About two weeks ago, I celebrated my 19th birthday. Amidst all the fun of reminiscing with my friends and family, I got to thinking about all of the things I've learned over the years. Knowledge passed to me from family, teachers, older friends, and a few things I picked up on my own. Here they are, in no particular order:
Other people's opinions of you don't matter. Do what you want to do, and don't let anyone stop you.
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Everyone has their own best interest in mind. Even you.
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Adults aren't always right just because they're adults. They make mistakes too.
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But most adults, especially teachers and your parents, have your best interest in mind.
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You should never pretend to agree with someone just so they'll like you. It's important to have your own opinions and be able to think for yourself.
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It's also not okay to disagree with someone out of spite. If someone else is right, admit it and move on.
People change. People leave. Even the ones you thought would always be there.
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Spoiler alert: NO ONE has life all figured out, no matter how they make it seem.
You will probably get your heartbroken, and you will probably break someone else's heart.
People will definitely try to pressure you into doing things, and sometimes you may not even realize it. Be careful.
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However, just because someone asks nicely doesn't mean you have to do anything you don't want to do. Saying "no" is okay.
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Some people just aren't meant to be in your life forever, and that's okay.
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It's important to decide what your beliefs are and why you believe them before you get to college.
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Spend as much time as you can with your family now, because there will come a day when you don't all live together anymore. I promise you will miss them.
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If your goal is to have a relationship like the ones in romance movies, you're always going to be disappointed. Real love takes work.
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You are not entitled to anything. Sometimes (most times, in fact,) you're going to have to work for what you want.
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The right thing and the easy thing are rarely the same.
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Everyone has an opinion, and everyone thinks that their opinion is the only one that is right. Be patient with people, and don't waste your life on petty arguments.
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And most importantly: Strive for happiness. Don't chase after fame or money if what you're chasing is not something you're passionate about.
Giphy Report this ContentThis article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.