It’s been three full days since I’ve returned home from my sophomore year of college. Thus far, I have finished the first book I’ve read for pleasure in months (I could talk about The Seven Lives of Evelyn Hugo FOREVER), binged a short show on Netflix called Heartstopper (I know, I know, it took me long enough :)), and hung out with my dog religiously. Last week’s finals are out of sight, out of mind. Surreal. This past spring was one of the hardest semesters of my college career so far and I am incredibly grateful to be back with my family (and my dog) to recover. As my dedicated readers know by now, I like to give updates on my life every now and then, intermingled with things I’ve learned that I would like to share with others and preserve for myself to look back upon. So, that’s what this post will be before my regular posting resumes!

Sophomore Year Lessons:

1. Sometimes you’ll fail. Sometimes you’ll fail spectacularly even when you’ve poured everything you have into a task, responsibility, hobby, passion. This is okay. Give yourself grace. You’re not superhuman, you’re not perfect. Hard work does not equal 100% success. And chances are—there was perhaps a hidden message in that failure.
2. Relationships are tricky. Communication is key. But when someone repeatedly crosses a boundary, when another person decides to treat you like your feelings don’t matter, move on from the situation. It’s not worth your time and energy.
3. Learn your worth before someone else decides it for you.
4. Sometimes apologies don’t fix things. But, time does heal.
5. Listen to a happy song when you’re feeling down. Sure, Taylor Swift is GREAT to vibe with (looking at you, Midnights album), but a little upbeat optimism never hurt anyone.
6. Don’t allow the negative experiences (with those you thought you could trust) to create a wall of distance between you and your friends and family (those who really love and support you for being yourself).
7. YOU CAN’T DO LIFE ALONE.
8. A good cup of tea can indeed be a solution.
9. You are stronger than you give yourself credit for.
10. BONUS: love who you are. Love who you’re becoming.

I feel as though I’ve learned more about myself this year than ever before. I don’t know what this means about my friendships and my family relationships. But I’m willing to navigate this world—and I hope you are too, dear reader. See you later this month as I regale you with tales about recent bookstore and library trips, summer reads, writings, and more!

Sincerely,

Sophia