We all know how tough life can be at times. Sometimes you are successful, healthy, stable and other times you trip and fall and things change. “Life happens” and at times a sudden change may leave you with internal and/or external scars. As many quotes as there are, it is not easy to “get back up” or ignore reality. But sometimes life teases you and does things that make “your life flash before your eyes.” This then makes you think about what is most important to you.

First thing to come to mind was your family or your pet. You don’t think about that argument you had with your professor, or with a rude civilian, or customer at your work. Although those arguments may have bothered you in the moment and have stuck with you, at the end of the day none of it matters.

So ignore all of that negativity and enjoy life by doing what I do!

1. Be open minded.

It is always, always, always best to keep an open mind whether in school, work or when you are out with friends. Change might be scary but it is an introduction to something new and wonderful.

2. Try new things

I love trying new things! While in college, I tried SO many different classes and clubs and I made a new friends and learned some new skills along the way.

3. Follow your gut

Most of the times we ignore our gut because our heart or our head is telling us to. As weird as it may be, your gut is always right. At least mine is. The times that I have ignored my gut, I reproached myself.

4. Learn from your mistakes

The truth may hurt sometimes and as mad or sad as you get, you cannot avoid it. But you can learn from it. You may have a regret here and there but honestly do not waste your time thinking what you would of done differently because what is done is done. You’ll know what to do next time.

5. Ignore the negativity- be optimistic

Sometimes it is hard to ignore negative people who surround you, or just negative individuals you encounter either at the supermarket or a coffee shop. But IGNORE them. Sometimes they are jerks who have personal issues and they take it out on other people. Don’t take it personal.

6. Keep it real

Life is so much easier when you are honest with yourself and everyone else. As I mentioned earlier, the truth may hurt at times, but it is better to be real than fake. Friends, if my outfit is ugly, TELL ME. If I look like a fool, TELL ME. I am 150% honest with my family and close friends and I would not have it any other way.

7. Listen to those you love and who love you in return

Sometimes you can be stubborn, I know I can, but you are not always right. It is hard to accept that you are wrong and it may take a while to accept that, but you have to. Family and close friends want what is best for you, so listen! If you don’t think your friends want what is best for you then you need new friends.

8. Have confidence

I cannot stress this enough. Confidence will take you SO far. When you are confident, you ignore all the negativity and you enjoy your life!