Life is an adventure that can be complicated to explain. Especially when we go through it living by someone else's rules. This type of living leads us to have many regrets and shoulda, woulda, coulda's as we get older. No one deserves to go through life that way. Let's stop the cycle.

1. Seek A Life Partner, Not Another Parent

Love is a beautiful thing. Especially when it is shared with the right person. Try not to be so desperate to be in love that you settle for someone you aren't even in love with. A life partner will give you guidance not control your every move.

2. Try Everything At Least Once

We all know that there are a million ways that we can die out here. Don't let that deter you from trying what you really want to do. Go ahead. Jump out of that plane, see the world, or buy that pet tiger. Okay, maybe not the last one. Try whatever your heart desires. We only live once.

3. Celebrate Even Your Small Victories

Big victories tend to get all of the airplay. Leaving the small ones to get pushed to the side. Even if no one else cares that you've finally finished that book, finally learned to whistle, or made a stranger smile, make sure to celebrate it all.

4. Love Yourself First

Make yourself the first recipient of your love. Most of us go through life showing others the love that we deserve. You can't truly love another without succeeding at loving you.

5. Don't Dismiss Everyone

I know sometimes it may be easier to push others away. Even if a person has caused you pain, not everyone deserves to be dismissed. Some deserve a little forgiving and understanding. You may find out that they never really meant to harm you in any way. Have you ever mistakenly hurt someone? How would you want them to do you?

6. Love What You Do

Life is too short to be stuck in a dead-end job that you dread going to in the morning. It doesn't matter if you finally get that degree that made your parents proud or you have seniority at your job. Make sure to have a career in something you love not just something that pays the bills.

7. Prioritize Your Priorities

I know your everyday life can be hectic. You have a deadline to meet, chores to be done, the latest fashion trend to follow, or last night's picture to upload. These things may be important to you right now. But later you will realize what really matters like the quality time with your children, the beauty of nature, sharing a good laugh, and spending time with those who truly love you. Don't miss out.

8. Speak The Truth, Even If It's Brutal

A lot of people are guilty of wearing their hearts on their sleeves. That leads them to become sensitive about everything. Don't let that stop you from speaking your truth. It's what most need to hear. Not every statement deserves to be sugar-coated. If you feel that there is something that needs to be said, say it. And if someone gets offended, that's their problem.