21 Life Lessons I've Learned in 21 Years | The Odyssey Online
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Adulting

21 Life Lessons I've Learned in 21 Years

Two decades and a year in the books... I've learned some things along the way.

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21 Life Lessons I've Learned in 21 Years

1. You never really know what people are going through.

Not everyone is so surface level. There are things that happen behind closed doors so don't act like you know everything about a person... because chances are, you don't.

2. 'Situationships' really do happen.

I was told what a 'situationship' was my senior year of high school by my English teacher Miss Rizzo (love you girl). She told me they happen a lot in college, where you're talking and going out with a boy, but aren't exclusive with them. Trust me on this one, she was right... they really do happen.

3. Always have a girl gang by your side.

Loyalty is the foundation of all friendships. I met five girls in high school I wouldn't trade for the world. Haley, Patsy, Maddie, Kylie, Gibby - you guys are girl gang, thank you for everything.

4. It really is okay to cut toxic people from your life.

Not everyone you meet really turns out to be everything you thought they were. People do change and sometimes it is for the worst. If they make you unhappy... it is okay to remove them from your life.

5. Sometimes even the people you trusted the most, can be toxic for you.

Like I said, it is okay to cut them. Not every friendship lasts forever.

6. Just do it.

Shoot your shot. Follow that cute boy on instagram. Text them first. Buy the bunny from the pet store. Just go for it, you learn from what you go through.

7. Always trust your family.

Your family knows you like no one else. It sounds cliche but your mom really does know best. Treasure the time you have with your grandparents. It is okay to have your sibling as your best friend... they have known you forever.

8. Life is short... make it sweet.

Thank you Old Dominion for this one. Don't take things for granted, be thankful, do more of what makes you happy.

9. Learn from your mistakes.

Don't stress over the little things, mistakes are suppose to be made in life. You win some you lose some. You will be okay.

10. You win some, you lose some.

Not everything goes your way, no matter how hard you try.

11. Tell the people you love them while you still can.

Whether it's family, a friend, or that boy you just can't seem to get over. If it's how you feel, express it.

12. Never be sorry for the way you feel.

You feel that way for a reason. Don't ever apologize for your feelings, they are valid.

13. You don't have to have your whole life figured out right now.

I have changed my major countless times and I am just starting to figure out exactly what i want. It is okay to make this a trial and error time, you will figure it all out eventually.

14. It's not always about you.

This isn't your world, other people do live on this planet. Take a step back and focus on more than just yourself.

15. It is okay to ask for help.

Not everyone is Mr. / Ms. Do it all, it is okay to ask for help, with anything. Don't ever feel bad for asking, it is okay to not do it all alone.

16. Don't stress over what you can't control.

It is what it is. If you can't change it, why stress over it.

17. It is okay to be selfish and put yourself first.

There is nothing wrong with putting you and your needs first. Creating some time for yourself can really help. You are sometimes more important than whatever is going on in your life right now and it is okay to take time to realize that.

18. Don't make excuses for people.

Don't change yourself for anyone. No one is ever "too busy" for you, if they really care they will make time for you.

19. Make times for the things you love.

Everyone is different and has their own interests. Make time for them and express yourself through them.

20. Be kind.

"When given the choice between being right, or being kind, choose kind" - Dr. Wayne Dyer

21. Don't take 21 shots on your 21st birthday.

Trust me, you're going to want to remember this day and not have to remember it from everyone's snapchat stories.

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