Twenty Two Things I Learned Being 22

I don't know about you, but I'm feeling twenty threeeee!

It doesn't quite have the same ring to it, does it? 

Tomorrow I turn 23. Firstly, when did I get so old? And secondly, at what point do I stop winging it and actually know what I'm doing? Because honestly, I don't have a clue. 

If you're new here, welcome to the yearly tradition on my blog where I tell you about all the things I've learned as a 22-year-old; I look forward to writing these posts every year. Taylor Swift gave me some very high expectations about being twenty two and it didn't disappoint. It's been one to remember; I travelled to new places, met new friends, reconnected with others, and as always, picked up a few pearls of wisdom along the way. 

So without further ado, here are twenty two things I learned being twenty twoooo! 

1. MacBooks are a Game Changer 

After wanting one for years, twenty two finally saw me treat myself to a MacBook Air and oh my goodness, why didn't I get one of these sooner!? I can finally be that girl who goes into Starbucks and taps away on her laptop with a caramel macchiato by her side!

2. Stop Putting In Effort Where Effort Isn't Received 

I've learned this in many ways but particularly when it comes to relationships. Time and time again, I find myself overcompensating for someone else's lack of effort. I continue to fight for something when there's nothing to fight for and put in all the effort whilst getting nothing back. Any kind of healthy relationship doesn't work that way; if they want to see you then they'll make the effort to see you, it's a two way thing. 

3. Actions Speak Louder Than Words 

In every instance. 

It's pretty self explanatory but I've learned that people say things without meaning them. From now on, until people's actions follow their words, I won't be dwelling on things too much. 

4. I really enjoy going to the Races 

In my first few weeks of being 22, I went to my first ever Horse Racing Event at Haydock. We had an evening of racing, betting and also saw Nile Rodgers and Chic. I absolutely loved it, even though I didn't have a clue what was going on or how to place a bet. My advice? Choose the one with the coolest name or the prettiest uniform. 

5. My Energy is so Important

This past year, I've started to practice the Law of Attraction and I've manifested some really cool things into my life. It's made me more aware of how important my energy is; I attract what I am. Slowly, I'm learning to rid myself of negative energies and focus on the positives. It's definitely given me a more optimistic outlook. 

6. People will Dislike the Good Things about You

You're not going to be everyone's cup of tea and that's okay, just never let anyone dull your sparkle. 

7. I have Toxic Traits too

And that's okay, as long as I'm aware of them and I can work on it. We're not all perfect (unless you're Taron Egerton).

8. It's Not You Job To Fix Him

Or anyone, for that matter. 

I somehow seem to find myself attracting the same kind of person and I feel like I've failed if I've not been able to help someone or fix their problems. I'm not saying this is the case for everyone, but I've realised that some people just don't want to be fixed and there's only so much I can do. 

9. Listen to your Parents Advice 

As much as they can be annoying and sometimes they just don't get where you're coming from, your parents are the only people who truly want the best for you. Plus, they really do give the best advice. I'm lucky to be surrounded by the most amazing people helping, supporting and guiding me every day.

10. I love Amsterdam 

Twenty Two saw me accomplish one of my life goals and take a trip to Amsterdam. I absolutely fell in love with the city; from the history, to the canals, to the museums, to the bars, to the people. I'm already desperate to go back! 

11. I Can't Control A Pedal Boat

Whilst in Amsterdam, Cyde and I thought it would be a good idea to rent a pedal boat and see the beauty of the city from the water. I'd never been on pedal boat before and it was soon established that I can't control one. I don't know what confirmed it more; taking us the wrong way up a one-way canal or crashing us into another passenger boat. 

12. It's a Bad Time not a Bad Life

As I'm writing this, life is a bit strange. I know a lot of us are feeling down right now but things will improve. Remember what I was saying about the Law of Attraction? Your mindset is everything. Don't let one bad day determine how you spend the rest, there's always brighter days ahead. 

13. Double Beds are the Future

At the grand old age of 22, I finally invested in a double bed and it is potentially one of the best adult decisions I have ever made. 

14. Let Other Peoples Talents Inspire You

Don't feel threatened. Just because you admire someone else's ability to do something doesn't take away from the fact that you have talents too! Have a bit more self-belief! 

15. It's Important to have Boundaries 

And stick to them. 

I promise people will respect you more when you put boundaries in place, whether that be in relationships, friendships or at work. If they don't respect you then thank u, next. 

16. Learning to Drive is Actually Quite Fun

Okay, so I haven't passed my driving test yet (thanks corona) but I've realised there's no need to be scared of learning to drive. I'm missing my weekly lessons and chats with my instructor and hopefully this time next year, I'll be driving round in my own little car. 

17. I Hate People who don't Indicate

They're up there with some of the worst people in the world. Just let me get my crystal ball out and work out which way you're going, dickhead. 

18. Stop Chasing Other People's Dreams For Them 

I'm a very supportive person and I'll do anything I can to help people achieve their goals; whether that's a pep talk or helping them out in some way. However, I've realised that sometimes I've got to be a little bit selfish and put myself and my own goals first and that's totally okay. 

19. The Everyman Cinema is Next Level

Whoever decided to combine comfy sofas and a cinema deserves an award. It's an absolute game changer, the Everyman is the best cinema experience you will ever have. 

20. Try To Live with No Regrets

Life is planned and everything happens for a reason, but if you do regret something then it's better to regret something you did than something you didn't do. 

21. The 1975 are just Amazing 

They're one of my favourite bands to see live and I just think they're great. Also, if you haven't listened to If You're Too Shy (Let Me Know) yet, then what have you been doing? It'll put you in the best mood, I promise. 

22. Being Twenty Two isn't really like the Taylor Swift song

But make sure you listen to it everyday in your twenty second year! 

I can't wait to celebrate tomorrow and I'm going to make my twenty third year an amazing one.
Here's to turning 23 - in lockdown!

Lots of Love,
Meg x