19 Things I Learned By 19 | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Health and Wellness

19 Things I Learned By 19

Another year older, another year wiser, right?

7
19 Things I Learned By 19
Marissa Reilly

I've reached another year of life and, while 19 does not provide some big milestone, I decided to reflect on a lot of the things I've learned in my life thus far. Aside from the basics of learning how to walk and talk, there's been a lot of growing and learning, especially in the last couple of years.

1. You will have different friends within different stages of your life.

The friends you have during elementary school, middle school, high school and college are more than likely not going to be the same people. You'll grow and change through every stage which may not happen at the same pace of your friends.

2. Life is full of curveballs.

But, "don't let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game." (A Cinderella Story)

3. Find balance.

Make school a priority, but don't let one thing control your life. Make time for family, friends, and hobbies, as well as your own personal time.

4. Family is the most important thing.

When push comes to shove, your family will be there for you unconditionally.

5. Just be honest.

I've come to the point where I'm not a kid anymore but I'm also not completely an adult. But in entering this "adult world" I've learned that most people will appreciate an honest answer rather than a lie or embellishment.

6. It's okay to fail.

No one is perfect, just make sure that you learn and take something away from the situation.

7. Stop worrying about what other people think.

In the end, you're going to be the one stuck with your life. Don't make choices that are beneficial to someone who doesn't have to live your life.

8. Netflix does not judge.

Okay, well maybe a little bit when they ask if you're still watching, but don't be ashamed to have a movie night rather than going to that party.

9. Laughter is the best medicine.

Sometimes the only thing that can cure your heartbreak or stress is just having a fun night with your friends.

10. It's okay to cry.

Don't be afraid to let it all out, you'll just feel worse if you let it all bottle up.

11. There's nothing wrong with going against the grain.

Don't feel pressured to do what everyone else is doing. Do what makes you happy.

12. You can't survive on four (or less) hours of sleep every night.

I'm a college student, you should just trust me on this one.

13. It's okay to not have a plan.

It's also okay to change that plan fifteen times.

14. Get involved.

Whether it be in your community, school, or politics, don't be the only one without an opinion or a place to be.

15. Find a creative outlet.

It could be painting, making music, or even writing for The Odyssey, but make sure you find a way to stimulate your mind.

16. Your parents are right 99 percent of the time.

As much as I hate to admit it, I should've listened to them a lot more.

17. Don't hold grudges.

They're pointless and you'll feel like you're really maturing when you can let go of something, even when the other person can't.

18. Don't be afraid to do things not everyone will be happy with.

There are a lot of people in my family who don't approve of tattoos, but they were always something I wanted. It doesn't harm me or anyone else, and they make me happy.

19. Life is what you make it.

Not happy with how you look? Make a change. Your grades aren't what you hoped? Study more. Feeling lonely? Reach out to more people. No one can live your life for you.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Featured

15 Mind-Bending Riddles

Hopefully they will make you laugh.

180390
 Ilistrated image of the planet and images of questions
StableDiffusion

I've been super busy lately with school work, studying, etc. Besides the fact that I do nothing but AP chemistry and AP economics, I constantly think of stupid questions that are almost impossible to answer. So, maybe you could answer them for me, and if not then we can both wonder what the answers to these 15 questions could be.

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

Most Epic Aurora Borealis Photos: October 2024

As if May wasn't enough, a truly spectacular Northern Lights show lit up the sky on Oct. 10, 2024

7417
stunning aurora borealis display over a forest of trees and lake
StableDiffusion

From sea to shining sea, the United States was uniquely positioned for an incredible Aurora Borealis display on Thursday, Oct. 10, 2024, going into Friday, Oct. 11.

It was the second time this year after an historic geomagnetic storm in May 2024. Those Northern Lights were visible in Europe and North America, just like this latest rendition.

Keep Reading...Show less
 silhouette of a woman on the beach at sunrise
StableDiffusion

Content warning: This article contains descriptions of suicide/suicidal thoughts.

When you are feeling down, please know that there are many reasons to keep living.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

Power of Love Letters

I don't think I say it enough...

452596
Illistrated image of a letter with 2 red hearts
StableDiffusion

To My Loving Boyfriend,

  • Thank you for all that you do for me
  • Thank you for working through disagreements with me
  • Thank you for always supporting me
  • I appreciate you more than words can express
  • You have helped me grow and become a better person
  • I can't wait to see where life takes us next
  • I promise to cherish every moment with you
  • Thank you for being my best friend and confidante
  • I love you and everything you do

To start off, here's something I don't say nearly enough: thank you. Thank you, thank you, thank you from the bottom of my heart. You do so much for me that I can't even put into words how much I appreciate everything you do - and have done - for me over the course of our relationship so far. While every couple has their fair share of tiffs and disagreements, thank you for getting through all of them with me and making us a better couple at the other end. With any argument, we don't just throw in the towel and say we're done, but we work towards a solution that puts us in a greater place each day. Thank you for always working with me and never giving up on us.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

11 Signs You Grew Up In Hauppauge, NY

Because no one ever really leaves.

23341
Map of Hauppauge, New York
Google

Ah, yes, good old Hauppauge. We are that town in the dead center of Long Island that barely anyone knows how to pronounce unless they're from the town itself or live in a nearby area. Hauppauge is home to people of all kinds. We always have new families joining the community but honestly, the majority of the town is filled with people who never leave (high school alumni) and elders who have raised their kids here. Around the town, there are some just some landmarks and places that only the people of Hauppauge will ever understand the importance or even the annoyance of.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments