18 Things I've Learnt in 18 years

09/05/2020

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1. The world does not owe you anything. Not your happiness, your life or your relationships. If you desire something, you make it happen yourself.

2. Seeking help does not make you weak. During hard times, you have friends and family who cares about you like you care about them. Seeking help means you recognize that you can't go through something alone, and you don't have to.

3. Do not judge a book by its cover. It applies to people and relationships. Everyone is fighting a battle you know nothing about. You don't have to "help" them or agree with them, you just have to understand them.

4. Do not assume the worse intentions. No one in this world is "out to make you miserable". No one. Everyone is trying to make life work just like you, but with a different path.

5. Adults are human too. This one goes to the younger people. Parents, teachers and professionals are humans too. They cry, make mistakes, get lost and get hurt. It's really a weird feeling to realize that because it is often forgotten and their strength are taken for granted.

6. Respect and always be kind to everyone you meet. Like the one above, everyone is a human with emotions, feelings and their own story. Be nice.

7. Step away from fights. In disagreements, it can easily escalate with shouting to an argument. Simply step away from the it to rethink and collect your temper. It can be a few minutes, a day or a week.

8. It's ok to lose some people along the way. If you do not get along with someone, just move on. Quoting the movie 17 Again, "When you're young, everything feels like the end of the world... But it's not. It's just the beginning."

9. Everyone is equal. No one is a "worthier" or "better" of a human than you. Never let others put you down. Similarly, you are not "worthier" or "better" of a human than others. Never put other people down.

10. Appreciate those around you. Say thank you, hug them, cook for them and show them your love and care. Let them know that you appreciate their presence.

11. Own up to your mistakes. This one is harder than it sounds. Learn to put away your ego or pride and apologies to others, it hurts no one to do so.

12. Step out of you comfort zone. Try new things. It can be a hobby, a healthier lifestyle, applying for a new job or position, a sport or meeting new people. Just experiment. Most of the times, the worst that can happen is minuscule compared to the experience you gain from it.

13. Do it now. If you want to try something new or start a new hobby, start today, don't wait on it. It can be one day or day one. Your choice.

14. There will always be set backs. It's a well known fact that life is not a smooth ride but a long, dangerous and twisted path. You will fail and lose and cry. It's ok. But that's what make the ending all the more glorious.

15. Reflect and learn. When it comes to improving yourself, reflect on the past of yourself and others, recognize the mistakes or successes, and remember it for the future.

16. Have fun. Don't restrict or comply yourself to an ideology. It is after all, your life, you body and your choice. If you want to back pack around the world, sky dive or go drinking on a Tuesday night, do it! Work hard to play hard.

17. You are responsible for yourself. Equally, you will be responsible for all the consequences for your choices and actions, whether good or bad. Be mature and prepared. It's never a negative to be too prepared.

18. Lastly, always try to be a better version of yourself. There is always room for improvement and to better yourself. No need to compete with others, just focus on taking care of yourself and what you embody. It is also the best care and love you can give yourself.