1. You don’t need a 95 average to be considered a good student
In middle school, I had a 98 average. Once I got to high school, grading got real, math got harder, deadlines crept up and life got busier. I learned to do my best, a standard that varies among students. I stopped putting so much pressure on myself and happiness followed.
2. Friend groups are overrated
I spent a lot of time thinking that you get one friend group and those are your friends. I learned that you need to put yourself out there! Every friendship is different; you have to be open to different kinds of relationships and cherish different bonds.
3. People will mature over time
Drama passes. Freshman year I thought I knew who my “enemies” were. I realized that once everyone grows up there’s less time for catty drama and the concept of “enemies.” People grow into themselves. Don’t write someone off because they wronged you freshman year!
4. Don’t waste your time chasing boys
A big lesson is that you cannot force a boy to like you. How many times do you have to get a no signal to swallow your pride and move on? There are way too many boys to get hung up on one!
5. FOMO isn’t real
Every Snapchat story ignites the FOMO flame. I rarely went out, but when I did, it was a good time. When you’re with good people, it doesn’t make a difference if you’re with them every night or once a year. Good times are good times. FOMO hurts in the moment but overall is so temporary. There’s always another night out.
6. Social media is abstract
My freshman year social media blew up; there was so much pressure to make your life look artsy and fun. I learned the art of image-crafting. The truth lies far beyond what makes your snap story.
7. Prioritize your passions
I never went out because I was committed to my equestrian team, and I struggled with this sacrifice for awhile. I realized that it made me who I am, and I am so grateful for the experience.
8. Put your family first
It's cliche but true. My social life had its ups and downs, and at the end of every day, I had my family to anchor me to reality. Family is always there for you, and they love you no matter what.
9. The hardest lesson: Don’t let other people be responsible for your happiness
Texts from a cute boy could make my day. This doesn’t sound dangerous until he knowingly “forgets” to text you on your birthday and heartbroken, you waste your wish on “I hope he texts me!!” I learned not to let other people hold responsibility for my happiness -- but wasted a birthday being sad about a boy.
10. The best is yet to come!
Seventeen years in, I feel like I’ve experienced so much, but the truth is everything good lies ahead! College, relationships, career, marriage, kids: the best parts of life are waiting!
