i. write more. reflect more. be unafraid to write what scares you.

ii. keep track of things in your life. make lists and stick to them. schedule and pay attention to deadlines.

iii. work hard and make effective use of your time. learn when to take a break and when not to.

iv. exercise more. eat healthier. drink more water. rest. pay attention to your body and take care of yourself. you only have one body and it’s in your power to make it the best it can be.

v. address issues headfirst. don’t leave them to fester and pile up. the weight off your shoulders will be incredible.

vi. read more. expose yourself to new ideas, facts, and philosophies.

vii. be creative – in your writing, journaling, makeup, wardrobe, and thoughts.

viii. keep it real. life is too short for illusion and deception. be honest. know when to be brutal and when to be tactful.

ix. take no shit but deal no shit. don’t let people treat you badly. don’t cause people harm.

x. eliminate negativity. surround yourself with people who care about you and things that make you happy.

xi. let your friends and family know you love them. affection is not a weakness.

xii. love yourself for who you really are, not for who people think you to be.

xiii. don’t be afraid of having insecurities. you are human.

xiv. be confident. meet new people. try new things. don’t be afraid to go out of your comfort zone. there’s so much out there and you can be a part of it.

xv. talk deeply with people. learn their stories and perspectives. empathize and understand. discuss meaningful things.

xvi. it’s okay if you feel out of place with the religion you once followed. your beliefs are yours and yours alone. think and reflect. expose yourself to different ideas. it’s okay if you don’t have all the answers right now.

xvii. pay attention to you. understand who you are. sympathize with yourself and know your own needs. don’t push yourself into generalized boxes and don’t settle for less.

xviii. you are a work in progress. forgive yourself. your life is yours to create.