In today’s day and age, it’s very hard to not live a life that is centered around your next paycheck or your next monthly allowance, if you get one. However, I’ve quickly realized though that the most important things in life are all things that are actually quite priceless: memories, happiness, and love.

As we become older and experience more, the memories of those experiences become so much more valuable than any other object that money may be able to buy. And looking back at it, I’m so upset I didn’t realize this at a much much younger age.

Growing up, I was incredibly blessed with trips and adventures. We were constantly thinking of where to go to next or what we wanted to explore over the next break of school. I’ve made some amazing memories in the years past and it’s become incredibly important to me that I continue to travel and make more memories.

Happiness is also something that I personally think many people take for granted at the time. It seems like such a simple concept to be happy and to feel happy. But I’ve come to realize that being happy is definitely something that needs to be cherished. Just as people say that your days are not promised, either is your happiness.

When things are good, cherish them. Whether it be in a friendship or relationship or in all aspects of your life. Hold onto it. Make it a memory.

In those friendships and relationships or where you find your happiness, also find love. It’s rare these days to find good friends. It’s rare these days to find a good relationship. Again, both things I feel are taken for granted far too often.

We forget way too often that the things which occur in our day-to-day life are not infinite. We forget that nothing lasts forever. We forget how precious life is. I admit I’m guilty of it just as much as anyone. But I think that’s why it’s so important to live with no regrets. So, take chances. Mess up. Send that risky text. Tell that person what’s on your mind.

When you admit to yourself that your next day, or even your next hour of life, is not guaranteed, it truly puts life into perspective.

Pay more attention to your experiences. Turn them into memories and never forget them. Let them become something that cannot be taken away from you.

Be happy. Find happiness in yourself, in others, and in what you do every day. Life is short. Why not be happy?

Most importantly, find love. Surround yourself with friends and family who love you and encourage you to be a better you. It’s empowering.

Cherish those things that money cannot buy you.

They are not promised.

They are not perfect.

But they make life worth living.