18 Things I’ve Learned

Every birthday, your parents ask you, “Do you feel any different?” and you always answer with a sheepish smile and a no. For me, on my 18th birthday, I did feel different. It was the first birthday of my life where I felt noticeably different from 17. I felt older and wiser. I want to share the lessons I’ve learned leading me to my 18th birthday, and some things I’ve learned after I turned 18.

You may not think you’re dehydrated but I’m here to tell you that unless you feel refreshed when you wake up, your skin is clear, and you have energy during the day, you’re probably dehydrated.

High school is difficult for everyone, for most especially their junior year. You aren’t lazy if you are behind and have no drive to do anything. You could have anxiety, depression (seasonal or otherwise) or some form of ADHD or ADD. Or you could be experiencing burnout. You are not worth how much productivity you are creating. You are allowed to float right now because none of this matters after high school.

There will always be someone more experienced than you.

No matter what you decide to do in life, there will always be someone older, better, and more naturally gifted than you. That doesn’t mean you don’t have a place or can’t become the best. Don’t strive for perfection, strive for satisfaction in yourself. Perfection does not exist, but as long as you walk away happy and proud that’s all that matters.

No one appreciates someone who thinks they know it all or someone who boasts about having it all. Everyone is trying to get through their day and no one likes the kids that scream in the hallway or say weird things to random people. It’s not funny and not helpful.

I promise you, that text isn’t worth it.

Learning to keep your peace and bite your tongue is a valuable lesson to learn. Don’t mistake this for being walked over; you will know where the line is. If you know something you say is just going to stir the pot more and turn the water to boiling, don’t do it or say it.

In high school, you always feel like people are judging you and there’s a spotlight on you. The truth is, most people don’t care. Everyone is in their own head. The other half will be excited for you. It’s okay to be excited about something. Being numb and deadpan all the time is exhausting.

This is something I’m still learning, as I didn’t grow up around budget wise family members, so it’s transferred over into my teenage life. Learning how to save and show self-restraint will help you so much in the long run. There are tons of budget ideas online and ways to track it. Also, some teachers will be willing to help you, especially if you’re a senior.

It sounds cliche, but what I mean is really admit to yourself what you’re good at and what you struggle with. I struggle with deadlines and focusing, but I’m good at holding myself accountable and to a standard. Don’t sign up for president of a club if you KNOW you won’t put in the work; don’t make big plans for projects if you know you don’t have the time. We all have room to improve, it’s not a good use of your time to pretend you don’t.

I thought it was a funny joke that generations have made up. It’s real. ESPECIALLY once you get accepted to college, trade school, or you decided to take a gap year and work. Try to come to school because your attendance still matters and colleges can withdraw your application. Stay smart though senioritis.

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