As I’ve gotten older, I have taken away countless lessons that have helped me become the person I am today. In my 19 years, I’ve loved, and I’ve lost. I’ve felt nothing but sheer happiness at times, but there have been moments where I have never felt so numb. I’ve tasted success, but I have also faced failure. Life is a crazy ride, and you never know what tomorrow is going to bring. Here are 19 lessons I have learned over the past 19 years.

1. People come and go.

2. Sometimes things don't go the way you expected them to.

3. It’s OK to cry.

Cry in the shower, cry in the car or cry on the kitchen floor. Let out how you feel, and as soon as you do, pick yourself up and move on.

4. Never allow your thoughts to be left unheard.

5. Work hard.

If you want something, go and get it. Nothing in this life is handed to you.

6. Surround yourself with good people.

Keep your inner circle full of people who want nothing but the best for you.

7. Money does not buy happiness.

Clothes, shoes and jewelry are nice and all, but the joy they bring lasts a hot minute. Seeing the beauty in the world and forming relationships with people are what make life worth living.

8. Do more.

Stop waiting for later and take advantage of every single opportunity that comes your way.

9. Change is good.

Don't be so scared of it! Trying something new can be exciting, and sometimes it's exactly what you need.

10. If he only calls you after midnight, he doesn't love you.

11. You are worth so much more than you give yourself credit for.

The day you realize this, nothing will be the same.

12. Don't push everyone away.

I always look for reasons to run away and to push away those who care most about me. It's hard to let people in, but please try your best. You don't want to miss out on something great just because you're scared.

13. People don't notice as much as you think they do.

14. Forgiveness is not easy.

Forgiving someone who wronged you can be one of the most difficult things to do. It definitely takes time, but once you come to accept what happened and let it go, the better you will feel. Life is too short to stay angry or upset.

15. Never pretend to be someone you're not.

16. Be spontaneous.

Ice cream at midnight with your friends? Do it. Want to stay in the city for the weekend? Yes, go now! Make all the memories you possibly can.

17. Splurge on coffee.

Some days, it's completely necessary to spend $6.50 on a venti iced soy mocha with an extra shot of espresso.

18. Love your parents.

They love you unconditionally and will give the world just to see you happy. Make sure they know how much you appreciate everything they do for you and love them back.

19. Nobody has it all figured out.

I know some days you feel so out of control and you wish you understood everything that is happening in your life, but you can't, and it's OK. You aren't alone. Just take a deep breathe and keep pushing forward. One day it will all make sense.