21 Wise Words | The Odyssey Online
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21 Wise Words
Madeline Allen

So many people look forward to their 21st birthday. Now that the day has come for me, I thought I'd put together a list of 21 things I've found important in life so far:

1. Be kind because it could make someone's day.

It costs nothing to give someone a compliment or do a random act of kindness. Be kind and it will take you far.

2. It will work out when the time is right.

When one thing doesn't work out, there is another opportunity waiting for you. A personal example of mine is when I didn't get a certain summer internship last year. Of course I was disappointed, but I then applied to another internship, which is the one I ended up working for through the summer. That led to a job throughout this school year. It really does work out.

3. Work hard and set goals.

When having a goal in mind, you feel so much more motivated and excited about the future. This will get you through your daily routines that may leave you stressed.

4. But don't forget to treat yourself every once in awhile.

While it's great to work and go for your dreams, don't burn yourself out. Take time to go buy something for yourself because you probably deserve it.

5. Try something new.

This can be trying a new restaurant, taking a new job, or meeting someone new. Whatever it is, you'll learn something about yourself.

6. Travel!

Going off of trying something new, go someplace new. Seeing a different culture will open your eyes and make you realize how much the world has to offer.

7. Overcoming a fear is one of the best feelings.

It's just like setting goals, you feel accomplished afterwards.

8. Don't always worry about what others think of you.

Life is so much more than worrying about this. Do what makes you happy.

9. Live in the moment.

Put down the technology for a while and take in what you're experiencing. It makes a difference.

10. Buying a pet is one of the best decisions.

You will always have company, why not?

11. Make a name for yourself.

Show what you're capable of and this will take you far.

12. Have a few amazing friends rather than a big group of acquaintances.

This will make you feel so much closer with those few friends.

13. Don't forget to visit your family every once in awhile.

Take time to go home for a weekend or have dinner with your family, it means a lot to them.

14. Reach out to old friends.

Some days it's nice to sit back and talk with old friends about old memories. It will make you realize how far you've come.

15. Ask questions.

This is important anywhere whether you're at work, in school, in conversation. If you're stuck, just ask.

16. Realize you're probably not as alone as you feel like.

There are so many times where you probably feel alone, but realize you're not. There are probably many people who are there to support you.

17. Being confident is a crucial skill.

Show that you're not afraid to be who you are.

18. Ask for feedback.

If you want to improve in your work and as a person, don't be afraid to ask for feedback.

19. Realize you can't be perfect.

When asking for feedback, know that you won't always get perfect feedback. You can't be perfect and that's okay.

20. Studying is important.

Some days you may have to say no to doing something fun because you have to study and that's okay, too.

21. But so is going out and having fun. Find the balance.

But you have to find the balance because some days, you just need time to have fun. Enjoy yourself.

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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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