As I turn 17 this year, I’d like to look back at 8 of the most important lessons I’ve learned in life so far:
One, people come & go and I should never let anyone take me for granted.
I’ve learned that it’s really hard to please people but I’ve also realized that why should I even bother? For as long as I’m doing what’s right and I’m happy with myself then that’s enough. There would always be people who’d fail to realize how amazing you are but that’s not your problem anymore. It’s their loss, not yours. Learn to let go of toxic friendships and cut off all the negative people from your life.
Second, learn to love yourself because your happiness and self-worth should never depend on what others have to say.
Always remember that before you love someone, you must learn to love yourself first. You are capable of a LOT of things and those who think otherwise are wrong. Never ever think that you aren’t enough or you aren’t worth it because YOU ARE.
Third, everything happens for a reason.
God knows what He’s doing and His plan is far greater than ours. We must learn to let go and let God take the wheel. Leave all your worries to Him and just trust His process. The minor setbacks that we come across to are here to help us grow. We must not look at our ‘failures’ negatively, instead we must use them as our motivation to become better.
Fourth, you should never forget to pray because it really helps.
God is always there for us, waiting for us to call upon Him and He is always watching our every move. He would never leave our side even through all the tough times and we must remember that He would never give us problems that we couldn’t resolve, which is why whatever trials and challenges life would throw at us, we must not fret for He is with us and He’d guide us until the end.
Fifth, always look at the bright side of life.
No matter what our situation is, there is always something to be thankful for. Even just the mere fact that you are alive and you are safe is already a blessing. Cherish the little things and appreciate what you have because not everyone is as lucky as you are. We must also never forget to pray for those people who are going through rough times. Choose to be positive, trust me it has become one of the greatest decisions I’ve made.
Sixth, value and appreciate the people who are always there for you.
These friends who would never leave your side and would help you to grow are the best kind. Never make them feel like you don’t care for them or appreciate them because everyone has a limit in life. There would come a time when they’d get tired of standing by you when you’re taking them for granted and when that time comes, it may be too late for you to get them back. Make them feel your love and appreciation not only through words but through actions.
Seventh, learn to put down your gadgets and enjoy life as it is.
I might not do this most of the time and it’s hard for our generation to do it because of the kind of world we live in right now, but we must always find the time to do so even for just an hour or when we’re with other people. As modes of communication continue to improve, real life communication itself gets lost.
Lastly, GRADES WOULD NEVER DEFINE YOU!
Just do your best in everything, give your 110% effort, keep your faith strong and leave the rest to God. I’ve broken down so many times already just because of the academic pressure I’ve put on myself. After talking to my parents & friends about it, I’ve come to realize that why must I pressure myself so much and let it get to me? I should just enjoy what I’m doing and always, always do the best that I can. In 10 years, I’d probably be happier if I’d look back to senior year and think that I didn’t let the pressure get to me, instead I just enjoyed it but at the same time I did the best that I could.
“Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.”
Every day is a learning experience and I hope to bring all of these positive learnings with me as I continue on in my life’s journey!
