This past year has been a bit of a roller coaster, to say the least. I'm enjoying how to navigate being fully independent. I’m figuring out what makes me happy, but also realizing the stark reality of the world we live in. I'm loving how I can truly dictate how my life will unfold. It’s scary, but exciting. I’m fortunate to have so many good people in my life, who support me, are empathetic, and unknowingly act as role models for me. Here are a few of the things I’ve learned this past year:
1. Love the people important to you (and let them know it)
As I’m getting older (and busier), I realize that time is precious and it isn’t always guaranteed. Time goes by fast! Talk to your parents every day. Reconnect with friends you haven’t seen. If someone is important to you, make the conscious effort to keep them in your life. At the end of the day, people are the most important thing.
2. Take care of yourself
No one is going to put you first, but yourself. Exercise and take care of your body. Learn and keep your brain young. Find things that make you happy, and go do them. If you want something, work to get it. Also, get sleep!
3. It’s okay to fail
I keep learning this over and over. It’s okay to fail, it’s okay to feel like a failure. We’re all human and we all make mistakes. Instead of letting this discourage and debilitate you, use this opportunity to learn as much as you can and make yourself stronger. Failure is an ugly word. Redefine it as “an opportunity for growth” ;)
4. Surround yourself with the right people
Super important. In good times, these people can help you soar. They will be sources of laughter, comfort and joy. In hard times, they will your network of support and encouragement and help you reach the light at the end of the tunnel. Cut the ones who aren’t good for you, choose your people well.
5. Do things that you’re afraid of
This past year, I’ve done things that I never thought I could do. Things that made me uncomfortable. Thing I knew nothing about. Some things, honestly, that I never want to do again. But I realize that, by having done these things, I’ve grown. So, it’s good to go outside of your comfort zone. It makes you better. Face your fears!
6. Create a healthy routine
I didn’t realize how important this was until I was in a unfortunate situation and luckily I had already developed healthy habits to fall back on. When we aren’t at our best, it’s easy to ideate on negative thoughts and pick up bad habits (watching TV all day, going out etc…). However, if you develop a healthy routine (for example, reading for an hour each day), when hardships occur, these habits act as additional barriers and you have a higher chance of reverting back to healthy habits, instead of picking up negative ones.
7. Always be yourself
Always stay true to yourself. Know who you are, know what you stand for and simply don’t let other people tell you what you can and cannot do, achieve, think or want. Don't let anyone dictate what you're worth. Don't let anyone tell you there's a limit to your potential. Don't let anyone crush your dreams. You know yourself the best. Trust your gut and go with your instinct. You do you.
8. Learn the things you need to know
Learn the things you need to know. Of course learn the things you want to know, too. But learn the things you need to know, but you might not want to do. One thing in particular comes to mind for me: finance. This is a necessity. Stocks, portfolios, investments, loans, mortgages. Learn how to manage your wealth. Learn the things you need to know and you'll be successful.
9. Always be networking
Always, always, be networking. You never know what the future entails and it never knows to hurt people. Always network.
10. You can get through anything
I've always thought I'd seen it all. Not a lot of things surprise me. I'm a pretty tough cookie. I've seen the best, I've seen the worst. Yet, life has a funny way of showing me, I haven't quite seen everything yet. But I know that with my support network, my family and friends, the lessons I've learned, grit, and an open mind, I can get through anything. And so can you. So, bring it on!
These are a few things I’ve learned from my experiences during the past year. Obviously, this isn’t a comprehensive list and it’s always evolving. That’s the fun thing about life. “Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re going to get”.
