26 things I've learned in 26 years of life

Two days ago, I turned 26.

It's a bit weird to type that because, for the first 88% of my life, I didn't think that I wouldn't make it to 25.

I've seen some shit, caused some shit, been caught in some shit, and freed myself from some shit.

Despite thinking I wouldn't make it, I now look back on those times with gratitude.

I couldn't be the person that I am today without them.

I've learned more than I could hope for, and I'm always trying to learn more.

Yes, I'm going to be cliche and make one of these - deal with it.

That being said, here are 26 things I've learned in my 26 years on Earth:

1. You are responsible for your reactions to people's words and actions.

2. Having a hard conversation is easier than dealing with the emotions of putting it off.

3. Happiness is a choice.

4. Building trust with yourself is as simple as doing the things you said you would do.

5. Masculinity isn't inherently toxic - "toxic males" are just assholes.

6. The things that make you feel the most resistant are usually the things you need to do the most.

7. Garbage in, garbage out. Gold in, gold out.

8. Question everything. Tear things down. Make up your own opinions and ideas.

9. Life is happening for you, not against you.

10. Action > inaction every single time.

11. Light fires under your ass when you really need to get things done.

12. Say all the kind things that come to your mind.

13. It's better to live with a hurting heart than a closed one.

14. Plan on plans not going to plan.

15. Schedule boredom into your day. Go for a walk or stare at a wall for 30 minutes.

16. Sleep, diet, exercise, and meditation can fix any problem you have.

17. Learn how to zoom out. Nothing is "the end," it's all a continuum.

18. Acting on emotions will only get you in trouble.

19. Always entertain curiosity.

20. You can't pour from an empty cup (this isn't about liquids).

21. Everything is just how you perceive it to be - you create your own reality.

22. You can't put off relationships or your health.

23. Don't listen to advice from people who don't have the life you want.

24. The Art of Surrender - link to my new ebook.

25. Your life's purpose will evolve as you do.

26. The world will not heal if you're not also healing.