I've learned a lot of things since starting college 2 years ago (which is good since I'm paying so much for it). Most of the things I've learned in the classroom have been relevant and helpful, at least in my major classes. One of the most valuable things I've learned, however, is something I've learned outside the classroom and hope to carry with me for the rest of my life.

When I first came to college, I was coming from living with my grandparents. They had instilled in me a belief that I always had to look my best and be on my best behavior at all time. They taught me how to say all the right things to impress people, introducing to all of their bigwig friends. I carried these tendencies with me into college, stressing constantly about what the people around me thought of me.

Finally, I wised up and decided enough was enough. I didn't really care what I looked like or the impression I left with them at the end of the interaction. I started wearing what was comfortable, even if it didn't mean that I looked my best. I stopped spending my time with people that I didn't enjoy and surrounded myself with more genuine people. My happiness should've been coming before putting on a show, and as soon as I made that change I was able to start embracing who I was.

My own personality began to shine through and I was able to find friends who loved my personality instead of the stifled version of myself that I came to college with. It was freeing to be able to be myself and I didn't have to worry anymore about always putting my best foot forward. When people love you for you, that means they will love you at your worst and at your best. There is no need to hide behind an act.

I can't begin to explain how much less stressed I was when I started embracing comfortable. Wear your sweatpants with confidence. Feel like throwing on a hoody and rocking a messy bun? Own it. The only person you should be dressing to impress is yourself. The more you go out in public as whatever makes you comfortable, the more people can get to know the real you. Comfortable looks different for everyone. Do you, boo boo.