Happy 4th of July! Tomorrow is my birthday which makes today the last day of my 20th circle around the sun. As I reflect back on the past 364 days, I have very little complaints about my 20th year. I did a lot in the last year and I loved just about every second of my 20th year. Let’s talk about 20 things this year taught me...

If you want to do it all, you can. You just need to find the passion and have the drive to make it all work.
Don’t be too proud to ask for help. Connections and help from others is what can put you head and shoulders above the competition. Just remember to write a thank you note.
Throw a freaking party. It’ll be fun.
Fill your days from sunrise to sunset so when you have a spare day, you can truly appreciate its laziness.
It’s okay to recognize when a relationship has run its course. Marie Kondo that ish. Thank it for what it was in your life and move on.
Make it a habit to spend time with the people you’re “meaning to catch up with”. You never know if you’ll actually get the chance to do so before they’re gone.
Guacamole. Is. Amazing.
The three things you should invest in are a nice coat, a nice pair of jeans, and a nice pair of black shoes.
Everyone is going through a difficult time, bad day, or rough patch. Some people talk about it and some people don’t. Just because someone doesn’t talk about it doesn’t mean it’s all coming up roses.
Coffee is still gross.
Church is home anywhere you go.
A day in by yourself is sometimes much better than a day out with friends. Personal days are just what the doctor ordered sometimes.
Who cares about cake in a mug? Make the whole damn sheet of brownies and eat them in one sitting.
You’ll come across a fair amount of very unprofessional “professionals” in life. Just because they lack professionalism doesn’t give you a pass to do the same.
If you’re about to lose your mind, call your mom. Even at 1AM. She might not be able to help you, but she can at least listen and that’s half the purpose-- just trying to be heard.
Jeopardy is still relevant and now my roommates finally understand.
Learn to cook at least one of your family's favorite recipes. That way after a long day, you’re able to feel like you’re home even if you’re not.
It’s okay to be selfish and put yourself first. How can you help others if you can’t help yourself
Focus on your goals before focusing on a college relationship.
Do as much as you can in college. Before you know it, you’re a washed up senior. Make sure you don’t look back and have regrets.

Twenty was a great year for me all around. I was emotionally and mentally well all year. I enjoyed being with old friends and made plenty of new friends. I learned a lot about myself. I learned I still hate coffee and true crime shows and tequila. I learned a love guacamole and Downton Abbey and sangria. I pushed myself beyond my comfort zone, took on leadership roles, and even started a company. I held two internships, worked two jobs, and earned a 3.8 GPA. I dove further into my faith, said goodbye to loved ones, and took a few trips. I can’t complain about 20 and I’m raising a glass to 21, legally I might add.

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