"Be Groovy or Leave, Man"

Well, being almost twenty and being graduated for almost a year now, I can finally say that life does indeed get better after high school.

In high school, I was convinced that I needed to have straight A's, have perfect clothes, have a huge group of friends, and achieve a scholarship to attend my dream college.

I did very well in school, but I was so caught up in that fake life of trying to be the best of the best. Graduation slowly crept up on me, and I found myself stuck.

I no longer had interest in selling my soul to a University that I would be spending most of my life trying to pay back.

So I dropped everything, and decided to pursue a life that I loved. I decided that I would eliminate things in my life that brought me frustration and doubt. I wanted to finally start doing things my way.

It was hard at first, and at times it still is. It takes time to let go of some of your old ways of thinking and to adopt newer and better ones.

So, let me share with you some of my secrets to having the best life that you can.

1. Learn To Love Yourself.

This will always be my number one, and will always be the hardest one. Begin by leaving whatever isn't healthy. Whether that's a relationship, a job, or a belief. Stop looking outside of yourself for value, and start taking care of yourself and make your happiness a priority. We should love ourselves so fiercely that when others see us, they know exactly how it should be done. We have enough in life against us already, don't be against yourself.

2. Don't Say Maybe If You Want To Say No.

I personally have the hardest time with this one. I'm such a people pleaser, and sometimes it's gotten me into a lot of trouble. This is one of those mindsets that we have to get rid of. Learn that it's okay to state your opinion, to make your voice be known. If you don't want to, stand up for yourself and simply say, no.

3. Always Forgive, Even If They Are Not Sorry.

Grudges are overrated. Let go of those who have wronged you, and realize that they are going through their own trials, too. Forgiveness is a process. It's a choice that you have to make everyday until you are free of the hurt. If someone in your life does something wrong, don't forget all the things they did right.

4. Travel, As Much As You Can.

Ever since I have graduated I've constantly had this desire to travel. Last summer, I was able to travel across the U.S and it was honestly one of the greatest experiences of my life. It's a big step to leave your bubble, but once you do, I promise that it will be worth it. The people you meet, the places you see, leaving behind everything you know, makes it all worth it. Make future plans to travel, it will give you something to look forward to, and give you a good break from your daily routine. I plan to travel to Alaska, Thailand, and Iceland in the next few years and I couldn't be more excited.

5. Be Curious, Not Judgmental.

Realize that every single person is going through some sort of trial in their life. Some greater than others, but a trial is a trial none the less. Become friends with people you never thought you would, dedicate your life to listening and understanding others. In doing so, it will benefit you in becoming a better person.

6. Trust The Vibes You Get, Energy Doesn't Lie.

Always trust your gut. Make a decision, and stick with it. Don't doubt yourself. When it comes down to it, you have to go with your heart and move forward. And remember, you are always one decision away from a totally different life.

7. Do What You Were Created To Do.

Find that thing that gives meaning to your life, and do everything you can to continue it. For example, mine is photography. I discovered it as a little freshman and I haven't stopped since. It has opened up so many doors and opportunities in my life. I have met so many amazing people who have that same motivational drive as I do. It's truly inspiring.

I think we just need to remember that it's so important to be independent. People come and go, and you need to learn that YOU are the only one that can make decisions to achieve a great life. Overall, make your happiness your #1 priority, and everything else will fall into place. You were given this life because you were strong enough to live it, so embrace it.