As I get older, I realize that I don't have it all figured out, however, I have figured out some things and they're pretty important. I still have so much to grow and learn, and I've found figuring out who you are or where you want to go in life is never fully determined. You grow and change and follow your instincts for the rest of your life. I now know that I'm never going to know exactly who I am and that's okay, as long as I trust myself through the process.
1. Know that you're exactly where you need to be.
I've found this out through countless panic attacks. Worrying will only cause stress and essentially doesn't do anything in helping you figure out where your life is headed. I've learned to (as cliche as it sounds) follow my path of life and where I find my passion. That's the only thing you can do to ensure that you're headed in the right direction.
2. My parents are a huge part of where I am today.
Not only did they birth and raise me (thanks mom and pops), but they are the ones who have helped me through the infinite panic attacks and have taught me to follow my passion and what I'm good at, regardless of whether I'll be living off of ramen for the rest of my life. If I'm doing what I love and they're proud, there isn't really more I could ask for.
3. It's okay to break down.
I break down probably on a weekly basis whether that means internally or externally and letting myself have a good cry. These moments are okay, because they're what make us vulnerable and human, but don't have too many of them. They serve as a springboard to let everything out and then come out on top and keep pushing on. Don't ever think it makes you weak.
4. Music cures all wounds.
Make a playlist for everything (I'm 100 percent serious). What you can't talk out with your friends, sometimes it's better to sit alone and just relax while listening to a chill playlist or a kick ass one. Either way, music can heal almost anything, and if you don't believe me then you don't know what you're missing.
5. Changing your mind is okay.
Our likes and dislikes change on a daily basis and changing your mind only makes you that much closer to the rest of your life. It's perfectly okay to hate something or love something that is not necessarily the mainstream, but that's what makes it and you unique. Embrace change (even if you're not particularly good at it and it requires a ton of effort like me).
6. It's okay to be single.
There's so much pressure to find "the one" as you journey through your college career and life, but some of the best advice I've ever been told was from my mother, "It will come when you least expect it." So for now, just enjoy life and hey, being single is not too shabby. This gives you more time to be independent, learn from yourself, and focus on your passions and what you want. (Trust me I've come to learn that it's a blessing in disguise.)
7. Trust your gut.
Most of the time (and I say most of) you know exactly what's the best decision for you. Take risks, make leaps, but do it within your comfort zone. Don't push yourself to do something you're not ready for, and no that doesn't make you weak. From experience, your gut pretty much knows the best answer for you whether you want to believe it or not.
8. You're never going to stay one size forever.
You're going to outgrow your jeans, whether that means you're growing older or because you're gaining a few pounds. Your weight does not define you; so don't let it. (This is something I'm still working on.)
9. Drinks are expensive.
Sorry, I just had to throw this one in. Drinks are so expensive, so be wise with your money. It's so tempting to go out and enjoy life and once you turn 21 you feel like you're on top of the world, but you're not (sorry to break it to you). Being 21 means you're just going to be even more broke than you were before (but hey, at least you can get a nice buzz out of your "broke-ness" right?).
10.Trust yourself most importantly.
It's always nice to be there for others and to be the go to advice whisperer for your friends, but you need to put yourself first too. It's okay to pamper yourself, splurge a little bit, and take time to just be alone. Being alone can sometimes be some of the most sacred time you'll ever have, so don't waste it.
