25 things I know

Today, I turn 25, and in true twenty-something fashion, I thought I'd write a list of 25 things I've learned over the years. 25 things that have shaped me and made me. 25 things I know with great certainty. 25 things I think worth sharing.

1. Birthdays are important. Celebrate yourself, love your age, embrace the day.

2. Sometimes, the only thing that fixes a bad day is a nap and a second (or third, or fourth) coffee. Treat yourself.

3. Being introverted doesn't mean you're shy. Don't let other people put any label on you that you wouldn't put on yourself.

4. On that note, sometimes labels are bad. But sometimes they aren't. It's okay to push back from them, but it's also okay to accept them.

5. It's important to stand up for the equal rights and treatment of women, but that doesn't mean you have to be a woman CEO or that you have to agree with what every woman says. People who stand for the same causes are allowed to have differences.

6. Dessert is almost never a bad idea. You shouldn't feel guilty for indulging every now and then.

7. It's good to have at least one hobby that's just yours. Individuality is severely underrated, and it's good to have something that makes you you.

8. Not everyone is a gourmet chef, expert crafter, diligent calligrapher, or talented musician. It's okay to be average.

9. It's also okay to excel. But remember it doesn't make you worth more than other people.

10. Never underestimate the power of a true compliment.

11. Your existence is more important than you realise. Don't devalue your life.

12. Kids who were mean to you in school won't necessarily still be mean later in life. Give second chances.

13. Sometimes, we need to let go of people. The internet makes this really difficult, but you shouldn't have to feel guilty for needing to move on with your life.

14. Growing up is one of the greatest privileges you're given. Don't be sad when things aren't like they were in high school or university. This is a good thing.

15. Be strong in your convictions, even if other people don't understand why you are.

16. It's normal to have sad days. Sad days don't mean you're depressed or stupid or that there's anything wrong with you. It just means you're having a sad day.

17. Have at least three people in your circle that you'll let see you cry.

18. Don't skip breakfast.

19. Your spouse should be your best friend, but he or she shouldn't be your only friend.

20. Every so often, try something that you're certain you hate. Tastes change.

21. Pleasures shouldn't have to be guilty. You're allowed to like whatever the hell you like.

22. Compromise is necessary, and it doesn't make you a loser. Compromise means everyone wins.

23. The highlight reel is hardly ever accurate. Be wary of people who are incapable of vulnerability.

24. It's okay to disagree with what other people think. Often, it's an amazing gift, because it allows us to take in different perspectives and learn things we might otherwise have ignored.

25. Remember that you are loved, dearly and deeply and always.

What are some lessons you've learned over the years?