I'm finally 20-years-old and I can honestly say that I'm a little freaked out. Although I feel significantly older, I know how much maturing and growing I still have to do. The next ten years are going to bring a lot of lessons, a lot of change, and a lot of difficulties. No matter what my 20's decide to throw at me, I promise...
1. To put my needs first
And to never ignore them
2.To not be so hard on myself
Because I am not perfect, and I will make mistakes
3. To never compromise my happiness for someone else
I can support others without sacrificing my own happiness
4. To not give up on myself
Even when it seems like there's no other option
5. To stop punishing myself for my mistakes
Because that won't fix them
6. To let go of the negative
Carrying it forward only hurts me
7. To create
And dance and write and use my talents.
8. To prioritize the things that make me happy
I need and deserve a way to escape stress.
9. To be open to others
Because I have tried isolating myself, and I didn't feel any better
10. To withhold judgment
Of others, and of myself
11. To be honest with myself
About my needs, my wants, my motives, and my expectations
12. To experience new things
And to seek them out often
13. To challenge myself
Otherwise I will never grow
14. To nourish my body and soul
Compromising my well-being gets me nowhere
15. To demand respect
From everyone, because I don't deserve to be walked over
16. To stand by my beliefs and my values
If I am not true to my beliefs, then they cease to be meaningful
17. To remember my worth
It is not defined by a grade, a weight, or an accomplishment
18. To pursue greatness
Why should I expect anything less from myself?
19. To keep moving forward
Dwelling in the past will keep me stuck there
20. To find my own identity
I will define myself, not let myself be defined by anyone or anything else
Yes, growing up can be hard, but I will never let that stop me from growing, learning, and taking care of myself.
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