Life lessons can be found from your job, family, and even strangers. A handful of mine came from the hit TV show "One Tree Hill." The famous "Scott" brothers rivalry taught me how to give chances to those you never thought you would. Brooke and Peyton's friendship taught me that through the hardships that life brings, the right people will stay with you. Watching these characters turn into successful human beings while staying connected has taught me so many lessons that I apply in my everyday life. The quotes in this article are the ones that stuck with me the most. For this, I thank you, Mark Schwahn, for 9 seasons of pure bliss.
1. "It's not about what you say, it's about what you do. You don't like the person you've become then do something about it, because no one's gonna do it for you." — Peyton Sawyer
Everyone gets caught up in life; experiences change people, but you are human. You are your own person, so make sure you are happy with being that person. If not? Change your routine up a bit. This can be waking up an hour earlier to make a full breakfast, or skip watching the newest series on TV after work and go for a walk around the neighborhood. It really is the littlest things that can help shape you as a person.
2. "When your heart breaks, you got to fight like hell to make sure you're still alive. Because you are. And that pain you feel? That's life. The confusion and fear? That's there to remind you, that somewhere out there is something better, and that something is worth fighting for." — Nathan Scott
Everyone experiences a heartbreak or tragedy at some point in their life. If I've learned anything about it, it's that life goes on and it will get better. How you handle these events in your life will define your character and make you stronger for whatever comes next. Life is terrifying, but the beautiful thing about it is how you choose to respond to it. You only get one life, so make it worth living!
3. "Love means giving chances when there are no more chances left to give." — Haley Scott
This can feel extremely painful. If they are worth fighting for, do it. Every relationship/friendship has its rough patches and the outcome will be amazing if it's fixable. But if it's unbearable and it's damaging you as a person, leave. Love isn't always enough sometimes.
4. "Sometimes it seems like you are the only one in the world who's struggling, who's frustrated, unsatisfied, barely getting by. But that feeling's a lie. And if you just hold on, just find the courage to face it all for another day, someone or something will find you and make it all okay." — Lucas Scott
Everyone is at a different point in their life. Don't compare your success to others because you never know the work they put in to get there. Be happy for those ahead of you and use it as a motivator, not a competition. Everyone lives a different life; be happy with where you are and continue to challenge yourself. Your time will come; patience is key.
5. "If you had a friend you knew you'd never see again, what would you say? If you could do one last thing for someone you love, what would it be? Say it, do it, don't wait. Nothing lasts forever." — Brooke Davis
Tomorrow is never promised. Whether this be a small compliment to a stranger at a grocery store or telling someone you love them. You are a bigger part in someone's life than you think you are.
6. "Until you let someone in, you'll always be alone." — Chase AKA Bar Manager
To all of the introverts out there: it's easy to shut people out, but set a goal for yourself each day, like starting a 30-second conversation in the elevator instead of listening to your earbuds. For me, this helps me get over my fear of "small talk." Day by day, you'll see subtle changes in your personality and engagement in your behavior.
7. "I've come to the conclusion that if having things turn out the way you wanted them to is a measure of a successful life, then some would say I'm a failure. The important thing is not to be bitter over life's disappointments. Learn to let go of the past. And recognize that every day won't be sunny, and when you find yourself lost in the darkness and despair; remember it's only in the black of night you see the stars. And those stars will lead you back home. So don't be afraid to make mistakes, to stumble and fall, cause most of the time, the greatest awards come from doing the things that scare you the most. Maybe you'll get everything you wish for. Maybe you'll get more than you ever could have imagined. Who knows where life will take you. The road is long and in the end, the journey is the destination." — Whitey Durham
Take pride in all of your accomplishments, ignore the people who belittle your mistakes, be thankful for your milestones, and find the courage in your fear. This is what makes life so fascinating.
