1. Knowledge is Power: For some reason, teenage girls think it's cute to act dumb in front of their crush. If you didn't/ don't fall victim to this weird trend, I am envious of you. Girls, if you are reading this and you happen to fall under this category – it's not too late to stop. It's not cute to act clueless in front of your crush, or anyone for that matter. If this is getting a guy's attention, you should reevaluate, because this isn't the attention you should be looking for/ getting. This characteristic is so belittling and the worst part is, you're doing it to yourself.
2. You can't help someone who doesn't want to help themselves: Another thing girls do is look for the damaged boy and try to save him. From past experiences, I can promise you that no matter how hard you try – it won't work. You are only going to hurt yourself in the long run. Hurt people, hurt people, and those who are ready for change will do it on their own terms. It's not your fault you have a big heart, but save it for someone who deserves your love, time, and effort.
3. Family trumps all: Cherish the holidays with your loved ones, call your grandparents and skip the Friday night party to hang out with your parents. I know some people dont have good relationships with their blood family, but family are those who are there when everyone else has turned their back. Love these people with your entire being, for they will celebrate the good time with you but also build you back up on your bad days. Your aunts, uncles, cousins, grand parents, parents or siblings aren't getting any younger; enjoy their company.
4. Friends come and go: The friends you have now, most likely won't be the same friends you have when you are twenty. Fourteen is a, for a lack of a better phrase, a weird age. You are trying to find yourself and so are your friends. I would be lying if I told you people don't change. Some change for the better and unfortunately some for the worse. Don't be afraid to let go of those who no longer push you to become a better person.
5. Your parents know more than you think: I am twenty one and still to this day am figuring this out. You don't know everything and neither do they, but they have a little more experience at life than you do. The next time you throw a teenager b****h fit and complain that your parents just don't understand; try to remember that they were your age not too long ago. They know what you are going through and it is probably for the best you have a curfew or are grounded for bad grades. Appreciate their love and discipline they have for you. It will make you a better person in the long run.
6. Stand up for what you believe in: I know, I know, it sounds cliche but it is so important. Don't let people drive you away from what you love and enjoy because not everyone is doing it. If you are religious or are into things that aren't particularly "popular" hold onto that and be proud. Your morals are your back bone and will guide you through all of life's battles.
7. Love yourself: There's no denying that theres always room for improvement. There will always be something you wish you could change about yourself, but that doesn't happen over night with self loathe. Insecurities are inevitable and only prove you are human. You have many things others wish for, and you are worth way more than you give yourself credit for.
8. Try everything at least once (as long as it's good for you): Go through life with open eyes and open arms. Experience goes far and gives you stories to tell. When you try things, you no longer have to wonder if you would like it, or not.
9. Follow your heart: It's the age of doing things that will gain you popularity. If you have a dream chase it until it's in your hands. You can do absolutely anything you put your mind to. The world is your pickle.
10. A bad day doesn't mean a bad life: Stop being so dramatic. Life will go on and people will forget the embarrassing thing you did. Grades are important, but they are only a test of that exact point in time. Don't be so hard on yourself, tomorrow is a new day.
11.Believe nothing you hear, and only half of what you see: Rumors have been a thing since the beginning of time and unfortunately they will probably never disappear. They're usually mean and not even true. yet everyone believes them and spreads them. Be above this trend, all rumors do is waste time and hurt feelings. Try to put yourself in their position and help put an end to them.
12. Kindness goes far: Instead of trying to knock down other girls, help build them up. Recognize you all have something to offer and you can all learn a thing or two from each other. Compliments are contagious and I am a firm believer they can lead to a kindness take over.
13. The only person you need to be better than is the person you were yesterday: The only person you're in competition with is yourself. Contrary to popular belief, mistakes make you wiser. We are all making them, the important part is that you learn from them and don't make the same mistake twice.
14. The best is yet to come: I can't even begin to tell you the amount of fun I had in high school. I made forever friends, solidified bonds with old ones, and had so many amazing experiences. I also learned a lot of lessons, some the easy way – and a majority the hard way. I had my heart broken and lost people I couldn't picture my life with out. Your teen years will be a rollercoaster, just remember to take it all in, and enjoy the ride.
