Yesterday, I turned 23. You know what they say," nobody likes you when you're 23." Kidding...I hope. A lot of change has happened while I was 22, some good, some not so great. Life is always in motion and there is no stopping it. So in honor of my 23rd trip around the sun, here are 23 things I've learned.

1. You're not always going to please everybody. There's a quote I love by Dita Von Teese, " You could be the ripest, juiciest peach in the world, and there's still going to be somebody who hates peaches."
2. Find your style, and own it. Who cares if you dress only black, white, stripes, and leopard print...just do you!
3. Always have a backup plan. This can be for dinner or your life plan. Life doesn't always go smoothly, be prepared and ready to adjust.
4. Everything happens for a reason. Didn't get that internship? Maybe something even more incredible is just around the bend!
5. Always write thank you cards.
6. Get enough sleep each night, only you know how your body functions.
7. If you're meeting someone important make sure your nails look ok and go in for a firm handshake. No one likes a dead, floppy fish handshake.
8. Let love in
9. You can't do it all or have it all, but you still have got to try.
10. Never be ashamed of what you love
11. Do what makes you happy
12. Enjoy every meal you eat. While I've LOVED to eat for a very long time, but my post jaw surgery diet of all liquids definitely made me appreciate a good meal even more!
13. It's ok to be selfish. Self-care is so important to your mental and physical wellbeing
14. Work hard, play hard.
15. Budget, budget, budget. Don't overspend on unnecessary things. Think about bringing tea to work instead of stopping at Dunkin or Starbs. My favourite money saving tip? Take 10% of your paycheck and put that right into a savings account.
16. Be present
17. Don't bottle up your emotions. It doesn't help in the long run.
18. Appreciate traditions and keep them alive.
19. Be grateful for family and friends.
20. If you're going through hell, keep going.
21. Wash your face and take off your makeup at night.
22. Do your readings and homework. Yes it may seem like a lot but in the long run it is only going to help you succeed and learn more. Make sure you're making the most out of your degree.
23.  Travel as much as you can, while you can.