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By: Kirsten Evans
After almost 2.5 years at UT and 21 years of life, I have learned many different lessons, a lot of which through messing up and making mistakes. I’m still continuing to grow and learn every single day, but these are 21 things that I would tell my freshman year self who was excitedly and anxiously awaiting the start of her fall semester!
1. God has a plan that is much greater than any plan you could imagine for yourself.
You can try to micromanage every aspect of your life until you are blue in the face, but it’s so much easier and better to let go of control and trust in God’s plan.
2. Find your identity in God.
Centering yourself on anything other than God will never be fulfilling. True fulfillment and peace is found in Him.
3. Do something simply for enjoyment every single day.
It’s so important to have a small bit of fun at least once every day. Bake some muffins or call your mom!
4. Quality of friends is way more important than quantity!
It’s way better to have 2-5 genuine, close friends that you know will always have your back rather than have 20 + friends who you are unsure if you can really trust or confide in.
5. Be confident in what you believe in and stick to it.
Confidence is one of the most attractive qualities. Don’t doubt yourself, you’re rocking it!
6. Take time to go outside and be in the sunshine every day.
Sunshine is truly so healing - it is the best therapy. Make sure to find even just 10 minutes to be in nature and simply just exist every single day.
7. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables - your body will thank you.
Eating the rainbow will make you feel so much better all around. You’ll sleep better, have a better mood, have more energy, etc.
8. Find ways to workout/be active that are fun for you.
Working out should be fun and be something you look forward to! Try a new workout class with some friends and see if you like it, or go for a run around a pretty trail.
9. Surround yourself with genuine people that build you up.
There’s no reason to put energy into friendships that are bringing you down. Find authentic people that naturally lift you up on a daily basis.
10. Don’t stress too much about the future; it’ll work out just as it should.
Worrying about what the future holds is a waste of time and energy. Everything will fall into place just as it should. Focus on what you can do in the here and now instead!
11. Family is so so so important.
Friendships are so important, but family always has your back and always will want the best for you. Remember to appreciate them and to never take them for granted.
12. Take time to call friends you don’t get to see often.
Keep up with your childhood friends and friends that go to different schools. A 15 minute phone call every couple of weeks is a great way to do this!
13. Dream big and don’t doubt yourself or your capabilities.
No dreams are dumb or weird! Be kind to yourself - your number one critic is yourself.
14. Get good sleep! Aim for 8 hours every night.
Sleep affects everything, literally everything. Good sleep will provide you with enough energy and motivation to conquer your day with a smile on your face!
15. Pursue things you enjoy - happiness is key!
Life simply is too short to feel pressured to pursue things that you don’t enjoy or feel fulfilled in. Pursue those things that fill your bucket and make you feel inspired and excited.
16. Long walks outside are the best therapy.
Happy? Sad? Nervous? Angry? Go for a walk - it will cure you.
17. Know your worth.
Value yourself and all the talents and gifts you have to offer the world! Don’t let anyone or anything make you think any differently.
18. Comparison truly is the thief of joy.
The world would be so boring if we were all the same. Appreciate who you are and what you have to give. Don’t waste your time wishing to be more like someone else or wishing to have what others have.
19. Don’t sacrifice your peace for anyone.
No relationship is worth giving up your peace. It’s best to move on from relationships that feel like a constant emotional rollercoaster, because they aren’t healthy and leave you feeling drained and down.
20. Mental health is just as important as physical health.
Prioritize and take care of your mental health every day! It’s so important and is so connected with your physical health.
21. Find joy in the little things throughout your day.
Appreciating and recognizing the little things that bring you joy on a daily basis will make you an overall happier person. Find joy in having a quick laugh with a friend or listening to your favorite song on the radio!
About The Author:
Kirsten Evans '25
Finance
Entrepreneurial LeadHERship Fall 2023 Student
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