20 Things I Learned in 2020

This year has honestly been one of the most confusing times of my life. Being a college student transitioning to online classes during not only a very important election but a global pandemic is something I can surely say I've never done before.

Being in such confusing times has lead me to situations I didn't think I would experience, let alone learn from. I have grown so much within these past 12 months and it's hard to think who I even was at the beginning of it. Listed below are 20 things I learned in 2020. Hopefully, it can help anyone who needs it or give a quick reminder of how great you are and what you deserve.

1. Be kind, you don't know what others are going through. Think about how many of your problems you bring to the surface.

2. Make decisions for you and only you. You're the main character queen why do something if you don't want to.

3. Don't force anyone into your life. Not everyone you meet is meant to be apart of your story, and that's ok.

4. The small things aren't worth being mad at. Don't waste your time and energy being upset over something that won't matter tomorrow.

5. Alone time is important. It's good to educate yourself on yourself.

6. Say I love you sincerely and often. You never know what tomorrow brings.

7. Be patient. There are no due dates on life, no need to rush.

8. Do little things that make you happy when you need them. When I'm feeling down I get a Dr.Pepper from McDonald’s because it makes me happy :).

9. Don't be so quick to judge. The only thing that comes out of negative assumptions is negative thoughts.

10. Give yourself a break. You don't always have to be doing something, so be lazy.

11. Surround yourself with the people who bring out the best in you. If you can't share how you feel without being nervous of the judgment you need better friends.

12. Mental health comes first. It's ok if you're having a bad day do what you need to get through it.

13. Don't settle for anything less than what you deserve. Don't justify their actions because you like their company.

14. Let your feelings out whether through paper or people. Holding things in will only lead to bigger outbursts later.

15. Don't forget to love yourself. It's good to spoil yourself, you deserve it.

16. It's ok to be upset after making the right decision. You wouldn't be the person you are right now if it weren't for change.

17. Give yourself a minute. After something bad happens breathe and get yourself to a calm and collected place before letting it out.

18. Find ways to fit positivity into your daily life. I follow multiple accounts on Instagram that post affirmations for daily reminders.

19. Manifest!! Release the negativity in your life and start focusing your positive energy on things you want in life.

20. It's ok to be confused. We are living through a global pandemic nothing is normal, so don't pressure yourself into thinking you have control of changing that.

Goodbye to the most insane year the world has ever experienced. 2021 I can not wait for all the new and exciting things you will bring.

p.s. The butterfly picture is from my favorite affirmation account on Instagram. I linked it to the picture, so go check them out!

With love,

Ellen