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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Clark chapter.

I turn 21 today. Wow, that’s kind of weird to write. But hey, I thought I’d share some lessons of what I’ve learned before my birthday. So heed them…or don’t, but these are the things I think are most important to know.

You are perfect the way you are

No one can be you better than you.

Try new things

Let that be food, adventures, or just a new club or class. Give it a try. You’ll regret not trying it.

Always say yes to adventure

Again, you won’t regret it. Explore!!

But also a day under the covers can be perfect

Relax!

Eat that extra ice cream or cake

Who cares? You deserve it.

But also make sure you workout

You’ll feel better and less stressed.

Self-care

Do it. It’s important.

Spend time with friends

They are your constant support. They will always be there for you. Love them.

But also know when to cut out certain people

You don’t need toxivity in your life!

Call your family

Your mom, your dad, your grandma, your brother. Talk to them!

And hang out with them when possible

You will make memories, and they’re the people there for you no matter what.

You’re going to feel lost

That’s normal!

But things happen for a reason

Life will throw you curveballs as well as good times. Each happen for a reason. Each can teach you a lesson.

And it’ll turn out ok in the end

If it’s not ok, it’s not the end of the story.

Try to stop caring what people think

They don’t matter in the end, and why should you change who you are for them?

Things change

Interests, plans, etc. But that’s ok!

Time heals

Most losses just take time. You will overcome it!

Your gut is always right

Books are pretty much always better than the movie

Read! I barely have time to, but try to. You’ll go on adventures and expand your imagination.

Instagram is not always true

Don’t let the perfect photos and big smiles fool you. It’s not always real. You don’t see the gloomy days or bad hair days. You don’t have to show that on your social media either, but a break or just a reminder is always helpful.

Growing up takes time

It doesn’t happen over night. You’re still going to have to call your parents to see if the cheese that expired two days ago is ok or how to do the laundry. That’s ok. You’ll learn. You got this. You got time.

Well, that’s my birthday present to you all. Hope it helps!

Monica Sager is a freelance writer from Clark University, where she is pursuing a double major in psychology and self-designed journalism with a minor in English. She wants to become an investigative journalist to combat and highlight humanitarian issues. Monica has previously been published in The Pottstown Mercury, The Week UK, Worcester Telegram and Gazette and even The Boston Globe. Read more of Monicaā€™s previous work on her Twitter @MonicaSager3.