I turned 27 last month, and while I always thought 27 was OLD., I feel as young as ever. In 27 years I have experienced A LOT. Love, loss, happiness, sadness, and everything in between. While I have a lot to learn still, here are 12 things I’ve learned by 27.

1. Stop worrying what other people think.

Truth is, nobody cares what you’re doing as much as you think. The people that like you, like you. And the people that don’t, never will. Stop worrying what others think, because frankly, they don’t matter.

2. You can’t control anyone but yourself.

When I was younger I spent so much time worrying about other people and situations. It was stressful and pointless. People will do what they want regardless. You can lend advice, but when it comes down to it, you are the only one you are in control of.

3. You will lose people you love.

This one is huge. At 27, I have suffered major loss. Whether it is expected or completely unexpected, it always hurts. Cherish the people around you because you will wish you had when they’re gone.

4. He’s not worth it.

Point blank. If he stresses you out, he’s not worth it. If he makes you cry more than you smile, he’s not worth it. If you’re constantly wondering where you stand with him, he’s not worth it.

5. People are right when they say, “things will work out.”

Sometimes life is hard and you feel like you can’t win. There are times we get stuck and feel like things will never “get better.” When I was at this place, people would tell me “things will fall into place, don’t worry.” As skeptical as I was then, things always do work out the way they’re supposed to.

6. It’s never as bad as you think.

Life sucks sometimes. It really does. And while it sucks, it will always get better. You’re alive, and that in itself is a gift.

7. And it’s never as good as you think.

We live in a media obsessed world where we are constantly comparing ourselves to others. Sure, that girl on social media may look like she lives the most amazing life, but truth is she probably doesn’t. We idealize people and things, and most of the time it’s all an illusion.

8. You will figure out your life.

22,25,27. No matter what age you are, all of us struggle at some point with where we are in life. Did I once think I would be married by 27? Sure. Am I happy that I’m not? 100 percent. I am completely happy with where I’m at in life, and will continue to “figure it out.”

9. Friends come and go.

This one is huge. In our 20’s, we lose a lot of friends. We become too busy, and often times some friendships suffer. We find ourselves talking to certain friends less, and growing apart from others. It’s always hard when you realize a friendship no longer fulfills you, but sometimes its necessary to move on.

10. Don’t stress about people who don’t stress about you.

Don’t waste your energy. When people don’t treat you how you feel you should be treated, don’t stress about it. Why stress over someone who clearly doesn’t have time for you or the maturity to realize they are not treating you like a decent human being? Let it go.

11. Sometimes not caring is key.

At the end of the day focus on yourself. People may hurt your feelings, but not caring is the best feeling. If you are confident in yourself, the ignorance of others no longer has to bother you.

12. Always put yourself first.

Always. It’s not selfish. You come first before anyone else. Don’t put anyone’s needs above your own. Always remember that.

I still have a lot to learn. Everyday brings new challenges, and I’m still trying to figure them out. I have been through a lot in 27 years and am proud of the person I have become. I hope to learn a lot more in the next 27 years.