25 lessons I have learned in 25 years

"When you're young everything feels like the end of the world, but it's not. It is just the beginning." - Seventeen Again.

Throughout much of my young adult life, I fixated on what turning 25 would be like: the beginning to the end of my youth. This would be the time where I would grow up and have my life together. I’d find a stable job, perhaps buy a house, establish a solid relationship and do all the other things that encompass success. However, it’s been a few weeks since I turned 25 and I feel I am no where near accomplishing any of these things. As I reflect on these past 25 years of life, i'd like to share 25 lessons I have learned in 25 years.

Growing older is mandatory, but growing up is optional.

This does not mean you can act immature, but rather hold on to your childlike energy. Everything is much more enjoyable when you are young at heart.

Fail early, fail often.

This is something my business teacher in college stressed almost everyday. Failure allows us to evolve into better human beings. The more you fail, the more you will learn, so let go of the that fear and embrace growth.

Always do the things that scare you.

I adapted this motto when I lived abroad. It's easy to live in the comfort zone. Yet, it is when we try new experiences that we find ourselves enamored with life.

Your body is a treasure, take good care of it.

I learned this lesson much too late. I wish I had taken better care of my body as a child and teenager. As you get older, it's easier to have your body fall apart and it does not bounce back as easily. However, there is still time for your body to heal by focusing on having good health.

Do not be afraid to ask questions.

Curiosity will always lead us to new paths and allows us to find new solutions, therefore do not shy away from asking questions.

Be both book smart and street smart.

It is important to have the ability to carry an intellectual conversation, but also much more important to know how to survive in various environments.

Learn something new everyday.

I have recently noticed if my mind isn’t actively engaged, my brain experiences brain fog. It's so important to continuously exercise your brain by taking in knowledge on a daily basis. There's a reason older people play sudoku or crossword puzzles . . . they work.

Materialistic items have no value.

Sure it's nice to have medals, trophies, a nice car, money, and really all the things that gives us status. However, these items have no value, we give them value. So don't lose yourself in possessing such items as they do not define you, nor will they make you happy in the long run.

Your friends are a reflection of who yourself.

Growing up, my mother would constantly refer to this phrase. I didn't quite understand until I was much older. This doesn't literally mean you are a replica of your friends, but rather a reflection some of their characteristics. Focus on having a diverse set of friends, who posses good values.

You get what you give.

Negative vibes only bring about negative results, so focus on positivity.

Find a hobby.

School, work, and pretty much everyday life can be very draining. I find hobbies are the best way to retain a healthy state of mind. It's fun to have something to do for your own pleasure.

Where you invest your love, you invest your life.

Investing your time into good healthy relationships will generate positive results in your life. If someone is toxic, let them go.

Laugh, a lot.

A good sense of humor is key to living a happy life. This not only releases stress and tension, but will also work out your diaphragm so say hello abs. I may be exaggerating about the abs...but hey you never know.

Spend time outdoors.

My mind is most at peace when I am with nature. Whether you are hiking, swimming or taking a stroll in the park, find time to enjoy the outdoors and soak in some vitamin D.

Everything happens for a reason.

People are meant to be in your life for a season, reason, or lifetime. Everything always works out for the best. Don't overthink things and let it be.

Be a voice for yourself and others.

Many people are uncomfortable with speaking up and challenging the status quo, but remember people aren't as privileged as you may be. Do not be afraid to be the first to create a ripple for change.

Forgive, but never forget.

Let go of grudges or any negativity and forgive people. Life is too short to let hate consume us. Do note, this doesn't mean we should be naive and forget the offenses committed by others. Learn from situations and move on.

You will always be a work in progress, so cut yourself some slack.

We are often our own worst critic. Acknowledge there will always be something to improve on, but give yourself credit where credit is due. You are amazing!

The only life worth living is one you are passionate about.

Stop wasting time living up to the expectation of what you should be, but rather live the life you want. This is easier said than done and something I am still working on, but I know this is very true.

Learn a new language.

Not only be cultured, but this will come in handy at future jobs or sometimes in your travels.

Trust in your faith.

Whether you believe in God or some sort of philosophy, trust and ground yourself in your beliefs. Allow this faith to guide you through everything you do in life.

Agree to disagree with others.

It is important to keep an open mind, however recognize you can agree do disagree with a person. In order for us to coexist we must let go of trying to prove a point, but compromise and find middle ground.

Nothing is impossible, even the word itself says i'm possible.

This one is pretty self explanatory. I truly believe everything is possible. When I find myself in times of doubt, I focus on this quote and I feel so empowered. I hope you will too.

Travel leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.

To know there is a whole world out there just waiting for you to go and explore is quite exciting. Travel exposes us to circumstances that allow us to comprehend life on a very different level. Learn from other cultures and allow yourself to soak in life from every part of the world. There is nothing that is more satisfying.

Cherish time with your family and friends.

As we get older, we come to acknowledge life is fleeting. Our loved ones will one day pass, therefore prioritize hanging out with family and friends.

There are things these past 25 years have taught me, but the above are some of my favorite lessons. If there are some things you have learned that you'd like to share, then please comment below. I look forward to hearing about what life has taught you. Until then, I am embracing myself for the next chapter of my life, not an end, but a new beginning.