Earlier this week, I was reflecting on my college experience and started thinking about the things I wish I would’ve known then. Here’s a list of 10 things I wish I known.

1. Do what makes you happy

Life is too short to do something that you don’t enjoy. It’s great to try new things and it’s okay to never want to do something again.

2. It’s okay to say no.

You don’t have to go to that party or take that job you don’t think it’s a good fit.

3. It’s okay to work in other fields but don’t stop drawing and doing what you love

I think just about everyone goes through this. You have bills to pay, I get it! While you are working the job that pays the bills, don’t stop doing what you enjoy.

4. Cherish your good friends and remove toxic people from your life.

I wish I had figured this one out sooner. If someone is always negative or makes you feel bad about yourself or your situation, don’t be friends with them! When you make a friend, make an effort to spend time with that friend and let them know you appreciate their friendship!

5. Keep in touch with your friends.

This one goes with the previous point. You won’t stay friends if you don’t put in any effort to see them. Friendships take work, especially if you don’t live close by.

6. Stop worrying about what people think about you and your work.

They are most likely too busy worrying about themselves to care. I think most people are too hard on themselves and think that people won’t like their work or they don’t like you. While not everyone is going to love you or what you do, most people will have a better response than you are expecting.

7. Start exercising consistently.

I know you have a crazy schedule and you don’t think you have enough time but it’s important to take care of your health. Developing healthy habits is always a good idea.

8. It’s okay to have lazy days once in a while.

Everyone needs a break, don’t beat yourself up about it. It’s impossible for anyone to be productive all the time.

9. You’re going to mess up, and that’s okay.

Learn from your mistakes, don’t beat yourself up over every mistake. Everyone makes mistakes. It’s what you do after your mistakes that counts.

10. Just be you

At the end of the day, all you can do is be yourself. Don’t let anyone tell you that you should change yourself to fit their needs.