The 18 Things I Learned at 18
- Human beings are incredible. Each and every single person has a story to tell and things for you to learn from. Talking to these people and learning from them are some of the most incredible lessons one can learn in life.
- Journalling is not a weakness, neither are having emotions. It’s extremely healthy for the mind and will furthermore bring you far in life.
- Collect moments. Not things. Material goods mean nothing when there aren’t people to share it all with. Human relationships are worth so much more than any material item.
- Capture the important moments and savor that forever. But always remember to live in the moment no matter what. Don’t get caught up in trying to document everything for the future and forget about the now.
- Hard work will always pay off but do not go out seeking an award. The most valuable thing you can earn from working hard is the recognition of yourself. Working hard feels good.
- Don’t put so much emphasis on being clean or ruining something nice. Be willing to do the grunt work and go the extra mile just because.
- People are not always how they seem. First impressions are worth nothing and people are so much more than just their appearances.
- Be authentic to yourself. Don’t become someone that you’re not and don’t become someone that does things for a certain reason.
- Social media is bullshit. It’s fantastic and connects our world but it means absolutely nothing. Don’t believe everything that you see online.
- Everyone is worth getting to know. People are incredible and worth talking to no matter what you think of them.
- Greed is in everyone and is something that is difficult to fight. But greed can be controlled and should not take over your life. Dedicate yourself to being kind and doing good.
- Being nice to others and really treating people the way you wish to be treated will ultimately reward you. It makes you a happier person and allows for others this same happiness.
- Down time is as important as everything else. Sometimes that cup of tea and Netflix is just the right thing to do.
- Be spontaneous and seize the opportunities that you’re offered. If you can jump in the fucking water, just do it and think about everything else afterwards.
- Friends are important. Cherish them and be grateful for the people who choose to surround you for unknown reasons. they’re amazing people and these relationships are really fucking important.
- There are alternative ways of living life. It doesn’t just have to be the traditional 9 – 5 and starting a family. Take in the things around you and listen to other people’s stories. Live life not on a path that’s already set.
- Gratitude is important. Be grateful for the things that you have and the people whom love you. Be grateful no matter what.
- Live to your own conditions and nobody else’s expectations.
Just some things that I had learned from my time on board the ship and also my 18 years of life. I remember writing these down in my journal on board and running around and sharing them with the people around me.
I still have so much to learn but these are just a few of the things that I am eternally grateful for and the lessons that have changed the way I view life.
More to read
