What I’ve Learned From Life // 21st Birthday Edition

So as this post goes live, I will be celebrating my 21st birthday. I must admit, I’m not looking forward to this ‘big’ birthday as my 20th birthday was bad enough and I’m scared getting older will only be more daunting for me. Having a rocky teenagehood has left me in the mindset that I’m not yet in my 20s. I feel like I didn’t get to be a teenager and I’m not the way ‘most’ 21 year olds are, especially the people I see online who I was in school with. Some have kids, some drive, some have careers or are at university and I’m just… here. Trying to get through every day but living in the world of mental illness, therapy etc. Anyway, I’m not old or experienced in any stretch of the imagination but I have still learned a few things about myself, and the world, since I was born in 1996 and I’d like to share them here. This post was also inspired by a blogging idol of mine, Grace!

It’s ok to never stop grieving. Pain has no expiry date.

Coffee isn’t nice. I’m sorry. Have a cup of tea.
I recommend Twinings English Breakfast.

The people who care will learn to pronounce your name.
And it isn’t the end of the world if it’s pronounced incorrectly in public (my school years.)(Ang-ha-rud)

Sometimes buying presents for other people is better than receiving them.

Online friendships are 100% valid.
Don’t let anybody tell you otherwise.

It’s okay to like dogs (or any animals) more than humans.

Lay on a forest floor, close your eyes and listen at least once in your life.

It’s ok to cry. Since birth, it’s a sign that you’re alive.
And I read it’s good for the skin.

Find your home within the pages of books.
But don’t judge people who don’t read for pleasure. Everybody has their thing.

Your voice will always be your loudest weapon.
And one voice can make all the difference.

Remember you’ll be ok. Even at your darkest times.
You’ve survived them all up until now and you can again.

Your heart will always heal. It’s stronger than you think.

People will walk out of your life. But it’s ok.
Focus on the people that choose to stay. Or the people who wanted to stay but couldn’t.

It’s ok to be scared.
Whether it’s jumping out of a plane or going to the shops on your own. Your fear is a part of you and you are in control of it.

TREAT YO’ SELF.

Always keep nice letters and cards and notes.
Try and remember to read them when you’re sad.

Keep a compliment journal.
I recently read about it. Every time somebody compliments you, write it down and who said it and when it was and then go back and relive!

Don’t talk over people.

There’s nothing wrong with being very active on social media.
Don’t listen to the older generations that say differently. Social media can save lives.

Always support other women.

Remember to keep going. Remember to smile.
You – your mind and your body – can survive so much. It’s ok to fall down but always get back up, even with tears streaming down your face. You’re a badass. 

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So here’s to another year!
Lots of Love,
Angharad @