Becoming a teenager is a hard thing to do. You're growing up and maturing into an improved version of yourself, but you're leaving behind all of the fun, careless activities of your childhood. Looking back, I definitely could've handled a lot of things differently. Maybe 8th grade would've been a lot easier if someone could've handed me a list with a couple of these lessons on it. Here are the 13 things I wish I could tell my 13-year-old self.

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1. Enjoy the obsessive 1D/Taylor Swift/Justin Bieber phases while they last.

You'll have so much fun, meet a ton of equally-obsessed friends, and have a lot of crazy hilarious memories to look back on. Cherish the concerts and new CD debuts, and learn all the lyrics...you'll be glad you did.

2. Start good study habits now.

Sorry to say it only gets harder from here. School might seem awful but it's pretty important. Working hard in high school can help you figure out what works best for you in terms of studying and school work for college. Good study habits make for good grades, and a high GPA can help you get into your choice of colleges later on.

3. Puberty is temporary.

Your body is changing and developing, and it's nothing to worry about. Your hormones might be out of whack for a while and you might get some extra pimples, but I promise you'll grow out of that stage and you'll grow up to be the "beautiful young woman" your parents always promise you'll turn out to be someday.

4. Boys are gross and stupid (most of the time).

Okay, okay, boys aren't all that bad. But if he's being mean to you and not treating you like you deserve to be treated, tell that boy to shut up and go have fun with your girl friends. Simple.

5. Go outside.

There is so much to do and see. You can't embark on an adventure from the comfort of your living room or with your face in your phone screen. Go out and experience life, make memories, and enjoy the fresh air.

6. Do your own thing, don’t worry about what’s “popular”

Your body is your own, it's not meant to look like someone else's. Same thing goes for your hair, makeup, or clothes. Find your style and what works for you and rock it. And don't be afraid to try new things, even if your friends haven't done it first. Take a chance and be brave, step out of your comfort zone, and don't let negative thoughts take over your mind.

7. Spend time with your parents, don’t ignore them.

I get it, being a teenager is stressful and you're learning to make your own decisions. But please don't take out your anger or frustration out on your parents. They've always been there for you and they always will be. Don't push them away and don't ignore them. Talk to them, tell them how your day was at school, and keep them updated on your life. Ask them about their job or ask them to tell you stories about when they were your age. Build a strong and close relationship with them, you won't regret it.

8. It’s OK to get excited.

Go ahead, scream and jump up and down when your parents buy you concert tickets to your favorite band for your Christmas present. Or hug your best friend extra tight when she gets you that phone case you've been wanting for a while. You don't have to be ashamed that Disney movies are your favorite or that you actually enjoy going on vacation with your family. Getting excited about things in your life doesn't make you seem like a little kid, it'll actually make you happier if you let yourself enjoy the little things.

9. Don’t go into stores like Aeropostale or Hollister. Just don’t.

First of all, stores like that normally only design clothes for one body type and just because their jeans don't fit you perfectly doesn't mean you're any less beautiful. Secondly, they'll go out of style and you'll have 30 t-shirts laying around that you'll never wear again. So just don't...it's a bad idea.

10. Try not to gossip.

It's tempting. Everyone does it. But most of the time your harsh words will come back around to get you. Try not to judge people without knowing the whole story and always stick up for others. Assuming things and spreading rumors will only get you into trouble, and you'll end up hurting a lot of feelings along the way.

11. Be genuinely nice.

It feels good when someone compliments you or helps you pick up your stuff if you drop it, so try extra hard to be kind to everyone around you. You can easily make someone's day or even make a new friend. Smile at everyone you pass, don't put others down for being different than you, and make sure you listen just as much as y outtalk.

12. Talk to adults and enjoy their company.

The grownups in your life have been around a lot longer than you and they have so many fun stories or words of wisdom to give you if you just give them your full attention. It can be really interesting to hear about their past and compare it to your life today.

13. Love yourself.

Some days it seems impossible, but you should always remember how valuable you are. Never look in the mirror and pick at all the things you hate about yourself. Rather, think of your strengths and appreciate what sets you apart from everyone else.

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