Things I Learned This Year

People Can Change. I used to think it was always true that people don’t change. I still think its true that you shouldn’t expect them to, but changing isn’t really that difficult. I got into this huge, devastating fight with one of my friends. While there was a lot of facets to it, the most tangible thing was about me leaving things around our house all the time. I thought being scattered was just part of who I was. But it was also the part of the fight that I had control over, so I worked on it. Its been five months and I have the cleanest apartment of anyone I know now. It was actually really easy. It meant a lot to someone, and I found that cleaning was a really good outlet for my anxiety.

It has to do with having an open mind. I didn’t assume my friend was crazy for being annoyed or that my right to live the way I was accustomed to was greater than her comfort.

Don’t Fill an Entire Watermelon With Vodka and Then Play Spin The Bottle. Seriously.

If it Makes You Happy, Go With It. I get like, a sick amount of happiness from dumb things like reading magazines, going to the beach, and putting make-up on. I decided to spend more time doing these kind of things this year. I have new friends that share my interests, and am a lot happier overall.

You Have to Respect People’s Wishes. Being a smart girl I naturally assume I know what’s best for people. And being extremely well-intentioned I’m inclined to be a little to persistent in trying to give people what  I think they need rather than what they ask me for. That’s kind of rude. And it’s kind of like asking a jogger if they want a ride. That’s not the point, and it’s not helpful.

Don’t be Proud. If you need help, ask for it. A lot of times having anxiety leads to inaction when you’re faced with a problem because you get too nervous and stressed out to do anything about it. But being vulnerable and talking to someone about it helps. Sometimes you have to cry on the phone to your mom even though you are 26. Sometimes the solution suxxx and you don’t want to do it. That’s life.

Don’t Go to Raves on Work Nights. I never say “I’m too old for this,” but at any age, this is just a bad idea.

Don’t Date Someone You’re Not Interested In. Give them a fair shake, but if you don’t like them, leave them alone.