Sunday 20 August 2017

21 Things I Wish I Knew Before I Turned 21

In a couple of weeks I'll be turning 22, as I reflect on the past year I remember approaching 21 and thinking that this was it - the big 2-1; I was officially an adult, I had no excuses, this was the year my life would start taking shape. Things would be different this year - this year would be the year I would grow in my faith, work harder in university, finally get in shape, meet the perfect guy and all would be well as I stepped into the world of official "adulting".

Now, as I look back I can see I was maybe a little naive to think that all that would happen just because it was now legal for me to get a pilot's licence or drink in America. Instead, I look back on 21 with a mixed bag of emotions - it has been a great year and I did do a few of the things I mentioned I wanted to - but not all of them and by the end of this year, I certainly don't feel like my life is all together - in fact, some parts feel more disorganised and confusing than ever before. Instead, if I were to go back to this time last year here's a list of 21 Things I wish I knew before I turned 21.

21 Things I Wish I Knew Before I Turned 21

1. It's okay to make mistakes.
You're human, you are going to make them. As long as you learn from them, it's okay to make them.
2. Relationships won't always be perfect - and that's perfectly fine.
I'm still struggling with this one, we're all imperfect people with imperfect relationships - show yourself and others a little bit of grace.
3. Be kind to your parents.
They are your biggest support and biggest blessing, love them, honour them.
4. Routines are good.
5. Exercise isn't actually that bad - in fact it can be pretty fun.
6. Your relationship status doesn't define your worth.
7. Read more.
(Subnote: you should have read Harry Potter 15 years ago, how did it take you until you were 21?!)
8. Packed lunches are the best.
They are cheap, healthier and did I mention cheaper - you are a student!
9. You're not going to have your life figured out at 21 - but guess what? No one else has either!
10. Comparison is the thief of joy.
- Repeat it over and over!
11. Skyscanner is a dangerous but wonderful thing.
- Take advantage of it.
12. Take lots of pictures.
13. Enjoy the long walks to university.
You won't always have them or the company.
14. Stop buying take out coffee - bring your own!
The canteen is a lot richer because I did not do this.
15. Learn how to budget.
I could have been a lot richer, had I learnt this.
16. Don't take life too seriously.
17. Work hard.
Hard work pays off, who knew?
18. You're friends are amazing.
When your whole world feels like it's falling apart - they are always there. You are blessed!
19. Gratitude is the best attitude.
You have been blessed beyond your wildest dreams.
20. Being selfless isn't thinking less of yourself - it's thinking about yourself less.
Be selfless.
21. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, / and do not lean on your own understanding. / In all your ways acknowledge him, / and he will make straight your paths." Proverbs 3 v 5-6

This was my prayer for this year, so I guess I did know this - but it's always good to be reminded.