As my time as a senior at ImmaculataLa Salle and my time a Entertainment Editor for the Royal Courier comes to an end, I’ve been reflecting on the past four years of high school and how I have grown as an individual. Here are eight things I wish someone would have told my younger self, and what I have learned, as I’m graduating high school and heading out into the real world.

• Sometimes trying your best is all you can do

When things aren’t going your way, trying your best is all you can do. When things get hard, take it minute by minute, step by step. 

• Everything in life takes time 

Everything takes time; be patient with yourself. Change and progress will come, but it will take a long time. Learn to be okay with that. 

• Be selfish! Focus on yourself 

Sometimes being selfish and choosing yourself over everything is what you have to do sometimes. Always do things to better yourself and make yourself the best version you can be. 

• Trust your instinct 

Your instinct is almost always right. Learn to trust it; it will help you in the future. 

• Learn to be proud of yourself because not everyone is going to be happy for you 

Not everyone is going to give you the reaction or celebrate your accomplishments the way you want them, too. Learn to be happy for yourself and learn that you don’t need the validation of others.  

• Nothing is truly embarrassing 

Nothing is embarrassing as long as you don’t make it embarrassing. No one is really ever paying attention to you; don’t overthink every mistake you make.

• People come and go 

People come in and out of our lives to teach us lessons. Don’t be bitter when someone leaves, instead take what you learned from that relationship and use it as a life lesson.

• High school is one big game of telephone  

High school is just one big game of telephone; words get twisted and changed. Don’t get too caught up in the game.