19 LESSONS FROM A 19-YEAR-OLD

1. Learn and re-learn consistently  

    Nothing can compare to the drama of exploring to your full potential as a beautiful and uniquely-created human being. There are so many ways in which you can improve your life. Instead of fretting about what you don’t have or can’t do, take action to create something that would positively impact your life today.

2. It is unrealistic to expect everyone to like you

    Trying to impress other people just to like you is futile. It is impossible to please everyone though accept constructive criticisms. And sometimes, instead of assuming that they are the problem, you can look at yourself to see what needs to be changed from within. 

3.  Learn from failure

    All my life I prayed for courage and wisdom, but it was through my inhibitions that I learned that courage was already available to me. To continuously seek wisdom to guide me in this beautiful life. Giving myself to make mistakes but learn from them. No one is perfect (cliché but true).

4. Don’t be too hard on yourself

    Learnt to loosen up--that is not to be stiff and stuck on rules but balancing life and responsibilities. 

5. Spend less time on social media

     It offered me a sense of inner security that freed me to live my life as fully and passionately as I pleased.

6. Value your solitude

    I started with 5 but in time I was able to find 10, then 20 and eventually 30 minutes for myself. Amazingly, these quiet half an hour (or so) each day is recharging and restoring me to sanity. It is through these times that I reflect, assess myself, much of which is spent in prayer and meditation, that I find solitude and peace. As a result, I have learned to enjoy my own company. Though sitting quietly in the midst of turmoil, I find that I am not alone.

7.  Be comfortable in your own skin

    Growing up, insecurity flowed in my persona because of my skin color but later on I realized that this gift of having a natural morena skin is something I should be proud of when some ladies out there have to exert effort in order to get the color. I learned that I am a worthwhile human being just as I am. With that kind of self-acceptance, I began to see my options. Condemning your imperfections will never enhance your appreciation of life. 

8. Be committed to your own growth.

    I personally think that with grace and maturity, you will be able to handle very difficult situations with a great deal of peace, and the delight in your life continues to exceed your wildest dreams. 

9. Widen your perspective

    When I change my perspective, the behavior of those around me may also change but there is no guarantee that it will turn to my liking. I’ve learned to make choices not because of the impression I might have on others but because they are good for me. When we understand why others act in a certain way, we get to smirk and just get on with our lives knowing that you are standing in your own good ground. 

10. Recognize how powerful your mind can be.

    The sun will not always be shining and so expect that there are days when you don’t feel good and so you need to consciously make choices about how you would perceive YOUR world would be.

11. Surround yourself with people who bring out the best in you. 

    And so we need to be surrounded with people (regardless of life status) who we look up to for learnings and genuine advice, motivations, establish goals and who model values and genuine happiness. You’re only as strong as the environment around you.

12. Spend money wisely so you get to save. 

    Hello adulting world lol! It would be selfish to keep your resources to your own. Be a blessing to others but keep some for the rainy days. 

13. Live in the present and find what you can enjoy there

Hmm strive for balance, laag pd panagsa HAAHAAH. Look ways to enjoy life--try a new hobby, skill, eat good food or call a friend whom you might be needing your ears. 

14. You can’t cope with something unless you acknowledge its reality

    Acceptance is the key  *wink*

15.  Invest on a journal

    I’ve learned to be a lot more private and having a journal made me realize so many things. It’s sooo much easier for me to pour out my thoughts, feelings, questions and wonders in life plus a help in organizing my plans.

16. Nurture yourself with gratitude.

    I perceive a better world whenever I set time to show my gratitude. Sometimes the only way you can determine what to accept and what to change is by trial and error. 

17. Don't compare yourself or try to be someone else.

    Awful stuff happens to everyone. Sometimes there's an immediate silver lining. Sometimes there isn't and at these times, you have to accept that some things just don't make at the time being but maybe they will -later. There's always someone out there who has more money or  a more (perceived) perfect relationship. Comparing yourself or trying to be someone else is a game you'll never win.

18. Appreciate the little things

    I believe that life is built upon layers of little everyday accomplishments. Having fewer things lets you appreciate more of the things that you have. If you’re not contented with what you have right now, you will never be happy as you will seek for more earthly things.  Major strides often begin with very small steps .

19. Cultivate healthy habits

       The irony lol HAHHA because I usually sleep late! But slowly embracing the gulay life and yoga every once in a while.  Take care of yourself guys! Your health matters the most.

Note: I am not a pro to say but I would just like to share the learnings I got from the people whom I treasure and I hope I am able to ink a point or two to you my dear friend. Thank you for taking the time to read! Have no fear but instead have faith! To God Be All The Glory and Honor! 

Sincerely, Kristine