Life lessons. They are the lessons that we gain from the old and wise who have been around longer than we have, who have stories that we read about in history books, and who are usually right about everything. Throughout our lives, we collect these life lessons and use them in some way to help us better understand the meaning of life. As I enter into a new decade of my life, I cannot help but reflect on what I have learned about life since I have been alive.

1. You become confident when you stop caring about what other people think about you.

The best feeling is when you can finally be yourself.

2. Failure is the best way to learn.

Your mistakes should not define you, but should help you grow.

3. You have to work hard to get to where you want to go.

Hard work always pays off in the end.

4. It is okay that your plans change, as long as you change with them.

You should be open to change because you will learn to appreciate new opportunities.

5. Friends come and go.

You may not be friends with the same people forever, but you will meet new people along the way.

6. But family is forever.

Your family is usually your biggest support system and will always be there for you.

7. Never give up, no matter how hard it becomes.

It is important to face your problems instead of giving up because of them, as they could allow you to gain the strength you need in life.

8. Don't obsess over finding love. Let it find you.

If you spend time searching for love, it may not be what you are looking for.

9. See the beauty in each day.

Good or bad, you should appriciate each day and be thankful for it.

10. If something is important to you, find a way to make it happen.

Things that you care about will always be a priority.

11. Be different.

Following what everyone else is doing is boring.

12. Always treat others with respect.

You do not have to agree with everyone, but you should respect them.

13. Develop your own opinions and figure out where you stand.

Figuring out what you value can allow you to stand up for what you believe in.

14. Make your health a priority.

Focus on your health now. Your later self will thank you.

15. Don't get caught up in what everyone else is doing.

Who cares what others are doing?

16. Love yourself.

Spend time loving yourself.

17. Don't be afraid to try something new.

Live outside your comfort zone.

18. Focus on your future.

The work you do now will help you be successful in the future.

19. Don't forget God.

Prayer is powerful.

20. Enjoy the journey.

Life is a journey that you can't plan, so embrace it.

Though I have only been alive for 20 years, I think that I have gained enough experience to begin to understand how “life” works. Each day is a new day, and it can be so unpredictable. I find myself learning something new each day about the world and about myself that I did not know before. It is important to remember that life is about growth, and that it is unpredictable, but that is what makes it truly amazing.