Turning 18 is a right of passage. You are now somehow an adult, even though a month or two ago you had to ask someone to go to the bathroom. Despite the fact that the tables have just only started to be turned to the adult world, you have learned and experienced many things in this first part of your life. I know that a lot of ideas and views on the world have changed since elementary school, so here are 18 life lessons that i've learned in my first 18 years.
1. Learn to say "no" without having to explain yourself.
You don't always have to give someone an explanation as to why. Just say no and move on.
2. Life is never fair and it never will be.
It's just one of those harsh realities that we have to face at one point or another. But once you come to terms with the fact that life may knock you down time and time again, it is easier to appreciate the lows with the highs.
3. Always know who is on your side.
Establishing who really has your back is important. And if you don't know where you stand with someone, you might want to start walking.
4. Draw, paint, write, or color even if it isn't very good.
Take it from Bob Ross, creating something whether professional looking or not, can make you feel so much better.
5. Naps can soothe the soul.
Stressed? Just nap it out. But you also need to make sure you know the difference between a much needed nap and just avoiding things with sleep.
6. It's OK to not be OK.
And it is definitely OK to tell someone when you aren't OK. Don't let your feelings stay bottled up, it will only create more stress for you in the long run.
7. Coffee is a treasure.
OK, not everyone likes coffee, but it is probably one of the best you will ever discover once you grow a taste for it.
8. Appreciate alone time.
You don't always have to be doing something with someone. Watch a movie alone in your room, read a book while home alone, and just rock that "me time."
9. Never give up on something you want.
Push for it. Go out and and make it happen. You will regret not trying your hardest for something--or someone.
10. There is literally no shame in working in food services.
Work is work, and you'll probably make some friends along the way.
11. Don't spend your entire paycheck on food and shopping.
You'll regret it, promise. Save your money and make sure you choose wisely when it comes to going out.
13. Don't take any love you receive for granted.
Some days will come with little to no love, and you will wish you would have appreciated it more.
14. Don't try to impress people with what you have.
Impress them with what you know.
15. There is such thing as too much pizza.
Eat a salad every once and a while, it won't kill you.
16. Be kind to every single person you meet.
You are not better than anyone, so there is no need to act like it.
17. Just tell them that you love them, don't hesitate.
Give as much love as you can and never ever apologize for loving too much,
18. Don't ever take a day for granted.
One day you are 8-years-old playing outside at recess and then you blink and you are 18 walking across the stage to get your diploma.