It’s November!
I turned 18 on the first and I am so excited to share this post! 18 Things I’ve Learned at 18 is a very popular tag among youtubers, so I decided to make one too, but as a blog post. I’ve had these “lessons” written down in my journal for a while now, so it feels great to finally share them. Although I am young, I have learned a lot in these past eighteen years!
1. Don’t settle.
You know what you really deserve, so don’t settle for anything less. This goes for relationships, choice of college, friendships, whatever.
2. You can’t please everyone.
Not everyone is going to love you or want to be your friend. Some people will judge you without even knowing you and you’ll just have to accept it. Once you understand this, life will be a lot easier.
3. Hobbies are important.
Find what you love and make the most out of it. Don’t ignore what you’re passionate about.
4. Cherish your independence and be happy on your own.
Love the freedom that comes along with being independent. There’s beauty in the silence.
5. Tea and chocolate are life’s essentials.
6. Know the difference between a real friendship and a toxic one.
If you’re constantly feeling drained or put down by someone, don’t let it continue. Real friends are supportive, encouraging, and celebrate your successes. Toxic friends are envious and purposely hold you back from reaching your full potential. If they only care about themselves or constantly try to discourage you, they’re probably not a real friend. Know the difference and surround yourself with friends who truly genuinely care about you, your goals, and your happiness.
7. Keep yearly journals.
Write everything down. Document your struggles, victories, experiences, all of it. Your memories will be great stories one day.
8. Let yourself feel things.
You shouldn’t dismiss your own feelings. Don’t ignore your stress, sadness, or push away your feelings for someone. It’s okay to feel things deeply. You don’t have to be so harsh and cynical all the time.
9. People outgrow people and it’s okay.
You’re changing and they’re changing. You’re meeting new people, they’re meeting new people, and no one is to blame if you both drift apart.
10.Your physical, mental, and emotional health are all very important.
Drink plenty of water. Don’t skip meals. Actually try to get some sleep. Understand your body and it’s needs.
11. Take a billion photos.
12. Trust yourself.
Overthinking is inevitable, but you need to trust that you know what you’re doing. Trust the idea that everything happens for a reason, and have confidence in whatever you choose to do.
13. Read good books and watch impactful movies.
A good book will impact you and a good movie will change your outlook on things. If you aren’t constantly seeing the world differently, you need to find better books and movies.
14. Don’t be afraid to reinvent yourself or go through change.
Find a new hobby. Dye your hair from dark brown to blonde and then jet black. Change your wardrobe. Leave your tiny city. Seek change and self-discovery if you want to start over.
15. Date someone with good music taste.
Find someone who will love you and your favorite song.
16. Sweet Disposition by the Temper Trap is life-changing.
Play it on repeat. Play it when you’re sad, happy, lonely, confused, heartbroken, however you’re feeling. (Side Note: It’s also featured on 500 Days of Summer which is literally the greatest non-love love story ever, just saying.)
17. You don’t have to be tough 24/7.
It’s okay to take time to acknowledge how crappy your day has been. it’s okay to treat yourself to a bubble bath and shut your phone off, every now and then. You’re human. Not every day will be perfect. You’ve gotta learn to accept the bad days & figure out how to deal with them. (stop bottling crap up!!! it’s unhealthy!!)
18. Love your life.
I know, so Tumblr-basic. But it’s true. Take time to appreciate the amazing things around you. Every day may not be perfect, but that doesn’t mean your life isn’t great. Love your city, love your passions, love your friends, love your family, and don’t forget to love yourself.
Thank you for all of the birthday wishes, I can’t wait for what year 18 has in store for me. 🙂
xoxo,
Eliz