There are a lot of things I wish I had known five years ago, but living and learning is all part of the process. We gain knowledge, not only from books, but mostly from experience. Five years ago, I was younger and full of fear. However, things have changed since then, so here is some advice that I wish I had known then.

Be open to new things

Take a trip on the wild side! Do not be afraid to try new foods, a new hairstyle, or new people. You can even try traveling to a country that you have never been to before. It’s easy to get caught up in the same routine and always order the same meals at the same restaurant, but get out of that rut and be open to anything new that comes your way. This will make your life so much more exciting!

Don’t change your values to fit in

When I came to college, I thought I had to create a new version of myself to fit in. I quickly realized that this put me on track to becoming unhappy. Don’t sacrifice your beliefs and standards in order to fit in with others; you will find people that accept and love you for who you are as a person.

Know when to let go

Sometimes when we get older, we drift apart from some friends and get closer with others. This is normal because as we change and mature, so do the relationships and friendships that we have. Respect the shift and let go of a relationship that has become toxic; hold on tight to the relationships that you feel are worth fighting for.

Be confident in yourself

Work with what your mama gave ya! This is the number one piece of advice that I wish I had followed five years ago. My mother always told me to be confident in myself, but I don’t think I realized how to do that and how important it really is. Confidence is essential to putting the best version of yourself out there to the world. Confidence allows you to conquer your goals without fear. Do not waste time worrying about what others think of you. Focus on following your dreams. Power stance, anyone?