2016 was an eventful year for sure. Between electing a new president, personal accomplishments and downfalls, as Kylie Jenner said, 2016 really was the year of "realizing things."
Here are 10 things I learned in 2016:
1. Family is everything
Whether it's screaming at your sister for wearing your clothes, or still fighting over who gets the front seat when you're all adults, there is nothing greater than your family.
2. Give more than you receive
Always make it a goal to give your love, your talent, and your advice to others rather than just receiving it.
3. What you want isn't always what you need
Sometimes we are so focused on having things our way, we can't even see that what we want in life does not always align with what we need.
4. Patience pays off
Everything is a process, and things can take time to come alive. Be patient waiting for those moments; it'll mean a lot more seeing the finished product when you understand all the work that was put into it.
5. Alone time can be the best time
In a world full of chaos and stress, there is no better time than time spent alone.
6. "Grow from the dirt that they left you in"
Even when people mistreat you, we should always grow from the pain and become strong people, emotionally and mentally.
7. Take risks
Life is boring when you play by the rules. This year has taught me that some of the most amazing times you'll have in life are when you think outside the box.
8. Always choose happiness
If you always have a positive outlook on things and keep a smile on your face, it will help when going through the hurdles life throws at you.
9. Stay true to you
Never change yourself to fit into someones else's idea of perfection. Always be who you are - it's more than enough!
10. Time flies
We all should take the time to appreciate what we have before it's gone because if 2016 has taught me anything, it is that the days are long, but the years are short.