Being a twenty-something is like you're in this stage of reluctant adulthood, but being a teenager feels like it was yesterday. And for some of us, maybe it was. If I could talk to the teenage version of myself, here's what I'd tell her (and just about every other teenager out there):
- The mirror lies.
- You're your own worst critic.
- Heels always seem like a good idea, until they feel like a bad one.
- Don't ever apologize for being ambitious.
- You're so much more than the series of numbers on a scale.
- Your heart will get broken -- but it will heal, too.
- Don't just love your mom, befriend her. She'll swear she's just your parent and not your friend, but you both know the unspoken truth.
- In the words of my 11th grade Spanish teacher, "Pretty girls do pretty things." Make that your motto.
- Try and do one random act of kindness everyday. You'll benefit yourself and your community.
- You'll always be well-dressed if you're wearing a smile.
- Being smart, kind and honest trumps "sexy," "hot" and "pretty" any day.
- Always value people for their heart.
- You're appreciated.
- Burn all your favorite Nickelodeon and Disney shows now, because they won't be on Netflix in 5 years.
- Advocate for something that means a lot to you.
- You are more beautiful than you realize...honestly.
- Don't let the ignorant and superficial opinions of others destroy your self-confidence. When in doubt, see number 16.
- You're never too old to be "daddy's little girl."
- Cherish the children around you; kids provide so much hope and love in our lives.
- Learn the art of composure.
- Stand up for what's right.
- You don't have to be religious, but be spiritual. Discover what you believe in.
- You'll never be younger than you are today. Comprehend the magnitude of that and enjoy every moment.
- Stop wishing away time so things you want to happen will "hurry up." There will be a time, sooner than you know, when you'll want to set the clock back.
- "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder." Don't forget to behold their character when deeming someone attractive.
- Dance! (Even if you think you can't).
- "Things have a way of working out."
- Treat your body well! Your current self will look and feel better, and your future self will thank you.
- "Everything happens for a reason." Really.
- Say "I love you" whenever you can. It never gets old.
- Treat yourself.
- ...But save money! Save up for big things and put away money for a rainy day.
- You can't put a price on happiness.
- "A smooth ship never made a skilled sailor."
- Keep marching to the beat of your own drum.
- Your bullies will be eating their words in a few years. It's okay to prove people wrong...especially when they doubt and/or ridicule you.
- Volunteer.
- Don't be afraid to branch out and make new friends.
- Blood is thicker than water.
- If you have siblings, make sure they know you love them endlessly.
- Follow your mom's advice: "Don't leave the house looking like a slob." If you do, you'll run into everyone you know.
- Confidence not only attracts people, but opportunities and situations as well. Keep working at it.
- Make a conscious effort to love yourself.
- Go with your gut. It rarely fails.
- Follow your heart, because you may just be following your happiness, too.
- It's okay, eat another slice of pizza.
- Own your own body and remember that you make the rules. This goes for all things emotionally, physically and romantically. Your body, your rules.
- Enjoy snow days while you have them.
- You're never too old to watch cartoons.
- You're here for a reason, and you're loved, too.
- Whenever you hit a glass ceiling -- smash it. Believe me, you can do it.
- No dream is unattainable.
What would YOU tell your teenage self?
This blog post originally appeared on The Miss Information.