26 Things I've Learned in 26 Years of Life

Hey! Since I just celebrated my 26th birthday... I thought I'd do something a little bit different around here. The list below are random thoughts that have come to mind over the past couple of years. They help fuel my positivity and inspiration, and I hope they can do the same for you!

26 Things I've Learned in 26 Years of Life:

1. I never want to stop learning.
2. You bring in what you put out (yeah, I'm talking about negativity).
3. Friends will come and go. The ones who are meant to be in your life will be there.
4. Comparison can be deteriorating, but with a change in mindset you can turn it into inspiration.
5. Vulnerability is terrifying, but also so important.
6. When you're mad or upset, try to take a step back and understand the reason why. Often, there is so much more contributing to your emotions than what you can see on the surface.
7. It's okay to splurge every once in awhile. Eat the cupcake. Buy the shoes. Take the day off.
8. A good exercise routine really does make a difference (mentally and physically). It doesn't need to be strict. Go for a walk, do some yoga, whatever! Just get moving.
9. Your perspective and way of thinking will impact your entire day.
10. Saying or thinking mean things about others is fueled by our own insecurities (we all do it sometimes.. but catch it and challenge yourself to understand why you are doing it).
11. Not everyone will like what you do. And that's okay. 
12. They say there's no such thing as balance. I believe there is.. it is just always shifting.
13. Life is too short not to go for the things that make you happy. Do what YOU want. You don't need to meet everyone's expectations.
14. Sometimes change really sucks. And sometimes it just takes time to see why it was so important.
15. I'm not sure I want to call it destiny, but I believe all of our choices lead us down a path of where we are supposed to be. Take a look back and see how all of your choices led you in the right direction to where you are now. 
16. Self awareness is crucial.
17. It's impossible to avoid bad days sometimes, but you are capable of taking control of your thoughts, reactions, and perspective. It takes practice.
18. You can't hold back on something because you are afraid of what other people think (I know, this is easier said than done).
19. Self doubt can be detrimental.
20. You don't need to know what you plan to do with your life (although sometimes I wish I could just see the future to find out). 
21. It's important to be mindful of others, but in the end you need to do what's best for you.
22. Self perception is all mental.
23. There's only so much time in a day. Use it wisely.
24. Self care is a necessity. Find your thing and incorporate it into your life as often as possible.
25. Gratitude can go a longgg way.
26. No matter what you are going through, someone else out there is experiencing it too.

Now while I truly believe in all of these statements, I also recognize that a lot of them are easier said that done. There are many things on this list that I am still practicing and striving to reach on a daily basis. I hope these thoughts gave you a little boost of positivity! Have a great day! (: