But they don't really.
I realise that today is probably a sad day for some people; people who worked really damn hard throughout the year, who studied and studied and studied, who made sacrifices, who set goals and tried their absolute best- and maybe didn't quite get there. In fact, that was me. I gave it my all and yet was still a little less than pleased with my score. But only a little. I'm still able to get into my course and do what I've wanted to do all year, and for the moment, that's all that matters.
But some people mightn't have been so lucky. Maybe some people missed out by a lot, or even a few marks. And now they probably feel miserable.
And that's why I'm writing you lovelies a post. This is for everyone who might have cried this morning, everyone who checked their results then rolled over in bed and wished they could disappear, everyone who feels disappointed, everyone who feels worthless, everyone who feels let down and ashamed.
It really is just a number. It's just a number to get you to the next phase of your life, and hey- if it wasn't the right number, then there sure as hell are other ways to get where you want to be. And while you figure out how you might go about getting there, here are 101 things that are far more important than your final score. They always have been, and they always will be. Don't let a little number dictate the rest of your life. It's all yours. Seize it, and run with it.
- Waking up to a new day
- Having a roof over your head
- Hot baths
- Having food to eat and clean water to drink
- Having a family to love and support you
- Having friends to share your life with
- Scented candles
- Being well and in good health
- Being able to receive an education
- Being able to complete that education, and graduate
- Good music
- Being able to love and be loved
- Having the world as your oyster, and the freedom to travel it
- Being blessed with endless opportunities and possibilities
- Making memories
- Being able to enjoy the summer
- Being able to meet new people, make new friends and form new relationships
- Being able to work and earn money
- Finding inspiration
- Having the freedom and independence to set goals
- Being able to give back to the world
- Finding your passion
- Really soft pillows
- Finding cool stuff on sale
- Getting handwritten letters
- Laughing until you cry/snort/pee (I usually do all three)
- Giving and receiving hugs
- Realising who you want to be
- Falling in love
- Making the most of each of your days
- Cuddling your pets (if you don't have one, you're welcome to cuddle my rabbit Gizmo)
- Having options and choices
- Getting up in time to watch the sunrise
- Being able to set yourself challenges
- Being able to inspire people
- Being thankful
- Sleeping in fresh bed linen
- Chocolate
- Feeding your soul
- Holding hands
- Being someones role model
- Finding what makes you happy
- Allowing yourself to dance
- Freshly painted toenails
- Helping people
- Pistachio flavoured gelato
- Having the right to vote, and speak your mind
- Having a plan B
- Knowing that Christmas is only nine days away
- Being able to spend Christmas (and other important occasions) with loved ones
- Making people smile
- Being able to change someones life
- Donating to charity
- Finding your gift
- Finding someone who makes you happy
- The promise of a new year
- Having a mind of your own, and the ability to create your own views and values
- Finding something that adds meaning to your life
- Having integrity
- Making a difference
- Finding hope
- Giving hope
- Being able to add value to someones life
- Banana bread (my mum just made some and it is deeeeeeevine)
- Being a good friend
- Watching The Simpsons
- Opening your mind
- Finishing a good book
- Finding sunglasses that actually suit your face
- Receiving help from a stranger
- Giving compliments
- Receiving compliments
- Cosy and warm beds
- Exploring the world
- Making progress
- Finding motivation
- Baking choc chip cookies
- Accidentally doing a killer job on your hair/make up/outfit
- Connecting with people
- Morning jogs
- Being able to let go of your past
- Keeping promises
- Finding faith
- Saving a life
- Humility
- The smell of tinsel
- The beach
- Lying in the sun
- Finding positivity
- Road trips
- Watching fireworks
- Collecting sea shells
- Baking cupcakes (and eating them too)
- Helping someone find their passion
- Growth
- Overcoming your fears
- Seeing the bigger picture
- Making people laugh
- Second chances
- Choosing to be happy
- Being alive
If you can tick off at least five of those, I guarantee you're gonna be okay- regardless of your score.
Much love,
X