I just recently turned 21. The big two one. Looking back on my 21 years of existence, I have learned quite a lot. A lot about life, people, myself, friendship, and love. Here are five things that I have come to realize.

1. Some people come into your life just as quickly as they will leave and you have to be okay with that.

Some stay for a month, some stay for a year, and a select few stay forever. It may hurt at the time, if someone in your life slowly dissipates, but you have to remember that everything happens for a reason. Life goes on. Every person that I have met has taught me something; something about myself, something about life. Some of its been good and some of its been bad but in the long run it has made me a stronger person.

2. You do not need someone with you to try new things.

In high school I found myself not trying a new club or sport unless one of my friends decided to try it with me or was already a part of it. I realize now as a junior in college that I missed out on so much because I was afraid to be alone while being outside of my comfort zone. I am so glad I got past this fear. I have met so many amazing people and become a member of so many groups in college because I tried new things by myself.

3. Go the extra mile.

This one goes out to my mom. She has taught me from a very young age to always send thank you notes and to be forever grateful for what people do for you. She has also taught me to go above and beyond what is expected. Has your friend been having a rough week? Pick her up, treat her to a Pumpkin Spice Latte; kindness is contagious.

4. Nobody is perfect (I know it is cliche but it is true.)

I have learned that most of the time nothing is going to turn out exactly the way you planned it in your head. People cannot read minds. I have come to be more of a "go with the flow" type of person because to expect things and then be constantly let down is draining and stressful.

5. STOP dwelling on everything. If something is/was out of your control STOP letting it consume your thoughts.

I am a big culprit of over thinking, over analyzing, and being indecisive. I have gotten better, but like with everything, learning to overcome these flaws is still an ongoing process. I know that once I fully master this I will be a lot less stressed.