Now, I know what most of you are thinking, “Why am I even wasting my time reading this article”? What can a 24-year-old millennial teach me about life that I don’t already know?

Well for one remember no matter the age or who the person is, we can ALL learn one thing from everyone, whether it’s the do’s or don’ts of life, it’s a lesson. Shoot I’m still new things from my 5-year-old cousin.

But this article isn’t me preaching on how you should live and what you’re doing wrong in life, it’s simply me wanting clarity and reflecting on what these past few chaotic years has taught me. So I asked that while reading you have an open mind and if you do learn something apply it to your life if you want, and if you choose none of these things are valuable to you then as my mom say, “do you boo”!

1. The power begins in how you CHOOSE to think.

When I heard other successful mentors say, “your mind is the most powerful weapon you have in life.” I thought it was just a cliché quote. But as I got older I recently began to notice that even when things aren’t going the way I planned, if I CHOOSE to have a more optimistic/positive outlook on the situation not only does it help with my mood but it’s me learning to take control on what I choose to let my mind dwell on. Emphasis on the word CHOOSE because everything we do in life is a choice and the statement of, us “having the power to CHOOSE happiness” is in fact, true. Think about it, how many times have you met someone and maybe after a few weeks or months, they reveal something traumatic that happen in their past and you say something like “oh my gosh, I would’ve never know because you’re so nice to everyone”. That’s a prime example of them CHOOSING to not let what happen in their life stop them from being happy.

2. No opinion but YOUR own matters.

For years, I didn’t do things because I cared too much about other’s opinions. I was afraid to do this or that because what if they don’t like it or judge me for it? I forgot that in life there’s only one-person whose opinion that truly matters. That opinion is my own.

3. FEAR means you’re headed in the right direction.

As a kid, we’re taught that fear is something you should steer clear of. Now, I think of fear as just a confirmation that I’m going in the right direction. The right direction being the OPPOSITE of normality and comfortably. Fear is just False Evidence Appearing Real. Think about it. How many times have you been scared to do something, whether it’s learning to ride a bike or applying for a position? First, you’re scared as hell. Shoot, even ready to shit bricks! But after you do it, you’re overjoyed and proud of yourself for not letting it stop you from getting what it is you wanted.

4. Nothing lasts forever, so enjoy!

Whether it’s friends, relationships, or things, nothing in our life will be there forever. I’ve learned that instead of spending time being unappreciative or wishing we could change someone or something, simply live in the NOW. Enjoy that friend who’s by your side right now. Enjoy that concert. Enjoy your grandma’s long stories on how life was different back in her time. Just enjoy it because one day she won’t be there to talk your ear off and you’ll be wishing you could hear her voice just one more time.

5. Don’t overthink just post!

With everything and one being so technology driven it’s so easy to get caught up with social media and it’s likes. For a while, I wouldn’t post pictures or videos because I always overanalyze each one and if it was “perfect” enough. I would even only post at certain time to guarantee likes, and if I didn’t get enough likes I would delete it. I know, superficial right. But one day I realize, it’s social media! Here today and gone tomorrow! Stop caring about things that don’t matter, do it because YOU want to!

6. All you have are your experiences and memories!

While solo traveling I met this woman from Thailand. I shared with her on how this was my first time really traveling out of the state. And she shared a piece of advice I will always take with me. She said, “Unlike the materialistic things in life that can be easily taken from you, your memories and life experiences can NEVER be taken away from you. So, do more of it.” That sentence alone gave me a new perspective and admiration for life.

7. You can never know enough.

If there’s one thing that’s true is that you don’t stop learning even when you’re done with school. Whether it’s from articles or just random uber drivers I meet while headed to work, I make it my mission to sustain some type of valuable information from the conversation. Remember, you have two ears and one mouth for a reason! Do more listening than talking and you’ll be surprised at how much you can learn.

8. Always, ALWAYS FORGIVE!

Forgive. Not for them, but for yourself. When you forgive it leaves more room in your heart to love and be compassionate towards mankind. I remember one day one of my friends asked me how many times I would forgive someone who continued to do me wrong. I shared on how Jesus said to forgive “seventy times seven times”. If you’re like me, you would need to use a calculator to get the answer but it’s 490 times. Yeah. I know my mouth dropped too when I read that verse. It’s something, I believe, everyone no matter the religion should live by. Now, of course don’t be naive like me, you can forgive someone without allowing them back into your life. One should forgive to restore their happiness and peace, NOT for the gratification of the other person.

9. Be a kid, EVERYDAY!

Do something every day that will make your inner child come alive! The biggest difference between kids and adults is that kids spend majority of their time doing things that makes them happy. Adults spend their time doing a lot of things that bring them misery. And I know what you’re thinking, “Well Kierra, they don’t have bills to pay. I do.” I understand. If you go back and retract your last 24 hours I can guarantee by even subtracting your 8 hours working, you spent a lot of that time scrolling on social media or watching things just to be entertained instead of spending even just 30 minutes working on your photography or creating that business you dreamed of having. All I’m saying is no matter if it’s just for 15 minutes a day, do something that will bring YOU joy, and will feed YOUR soul.

10. Laughter is free medicine. Take more of it!

Laughter has been scientifically proven to be a form of medicine. It truly does heal people. No matter how tough of a day you’re having, try watching a stand up comedy show or movie, I can guarantee in less than 15 minutes you will be less tense and more at peace with what didn’t go your way. Learn to laugh in every situation and I can promise you will radiate and attract so much joy and happiness.

11. Smile 😊

It’s that simple, smile. And if you already are, do more of it! You not only look beautiful doing it, but it’s been known that it’s quite difficult to be upset or sad while smiling. So, make a habit of smiling, no matter your circumstance!

12. Be grateful for your parents, no matter what!

No matter if you agree with everything they do or haven’t done for you, tell your parents thank you. As a kid, you never realize how tough it is trying to teach and care for another human being while fighting your own internal battles. So just thank them for trying and take what they’ve taught you and do better for your kids.

13. No matter how hard you try, you can’t avoid pain!

Realize pain is apart of life and that we all experience it. We shouldn’t spend our lives trying to run from it, instead realize it’s there in our lives for a reason. Whether we see it right now or not, it is through pain in hardship that we become the strong courageous person we imagine ourselves being. Like one of my favorite motivational speakers say, “get comfortable being uncomfortable, it is the only way to grow”.

14. Be more appreciative of the good times.

I used to be one of those people who never truly enjoyed the good times because I was always so suspicious. Having thoughts like “uh oh well things are going too good, something bad is going to happen soon.” Although its true nothing good last forever, doesn’t mean we shouldn’t appreciate and enjoy all the blessing and memories we’re making in that exact moment. Learn to let go and just appreciate good things without expectation.

15. Give with no expectations.

Giving should come from the heart, with no judgement, no expectations, no stipulations. It is simply just an act of kindness done with love. There’s a quote, “ giving is the most selfish thing you can do because the gratification, the goodness that comes to you, the good feeling, the good feeling from helping others — nothing is better than that.” And it’s so true there’s been times when i would purchase a piece of clothing and felt happy in that moment, but a few days later, I no longer have that joy i once had. But when i give to others, whether that be advice to friends, time with family, or money to others. That feeling of joy is with me for weeks on out. I also want to point out, when you’re giving to those especially in need, don’t try to play God and think you know there “story”. Don’t think their all abusing substances, just simply give and hope that it will be put to good use and if not at least God knows your intentions were good.

16. Don’t spend your memories behind the phone.

Especially today, when filming and photographing even our food, is top priority. I’ve realized that although it’s good to capture our experiences, it’s more important to me that I make sure I’m fully present in that moment. I remember there being a time when you would go to concerts or clubs and people were literally just dancing and enjoying the music with little to no phones out. Now, it’s like you can’t even see what’s going on because everyone is so focused on proving to their followers how cool they are. I’m not saying don’t take pictures or videos. I’m saying just ask yourself which is more important to you, living in that moment making those memories that will be with you forever or simply just getting that perfect selfie or video to post online.

17. Worrying doesn’t help you live longer.

I can honestly say if there’s one thing I’ve been consistent with this year and that is — worrying. The amount of times I talked myself out of accomplishing my goals or hanging out with friends because I was so worried about bills, my career, my life, etc. still blows my mind. And it wasn’t until I read this verse about worrying that said “look at the birds: they do not sow seeds, gather a harvest and put it in barns, yet your father in heaven takes care of them. Aren’t you worth much more than birds? Can any of you live a bit longer by worrying”. (Matthew 6:26–27) In that exact moment, I stopped and truly let it sink in. By worrying, I’m not increasing my days on earth. If anything, I’m just wasting them by doing something that’s not beneficial to me or those around me. I’m not saying I no longer struggle with worry; I’ve just learned when it does resurface into my mind, I can meditate on this verse to remind me on the truth.

18. Plan for the future but don’t be attached.

Although planning is important when it comes to any goal. I’ve learned to plan for my future but not be so attached to the “how” it will come about. Life ALWAYS happen and is there to shake up our world whether we like it or not. But by not being so attached to the steps you think is necessary to make your dreams come into flourishment, you are less likely to react and give up so easily on what it is you want.

19. It’s okay to outgrow people.

For a while I always thought there was something wrong with me for feeling like I didn’t share the same interest as my friends anymore or that we were in two different stages of life. But I later accepted that it’s quite normal to outgrow people in life, in fact it’s necessary. It just means things are changing, ya’ll are growing, hint the phrase “growing apart”. It doesn’t mean you hate them or don’t care about them anymore; it just means this next stage of your life they wont completely be apart of, and that’s okay. Change is okay.

20. Radiate what you want to receive.

It’s that simple. Karma is real and isn’t just associated with the bad things in life, it does good as well. If you want love, put out love into the world. If you want to receive blessings whether that’s monetary or a new job, put out positive energy into the world and you will get it back.

21. Love EVERYONE!!!

Now and days, we say we love everyone but only show it when the person aligns with our political or religious belief. When I say I love everyone, I mean just that. You don’t have to agree with their lifestyle and what they do to love them. Just CHOOSE to show love to others no matter what and I can guarantee your life will be a little less frustrating. Remember, love wins all.

22. We all have the power to heal each other.

If we all realized we were each other’s healers and gave love, could you imagine how much evil or bad things wouldn’t happen? We all walk around this world like our problems are bigger than the other person’s. Whether it’s dysfunctional family, anxiety, insecurity, verbal or physical abuse, each one of us have our own suffering. The only way to internally heal is by loving each other. No hate. No judgement, just through love and compassion. Truly lending an ear and shoulder for each other.

23. Do more of what you LOVE and less of what you hate.

Like #9 of being a kid every day. Every moment of our life we make choices, whether it be what we want to eat for breakfast or life altering decisions. We are still making choices. I’ve learned that no matter how big the monetary value is, if the work you are doing isn’t bring you true fulfillment within there won’t be true joy or passion in it. So, choose daily to do things that you love because eventually all the rewards and recognition will follow.

24. Choose YOU.

Most of all, learn to choose you. All my life, I put others and their needs before my own and that eventually lead me to being miserable, hating my life and lacking true passion for life. I no longer knew what made me happy. But these last few weeks I decided to make myself a priority by doing things that brought me joy and gave me a feeling of aliveness. I can honestly say it’s been one of the best feelings I’ve had in a long time. I’ve felt a since of internal peace, joy, and a new passion for life like never before. I’ve noticed since I began putting myself first, I now have more advice, love, and compassion to give to others because I have first taken care of me. So, do it, choose you from this point forward.

p.s. this is my first article. like if you enjoyed!