Lessons we learn as young adults

We reach a certain age that we begin to understand the importance of our parents’ sermons, words of wisdom, advices and “pangaral”. I can still recall how I replied to my mom saying that this will not necessarily apply to me because we live in a different era now, compared to your time; and our world is now more progressed and “techie” as we commonly describe it. Mom, if you’re reading this, thank you for your advices, I can really see it now. The times might have changed, but how humans interact still remains; and, with the new technologies, it can even make life a little more complicated than before. Allow me to share to you a list of lessons that humans learn as they reach their adult lives.

1. Less is more.

I think everyone agrees that when we were kids, our parents or specifically our Moms would know who our real friends are and who our “good weather” types of friends are. The accuracy sometimes is pretty amazing, how she would always know who will stick by you in the end.

As adults, this scenario also occurs. We will always have those people who will be there at first then won’t really be visible when we eventually have real life problems. We begin to appreciate the true value of those who actually stay. Not because they want or need something from you but because they have every intention to. If you already have those people who are like that, cherish them, because those are like unique, priceless gems that can never be sold nor replaced. In case you haven’t found them yet, that’s okay; don’t settle for less that you truly deserve. You are so much worth than what they treat you.

In this time, learn to be strong and independent enough to handle things on your own, because you will need that strength in the long run.

2. Money is important, but family and health are important as well.

Sometimes we forget that we work to make a living, not the other way around. As we grow older, we also don’t realize that our love ones get older too. If it is possible, always set a time to spend quality time with your family. To those who have kids, don’t miss important milestones in your children’s life because you’re too busy at work. Life is a balancing act. I know this is difficult, but I know everyone can make a compromise depending on the situation.

It has been always Filipino culture to put family first, because they are the main reason why we work anyway.

3. Don’t let people get to you.

We are entitled to make our decisions and decide on what we stand for or what we believe in. It’s our right to fight for our principles and our moral compass. And, it’s okay that everyone doesn’t have the same idea on what we believe in. The best way to handle these discussions is to add the word RESPECT. Not everyone practice it, but, keeping it cool when people say bad things sets you apart from them. It makes you grow more as a person because you chose to keep your composure when it’s already your peak point and it’s easier to just lash out.

This also includes people who have something to say in all occasions. They might even insult not just you and your principles.

But, it really doesn’t matter what they think, as long as you’re not doing anything wrong, or specifically doing anything that can hurt anyone, you’re safe.

Congratulations. You just learned on how to filter positive and useful conversations to ridiculous and pessimistic ones that are not going to help anyone.

4. Always be humble in victory and magnanimous in defeat.

In life, we will have our ups and downs. It’s how we react on these moments that truly describe what we are as a person. Everyone has their own time to shine and sometimes there are bad lucks. We must be able to remain humble when we have gained success in our paths. Never let this go into our heads.

Keeping your feet on the ground allows you to easily get back up when you suddenly fall down.

When you also get into moments that are not what you expected, treat it as a stepping stone in proceeding to your final goal. Don’t be discouraged and don’t be jealous or envious on what others achieve. You should become a better you. Compete with yourself not with others to be happy in all our successes or failures.

5. It is okay to be lost.

There is no clear road on what to take. Sometimes we get to a point when we have no idea what we will do in the future. It is very confusing at times to make plans for the future in which you have no concrete notion of what will you be doing. We begin to question everything. Is this okay? Is this what I should be doing? When will I be really happy? Can I make a living out of what I do? People say that following your heart is the answer. But seriously, when you have bills, responsibilities and no opportunities to follow your passion, it is difficult to decide whether going for something that can risk your stability or taking a chance for yourself to be really happy. Knowing this topic very well, my tip is to continue searching for your path but don’t completely risk something (job, love life, etc.). Don’t give up on your dreams.

Always know that life is never a race. It is a continuous journey in finding your true calling. Don’t be quick to make a life changing decision; but, don’t also let a good opportunity pass.

I agree that we should follow our hearts. However, I still believe that the hypothalamus is responsible for feelings, and this body part is located at our brains.

6. Have Faith and don’t lose hope.

In anything that we do, we should always have faith in God. The 3 foundations of having a good life are “Faith, Hope and Love”. Whatever we may encounter in our lives, remember that we are not alone. Someone is watching over us and has a plan for you.

This may not come easy nor this may not be obvious but it is constantly there. Don’t lose hope on yourself and on your dreams. Problems may come but know that you are not given challenges that you are not strong enough to handle.

Lastly, love. Take a step and learn how to love. Love makes the world better if it’s the right one. Love can move mountains. Love can shape a future. Continue to pray. Continue doing the right things. Continue to become better each day, you can definitely do it ❤

XOXO,

Frances ❤