Being 20 means still being young and yet, having major life stages ahead of you. Throughout my 20 years, I have learned a couple of things through my experiences, that many of you may relate to.

1. Alone time is the best time.

I love hanging out with my friends and family, but I’ve also learned to have fun and enjoy my alone time.

2. Going out is overrated

Parties and going out are fun, but some of the best nights I can remember were the ones where I stayed in, either by myself or with someone else. It’s all about having the right company.

3. Family always comes first.

Although family relationships get rough sometimes, it is a bond that can never be broken. My family is my support system and my favorite people to be around. I’ve learned that some people come and go but I can always rely on family, no matter what.

4. School isn’t that bad.

Looking past the stress and the not so good times, I actually realize I enjoy school. Not only because of the social aspect, because I have met my best friends through school, but learning is actually fun. Learning helps you to become a well rounded individual.

5. Sometimes it’s OK to be selfish.

Keeping yourself as a priority is OK, especially at this stage when you don’t have kids yet and are trying to build your life. Put yourself, well being, and happiness first. When doing this, take care of yourself before trying to take care of others.

6. A positive mindset leads to a positive life.

It can be easy to complain and look at the negative side all the time, but trying to keep a positive mindset and having overall a positive vibe affects your mood and your mindset, happiness starts from within, you can control everything that happens but you control the way you react and handle it.

7. Never underestimate your parents advice.

I can’t remember the number of times my mom told me I shouldn’t be friends with someone or how I shouldn’t be doing something. She was right, but I always learned the hard way. Your parents know what’s best for you and have more life experience, it doesn’t hurt to listen one in a while.

8. Travel as much as you can.

There is nothing like traveling to put your life in perspective and open your mind, there are so many cultures and many people to learn from. The world is too big to stay in one place forever.

9. Invest in experiences, not things.

I can’t stress this enough; the best moments in life and the memories you cherish the most come from those experiences. When you’re old and you’re looking back at your life, the things you bought won’t matter, but the moments and experiences you went through will.

10. Concerts are worth every penny.

I might be bias with this one just because music is such a big part of my life, but concerts make me happy. Enjoying and admiring someone’s work is an experience; my happiest memories are from attending concerts and sharing that experience with someone I love.

11. People aren’t that bad.

There are so many bright, experienced, and happy people to learn from, especially people that have a completely different background as you. Every person that has ever come into my life has taught me something. Whether it was good or bad, it has helped me become who I am today; I like to appreciate people for who they are and try to appreciate what they bring into my life.

12. … Except for some people.

Sometimes people suck and there is nothing you can do about it, and that’s OK. It’s better to learn from bad experiences than to hold a grudge and invite negative energy into your life.

13. Be there for the people you love.

That’s what every friendship, relationship or family bond comes down to: being there and offering support for people we love when they need. Let’s face it, they would do the same thing for us. Not everyone can fight their battles alone, sometimes we need a little help.

14.  Long distance relationships are possible.

With the help of technology we have today, you just need two people that are willing to make it work. Don’t miss out on the love of your life because the situation is not ideal.

15.  A healthy relationship can brighten your life.

Although there are up and downs, that’s what it should come to.

16. ..But relationships shouldn’t be the most important part of your life.

Friendships, family and your relationship with yourself especially, are also priorities. Don’t rely on one person to be happy.

17. Being kind to others makes you happy.

Being kind doesn’t cost anything and not only can it brighten someone’s day, but your own too. There is enough hostility in the world, there is no need to add to it.

18. Plan and work for a future without forgetting about the present.

The future is important, but it is also important to focus on what’s going on now. Life is happening now, don’t wait for a stage or a moment in your life to make you happy.

19. Outgrowing friends and people is OK.

Some people are just not meant to stay in your life and that’s OK. It just means they were just what you needed at one point and now, there is no need to add a negative connotation to it.

20. Life is a journey, not a competition.

Someone else’s success and happiness shouldn’t take from your own. We’re all on our own journey and there is nothing wrong with celebrating with others while still working on yourself.

Be inspired by the world while it’s your turn to inspire others, there is no ending line, or a single moment that defines success. Life is a journey so enjoy every little step!