Another year has past and 2018 has started. This means incomplete new resolutions and a bunch of people taking their holiday decorations, however, it also means reflection.

After a very tiring year, here are some of the biggest lessons that I took from 2017.

1. Friends are more important than romantic relationships

Even though romantic relationship are important too, the platonic connections you make with others get you through the times when you feel lonely. Don't take them for granted.

2. Family will never leave you

Family is blood and blood will always have your back. Don;t forget to call your parents or your siblings sometimes, because you never know when you could lose them.

3. There’s nothing books, good music, and T.V. can’t fix

I learned something over the summer. Reading with an album in the background really soothes the soul; and for those sleepless nights when you can't stop thinking, T.V. is the best distraction.

4. Don’t ever quit if it’s something you’re passionate about

After a semester of hard and long work hours, I found that quitting was never a option. I wanted to quit, but it was important to me and the reward felt so much better than immediate relief.

5. Some people will never see eye-to-eye with you and conflict is inevitable

This is pretty self-explanatory, but basically, sometime you can't change someone's mind, so don't fight too much.

6. If someone doesn’t bring joy to your life, leave them behind

Life is too short to carry on with toxic and angry relationships.

7. School is always important, but having fun is also important; it’s all about balance

As someone who tends to work too hard, I'm still working on this, but I have realized that working needs a reward sometimes.

8. Someone’s intentions with you should be obvious, if not, they’re not worth it

9. You must have confidence in order to succeed in anything

Be willing to stand up for yourself, ask questions, and don't be afraid to show the world what you got.

10. The use of plastic straws should be limited

(The video explains it all...)

11. Stand up for yourself and those who can’t

After a year of Donald Trump as president, there are more oppressed voices than ever. Speak up for you, your family, and your neighbors.

12. Always defend what you believe in

"Man is what he believes" - Anton Chekhov

13. Love and unity is more important than power and money

14. Having standards does NOT mean you’re picky, it means you know your self-worth

This is for all the women who have been told they are "too picky" - don't be afraid to get what you want. After all it is your life!

15. The world’s problems are also your problems, pay attention

Here are the most popular news stories of 2017 if you want to catch up!

16. Make time to be creative even if it seems you have no time

A creative heart needs to be fueled, and those with a more logical brain need a bit of a break now and then too. Find something that can inspire you!

17. Bad things happen, it never hurts to smile and laugh

Happy New Years and cheers to 2018!