20 things I've learned in 20 years

Last week I turned 20 years old! It feels so weird to know that I'm no longer a teenager...(even if I am still constantly asked for ID in the pub). I feel like through some of my earlier struggles in life and what I am going through right now, I have learned some very important life lessons which I want to share with you all.

1. It's okay to say no- If you are uncomfortable or you just genuinely don't want to do something, say no. It's okay to tell your friends you don't want to hang out and it's okay to tell your family that you won't be at the gathering. 
2. Accept yourself for who you are- life isn't about looking or being the best at something so accept yourself for the best and the worst bits. The quirks make you who you are so embrace them. 
3. You are always strong enough- no matter how many times you feel like giving up because something feels too hard, you have to stick through it!
4. Not everyone is going to like you and that's okay
5. No one can ask for more than your all- if you're doing any task then give it everything you've got. You will always know that no matter what you're doing your best and no one can fault you for that 
6. Don't go back to your crappy ex just because you feel like you need to be in a relationship. Be by yourself for a little bit. Learn to love yourself. The right person will come with time. 
7. Its okay to cry- sometimes things get too much and you just need to cry it out. Sometimes you're happy and you cry, sometimes you're angry and sometimes you're sad. Let those emotions flow and you'll feel better for it. 
8. Not everyone is in your life to stay- sometimes people are just passing through and no matter how hard you try to hold on to them you cant keep them. Just keep the lessons they have taught you and move on. 
9. Love with all your heart. You never know what tomorrow brings so love freely. 
10. Enjoy life- we aren't young forever and while there are lots of pressure on the younger generations, there are a lot of pluses too so remember to cherish as many as you can get. 
11. Your friends are the family that you choose and its okay if that means only a small circle of people or one person. It's quality over quantity!
12. Take care of your body- there are different forms of exercise that are great for body and soul but don't forget its what you put into your body as well that important! 
13. Don't let go of your inner child!
14. If you managed to believe in Santa and the tooth fairy for years then you can believe in yourself too!
15. Travel as much as you can, experience everything you can.
16. Do what makes you happy
17. Failing or making mistakes is okay...just learn from them. No one is perfect so we all make mistakes, just learn from them and continue.
18. Create a safe space- somewhere that no matter what you're feeling can be a safe haven for you. It's so important to have somewhere to go when you need some time out.
19. Celebrate the little things- there are so many little things that have had such a large impact on my life. It's all about the quality not the quantity so don't overlook some of the best moments of your life!
20. Do everything with kindness- you never know what someone is going through so always be a little kinder than you think is necessary because you never know who it might help.