1. It’s okay to feel lonely.

As the years pass and we become more independent, it’s natural to feel isolated at times. When the feeling comes, I try and remind myself that I’m not alone. A friend or family member is just a phone call away. Other people my age are experiencing this feeling as well, as the reins of childhood begin to melt. It’s okay to feel lonely, as long as we remind ourselves that it’s not permanent.

2. Sometimes the “right” choice isn’t the one you want to make.

When you’re young, you are quickly taught what things are right and wrong, forgivable and unforgivable. As you get older, however, the lines become more blurred. Suddenly you’re forced to consult your conscience and decide what you consider okay, regardless of what society has told you or what teachers expressed in your formative years.

3. There are individuals around you who are (smarter, kinder, more well-rounded, etc.)

Learn from them.

4. Being yourself helps forms the friendships you actually want to have.

A false version of your identity is only going to bring people similar to whatever you’re putting on. If you are willing to accept your crude jokes or weird interests, you’ll meet other people who enjoy the same things.

5. Phones are going to destroy us.

Technology is so advanced it scares me, and iPhone 26 will probably cook fajitas.

6. Tell people when they have something stuck in their teeth.

It’s the right thing to do.

7. Don’t underestimate the power of positive thinking.

Getting up in the morning and deciding it will be a good day seriously works. Letting a bad mood remain is more of a decision than it seems to be.

8. You shouldn’t measure your worth based on how many people you presume “like” you.

Time is wasted in anxious attempts at affirmation. Ironically, I like myself more when I don't think as many people like me.

9. Everyone thinks his or her viewpoint is the right one.

As much as you “know” that your political opinion is “correct,” the person next to you with opposing views believes his or her political opinion is correct as well. Whether you believe it has merit or not, understand and respect that people come to different conclusions and will not always change their mind.

10. Don’t be afraid of new people.

In my opinion, relationships with other people are the most beautiful thing this life has to offer.

11. Don’t be afraid to look like a fool. (Credit: Sarah B)

Fear of embarrassment or putting oneself out there often leads to the worst types of regret.

12. Skip work or class.

I’m always one to take my allotted absences (perhaps to a fault). But if time is used wisely, a mental health day can do wonders for the thought process.

13. If someone close to you tells you that you deserve better, he or she is probably right.

Truly.

14. Setbacks are not complete failures.

Although I have tried to convince myself so, one cannot completely “fail” at life. If you lose in some way, pick yourself up and know you can win the next time.

15. Know when it is best to keep your mouth shut.

In my younger years, I would often say things that could get me into trouble just to prove a point. Consider the pettiness of the argument and whether your stubbornness is worth the supposed "victory."

16. Chocolate and time cure almost anything.

Give it a month and a couple of Butterfingers.

17. Pace yourself.

Through school, in dating, in trying to become healthier- in most things, really. Moving too quickly is often a mistake.

Understand what happened is over and unfortunately cannot be changed, but that you can have control over determining your future.

19. Help out when you can.

Recognize that there is so much more of a world than the little bubble we often find ourselves trapped in. There are many in need who could benefit from our time or extra money.

20. It's okay to not have everything figured out (Maybe even most things).