned after 19 years of existence.
1. Waking up early isn't the worst thing in the world.
If we're being honest no person, no matter their age, enjoys getting up early. But I've been doing it a lot recently (forcefully) and found it actually helps me be more productive with my days.
2. Alone time is important.
It's important to enjoy your own company. Sometimes you need those days where you just do you, get sh*t done, and relax to protect your energy.
3. Be kind.
Ignore those people who say, "Being nice gets you nowhere." It's simply not true. Spread happiness and good vibes; the universe will respond with good karma eventually.
4. Cry when you need to.
Holding in tears actually makes me more sad. Just let it out, and move on.
5. Tell your family you love them.
GiphyAt this age, it's so easy to fall into the flow of life. Don't forget to acknowledge the people you have raised you into the young adult you are now.
6. People change.
And that's ok. It's up to you to accept it and move on. (AKA be like Drake.) Some people change for the better or for worse; it's up to you to decide if they deserve you anymore.
7. Self care is important.
I'm a firm believer in putting yourself first. Take a nap if you're tired, exercise, eat your vegetables, spend $60 on a facial.
8. Don't be selfish.
Though I do believe in putting yourself first, take care of others. I once saw a tweet reading, "Choose those who choose you." I completely agree. Care for the people who also care for you.
9. Tell the truth.
I can't even begin to describe the importance of honesty. I don't know if it's just because I'm an awful liar, but I always tell the truth.
To be honest, lying is a lot more work. Simply be honest, say what you need to say, and move on. It's simple.
10. Save change.
I always watch my dad leave change everywhere. And it drives me insane.
A coworker of mine told me her seven-year-old sister saved up all her change over a summer and it wound up being $70. Why can't we all be as smart as her?
11. Eat the ice cream.
Cliche, but life is too short not to enjoy the little things. Ice cream is the greatest thing on earth and should never be turned down.
12. Sleep.
It's so important. It sounds dramatic but anything less than eight hours of sleep is literally defined as sleep deprived. There is no worse feeling than exhaustion.
13. Travel.
Don't be trapped in your own environment. There's so much to see out there.
I have been lucky enough to have visited eight countries already, and I can't wait to continue doing so. Traveling allows for new experiences, people, and food.
14. Don't be afraid to ask for help.
We're human. We get lonely, upset, and needy. It's normal to need reassurance.
Tell the people you love. Don't hold back because you never know what will happen.
15. Speak your mind.
Sometimes it may seem impossible to say what you want to say. But I promise, after you get it off your chest, you feel 100 times better.
17. Spend money on concerts.
But only if it's actually worth it. What's the point in getting nose bleed seats to see Drake? Literally nothing.
18. Eat at home.
Not only does eating out destroy your bank account, but it's also bad for you. Everyone loves pizza and McDonald's, but nothing beats mom's home cooked meals. Made with love.
19. Make the most of every second.
My final piece of advice is kind of a summary of everything I've listed. Just live in the moment, but be smart.
Use common sense. Do what makes you happy. Surround yourself with positivity. (Listen to Kanye.)