Living on this earth for 21 years has taught me a lot of things. Even though I am still young, I feel as though I learned a lot, especially throughout high school and college. I learned a lot about myself, how I operate in relationships, and how I respond to different situations life throws my way. So, here are 21 things I learned by the age of 21.
- Don’t Fear Change
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I’m the type of person that doesn’t function well with big life transitions. I hate the feeling of not knowing how the future will unfold, but change is inevitable. It’s all about how you respond to change and take that challenge head-on. And change doesn’t always have to be a bad thing; it can actually be a really great opportunity for you to experience new people, places, and things and grow as a person.
- Spend More Time With Your Family
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Your family is so important. Especially your parents and relatives, they are only getting older so cherish the time you have with them while they’re still here. Make it a point to see them more often, tell them you love them, and hug them a little longer.
- Being Single is Kind of a Blessing
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We all fantasize about being in the relationship of our dreams, however, sometimes we forget how much work goes into a relationship. Some relationships can be really loving and amazing. You get to spend every day supporting and growing with your best friend, however, the reality of it all is not every relationship is sunshine and rainbows. Being single allows you to focus on yourself and only worry about you. Kind of an empowering feeling, right?
- Asking for Help Doesn’t Make You Weak
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I am the queen of not asking for help because I hate feeling like I’m relying on others. I like feeling and knowing that I am capable of figuring things out on my own. However, I have learned that sometimes I need to wave a white flag and ask for help so that I’m not drowning in all of the things that are stressing me out. Always remind yourself that asking for help doesn’t mean that you’re not strong enough. Everyone needs help from time to time and that’s okay.
- Joggers
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They’re amazing. Invest in 1,000 pairs.
- Don’t Chase Happiness
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If you’re constantly chasing happiness you’ll never be happy. Instead of saying, “When I have this job I’ll finally be happy,” or, “When I get into a relationship I’ll finally be happy,” or, “When I have this many followers on Instagram I’ll finally be happy.” Instead of waiting and hoping for happiness to fall into your lap, take control of your own life and embody happiness. You’ll attract all of the positive things into your life in due time.
- Self-Sabotage is Your Worst Enemy
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So many people fail to realize that self-sabotage is your biggest competition. Negative self-talk and doubting yourself is what keeps you from living your best life. Believe in yourself and all of the things you are capable of.
- Never Settle
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So often we just take what we can get, but why settle when we can get what we want and deserve. Never accept the bare minimum and get comfortable with welcoming things, people, or opportunities that don’t fulfill you.
- Mom Actually Does Know Best
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Yes, mom knows best. Listen to her advice and what she has to say. She has some pretty good advice and your best interest at heart because she loves you.
- It’s Okay to Say No
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Piggybacking off of point #8, don’t be a yes woman. You don’t have to say yes to every job opportunity, friendship, relationship, or decision put in front of you if it’s not what you want. Saying no is okay and never feel bad for it. Do what’s best for you and do it unapologetically.
- For the Love of God, Learn to Save Money
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Saving money is such an important habit to form. By saving, you’ll always have money for a rainy day. Set aside a certain amount of money each paycheck and you’ll have less stress.
- Embrace Who You Are
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Yes, we all have flaws and imperfections but they’re what make us so unique. Learn to love every aspect of yourself and never apologize for who you are.
- Forgive Yourself
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Give yourself a break. Sometimes we mess up and make mistakes or maybe we don’t quite live up to our own expectations we have set for ourselves, but beating ourselves up and focusing on the bad is the catalyst for the negative self-talk I touched on before. Look at your mistakes as the driving force for you to do and be better. Making this change in your perspective will help you have a better outlook on life.
- Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream is Iconic
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Seriously, buy this stuff. I spend $45 on this bum bum cream with zero hesitations and you should too. It will change your life.
- You Don’t Always Need Closure
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Sometimes we get so worked up about getting the closure we need that it drives us to the point of insanity. We feel we need all the answers to our questions in order to move on from a situation. However, sometimes closure can hurt you more than the unknown does. Change your perspective and look at every experience as a learning opportunity and it will help shape the way you approach new situations or relationships in the future.
- Your Intuition Is Always Right
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Trust your gut because you’re more intuitive than you think.
- Not Everyone Has the Same Heart As You
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This was a hard pill for me to swallow. Not everyone thinks, operates, or feels the same as you. We’re all different and we all approach life in a different way. Take pride in the way you care for people and don’t let this stop you from being compassionate and empathetic.
- Self-Love Is So Important
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I can’t stress this one enough. Self-love and confidence are so important. I used to hate the saying, “You can’t love someone else if you don’t love yourself first,” but it’s honestly so true. Whether it’s a romantic relationship or a friendship, loving yourself first is the healthiest way to find true happiness in life. Loving yourself first and foremost is the foundation to build relationships with others.
- Be Mature Enough to Own Up to Your Mistakes
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This is hard for many but once it’s mastered, being able to admit when you’re wrong shows a level of maturity and self-growth. We as humans can be so quick to point fingers or blame others when sometimes we ourselves are at fault.
- Everyone Is in Your Life for a Reason
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There is a reason for every person that’s ever come in or out of your life. Both positive and negative experiences have an impact on how we grow as individuals.
- Do NOT Mix Your Alcohol
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Please don’t do it. You’ll regret it in the morning, trust me.