I know it's cliche, but it feels like just yesterday was January 1, 2018. It does not seem real that this year is about to come to a close.
It's been quite a year, but I'm thankful for all the challenges, good times, growth, hardships, and life lessons this year gave me.
1. Finding balance is extremely important
Yes, it's important to study hard and be involved on campus and have a social life, but there has to be a good balance of it all.
2. It's okay to say no
Sometimes you have to say no to find that balance
3. Sometimes friendships will fade...
People grow, things change.
4. ...but new friendships can be such a blessing
New friends bring a breath of fresh air (and lots of fun).
5. It's the little things that truly matter
Sending an old friend a random text can make their day. Spending time with friends with no technology or homework can be good for the soul. Showing up to your friend's house with Sonic drinks and ice cream makes for a nice surprise. Being there for your friends during rough times can mean the world to them.
6. Holding grudges doesn't hurt anyone but yourself
You can be bitter about something that someone did or said to you all you want, but you are only hurting yourself by doing so. Just let it go and move on: you'll be much happier that way.
7. Nights are much better spent in
As much as I love the occasional formal on a Friday night or girls night out for dinner and ice cream on a Saturday night, I'd much rather spend a night in with friends wearing pajamas and watching Netflix while eating popcorn.
8. Time away from technology is important
With how attached to our phones we are now, the best memories are made when you are with people who make you forget to even check your phone.
9. School and GPA are important but so are sleep and health
Academic goals are great to have, but they can't be achieved if you are not taking care of yourself.
10. It's okay to be hard on yourself...
It's a part of holding yourself accountable for the goals you have set for yourself.
11. ...but not too hard
Hold yourself accountable, but be nice to yourself too.
12. Parents are the best 'best friends'
I mean it...They're irreplaceable.
13. Your happiness is up to no one but you
YOU control your own happiness.
14. Stay true to yourself
There will always be someone that doesn't like you, so just be you and enjoy life.
15. Sometimes life can be hard and frustrating...
Either you are in a trial now, you've just come out of one, or you are about to go in one: life can be tough.
16. ...but there is something to be thankful for no matter the circumstances
But there are ALWAYS things to be thankful for in each and every day: God's provision, family, friends, a roof over your head, God's beautiful creations in nature, the food you eat daily.
17. Your worth is found in Christ.
Your worth is found in Christ and NOT in your accomplishments or mistakes.
18. God's timing and His plan are MUCH GREATER than ours
We may not understand God's plan for our lives, but I know His plan is far greater than mine and he has me where I am in life right now for a reason.
Thank you 2018 for a year full of teaching me life lessons and allowing me to grow and learn more about myself.
