It's my birthday so I can reflect on the last year of my life basically want to.
Resolutions are hard to keep, so instead, I love to look back on the year I've had on every single birthday. These are all the lessons I've learned, both negative and positive. I think it's important to remember what you have and what you've learned because it helps you grow. If you don't grow you won't ever achieve your goals and dreams. So here are some of the lessons I learned in my 22nd year.
- Don't let your demons become monsters by letting them motivate your decisions and feelings.
- Individuals are going to lie to you because they don't want to hurt your feelings. Understand that they do not respect you enough to tell you the truth.
- Let yourself be consumed from your passions. They will be there for you when you're so overcome with emotion you can barely breathe.
- Trust your instincts and just what they are telling you. They are more often than not right.
- Cut the toxic people out. They spread like cancer and have no cure. It will hurt initially saying goodbye to friendships that have so many memories attached. However in the long run, you will be happier.
- Your rejections and mistakes don't define you.
- Every experience you've is irreplaceable and so are the people you have them with. Don't try to replicate them, remember them.
- Stop trying to be somebody you're not simply because you're uncomfortable. Who cares when they don't like you because you didn't laugh at the right part of the joke. Laugh anyway.
- Know when you really need to walk away and when you should fight for what you want. Several things are better left unsaid, while some should be screamed at the top of your lungs.
- You're all the good things that people say you're. Believe in those good things.
- Half-hearted apologies are worse than no apology. Mean what you say and always apologize when you're in the wrong. It will hurt your pride, however it will heal your wounds.
- Simply because you don't talk about it doesn't mean you don't think about it. You grieve differently than the others. There is no wrong way to be sad.
- He is going to love you even on your worst days. Don't forget to tell him how much you appreciate him.
- Nurture your family because you never know when God will require them. Say “I love you” every chance you receive and never leave without a hug.
- Love yourself above anything else. Stop comparing yourself to everyone around you. You are the only you that there is ever going to be. Embrace your stretch marks, they are years lived not flaws.
- Always handwrite your ex into every card. Your grandparents appreciate it more than you think.
- Call your grandparents and talk to them about your life.
- Reside in the moment. Don't let anything or anyone ruin your day, especially a day that is vital that you you.
- Always read through your projects before you click send. Spellcheck is not a reliable editor.
- Public Relations was the right choice. Don't second-guess yourself. You're on the right path. Keep working towards your dreams.
- The hard times will make you realize simply how much love you have in your life. Your friends and your boyfriend will be there for you even when you're on the ground sobbing hysterically. Appreciate them, love them, and hug them.
- Your grandma loved you very much and is still looking out for you against above. You will miss her every single day and you will cry every time something reminds you of her. You're going to get through the hard days where all that's necessary to do is call her. She is in a better place. You will notice her again. Be strong try not to ever be afraid to take time to yourself when you're having a hard day without her. Self-care is essential too and nobody will ever understand your grief or sadness. That's okay. She is okay now.
It's vital that you reflect. Reflecting helps heal your soul both mentally and physically. Twenty-two was a roller coaster of a year for me personally, but I wouldn't have changed anything about it. I experienced my highest highs and lowest lows, at times seemed never-ending, while others seemed to go by almost too fast. If you're ever feeling a bit lost on your path I recommend sitting down and writing a list of everything you've learned and everything you've conquered in the last year. It will help you become the very best version of yourself. Let your lessons become the perfect blessings!
