22 things I've learned by 22

Today is my 22nd birthday. Nothing special, just another year of my 20's. Every year I like to reflect on how far I've come and what I have accomplished in the last. Here are some thoughts I have that I wanted to share with all of you.

22 things I learned by 22:

Learning to say no is hard, but you have to be firm in your decisions
Lack of sleep will catch up to you
Planning your weeks are important and maximize your time
Planning in general is so helpful, meals, friends, school, plans, etc. I feel like every year time always passes me by and it's something I'm working on getting better at.
Communication in all of your relationships, whether it be friends, work, school, significant other, family -- it's crucial. No one knows what you're thinking or what you are dealing with unless you talk.
Setting your goals and timelines are soooo important. Where do you want to be in life in a year? in 2? In five? Figuring out what course you want to take in life is tough, but it deserves some thinking.
Always tell people how much you love them. Life goes by fast and you never know when you will have your last moment with someone.
Listen more-- this is a skill that took me a long time to master, but listening more than talking pays off
Your goals are worth the time, and take time to pursue what's important to you
Listen to what your body needs
Take personal days -- read a book, light a candle, do a face mask, clean your room, or simply just rest.
Alone time is necessary
Budgeting your money pays off
Splurge on yourself, but in moderation
Cooking at home is way better than eating out all the time, and you will feel better too
Your $5 Starbucks latte really isn't as fulfilling as it used to be
Being an adult isn't easy, but it's apart of life
Complaining will get you nowhere
Embrace your quirks (Mine that I am learning to love are that I snort when I laugh and my lisp)
You are unique and beautiful to a stranger, sometimes we forget our beauty and our light but we all have something special about us that is worth sharing
The power of prayer and a good relationship with God will take you a long way. Talk to him, he's always listening.
You must prioritize yourself above all