After turning 18, you're 'officially' a legal adult but aside from registering to vote, nothing about my life really changed. The ages of 19 and 20 are neither here nor there because you're an "adult" now but honestly you still feel like a kid and are probably still an underclassman in college. But 21 is seen as the quintessential age. Not only do you have your first year of trial and error as a 20-something down, but in the U.S. you're now legally able to drink too. Because the drinking age in our country is so high, we make a pretty big deal out of becoming "legal," but besides that, this is still a pretty big time in a young adult's life. You're still young and will continue to be seen as such by the world, but you've lived a little too and have had enough time and experiences to reflect on them and learn a few things. Here are 21 of the life lessons I have learned in the last 21 years:

1. Not everyone is going to like you and that’s perfectly okay – you won’t like them all either. Be proud of who you are.

2. It’s okay to say no – to going out, to that extra club or commitment, to the guy that keeps texting you, to peer pressure, to anything you don’t want or need.

3. Your family will always have your back – whether you want them or not, they’re there.

4. Always do the right thing – it won’t always be fun, it won’t always be easy, but you’ve gotta do it.

5. You don’t know everything – and you never will, so stop pretending that you do.

6. Always keep an open mind – always, always want to try new things: food, cultures, anything.

7. Be comfortable being uncomfortable – change never comes when you’re standing in one place.

8. People are going to disagree with you – and you need to stand your ground, but also take the chance to hear them out – you might learn something new.

9. Make time for the people who matter to you – be a good listener and a shoulder to cry on.

10. It’s better to ask for forgiveness than to ask for permission *Usually. Exceptions apply*.

11. Accept what you can’t change, and change what you can’t accept – never settle.

12. Sometimes lazy days are the best days – take the time to just relax by yourself sometimes – spending time alone doesn’t mean you’re lonely.

13. Don’t get caught up in drama – sure it can be entertaining but if it’s not your concern, stay out of it.

14. It’s really hard to help someone who doesn’t want to help themselves – so don’t beat yourself up if you can’t either.

15. Laughter truly is the best medicine – find people who make you laugh until you cry and your sides hurt.

16. “Normal” does not exist – you’re not “weird” and you shouldn’t judge other people for being weird either because everyone has different perceptions.

17. You are enough – other people’s perceptions and your relationship status do not define your worth.

18. People change – and it’s okay if you do too.

19. Be all-in or not at all – Give everything 100% and do your absolute best because it’s never worth it to half-ass something that matters.

20. Don’t be a doormat – stand up for yourself, hold your ground, and don’t let anyone walk all over you.

21. Don’t worry, be happy – HAVE SOME FUN!