As the first semester of my sophomore year nears an end, I have been reflecting on how content and happy I've felt. Two or three years ago, high school-me was stressed, seemingly always tired, burnt-out from school, and nervous for the future. The past one and half years have been some of the most transformative, fun, and self-discovery filled years yet, and although I'm not really sure what path I'm gonna take, I'm not worried about it (maybe just a little)! The following are the best tips I have for thriving on your own.

1. Like attracts like

You are who you're friends are, so surround yourself with people who bring positive energy to your life. Finding my forever friends at college has made school a home away from home. Stop wasting energy on people that don't have your best intentions in mind, and if you stay genuine to yourself you'll attract like-minded people.

2. Say yes to everything

Okay so maybe not everything, but really make an effort to try new things and be open to opportunities. I feel as though half the battle of doing something new is just showing up. It can be hard to do things alone, but if you want to do something, you are the only one in your way. So go sky-dive, learn yoga, perform slam poetry, whatever it may be, it is waiting for you!

3. Tell him boy byeee

Maybe you're happily coupled up or maybe you're feeling more slashing tires and lousiville sluggers vibes. Either way, just remember that when people show you their true colors, believe them! You don't need anyone to complete you, so don't be afraid to drop him. Can you tell my mood rn?

4. Take a chance

Take a chance on meeee, Abba anyone?

Find your wide open spaces and take a chance on whatever is out there. Whatever your comfort zone is, SHATTER it! Go out on a Tuesday night, go vegan, go talk to that boy that you see everywhere, or ask a question in your 400 person lecture. College has made me leave my comfort zone like never before, and I'm 100 times better for it.

5. Make your health a priority

Prioritizing my sleep, mental and physical health has made such difference....duh. But seriously, staying on top of school, work, family, sleep, and a social life can be a lot to balance. College leaves me with a lot of free time, but it is easy to let it slip away. Time management is key, but sometimes you need to prioritize working out over socializing or vice versa. Take care of yourself, and don't be afraid to ask for help.

6. Doors close

Annnnd new ones open. Maybe you didn't make the team, club, get the job, whatever it is, don't let it keep you down. I firmly believe that everything happens for a reason (even if it sucks atm). This semester, for whatever reason, has seemed to be full of rejections for myself and others, however it all leads to different people, places and opportunities.

7. Be in the moment

If you're always happy in the now, you'll never be sad. So being happy all the time is obviously not realistic to maintain, but if you really try to focus yourself on being present, it helps the ease the fears and anxieties of the future.

8. Stop comparing

You're not your siblings, friends, classmates, you are you. Everyone is keeping up appearances, people with 4.0 gpas may actually be depressed and people with thousands of Instagram followers may be really lonely. The grass always looks greener on the other side, and in reality everyone has their own struggles.

9. It's not that deep

It's really not that deep sis! Laugh off the mistakes, awkward and embarrassing situations, and just have fun with it!