For those of us with younger sisters, we feel a personal duty to give them advice when it comes to life (even though we haven't figured it out yet either). We want to see nothing but the best for our sisters. We all get caught up in the world and forget about what truly matters. Here are fifteen things to remind and advise to our sisters:
1. Listen more. I was told this all the time growing up and never took it seriously. It's important to keep your mouth shut and just take the world in. Listen to other opinions and how people view things even if you don't agree with them. Educate yourself and expand your mind.
2. Take the risk. There will be times where you will be conflicting on starting something but unsure if it will benefit you. You're young enough to take risks now, do it all. Take that internship, study abroad, or do whatever else your heart desires now. You'll kick yourself if you don't when you are older.
3. It's okay to fail. Sometimes we are our own worst enemies. We can rip ourselves apart just thinking of failing at a task or letting someone down. It's important in the learning cycle that we make mistakes or fail as long as you get back up on your feet and keep trying.
4. Don't lose your drive or motivation. It's easy to fall into lazy temptations. It's okay to relax, but don't fall into the habit of doing nothing. Always stay occupied and keep your motivation strong. Make a routine: go to the gym everyday, have a certain time dedicated to school work, have a time to socialize or anything else that you usually do on a daily basis. Keep yourself on a schedule and don't let yourself fall out of it.
5. Never settle. I can't stress this enough. You are such a beautiful and strong woman with potential to do anything you want. Never settle for anything less but the best.
6. Take pictures. I say this because I never did this while I was young. You are going to be a real adult before you know it and you are going to wish you had something to look back on. Take pictures of everything and anything: silly, formal, casual, selfies and anything else. You'll thank yourself later.
7. You will find that special person. Girls feel way too pressured these days to find a boyfriend and true love, and sometimes and can end up with a broken heart instead. You will find Mr. Right someday, even if you can't see it now. We've all heard that voice wondering if anyone would want to be with us: don't listen to it. That special person will come into your life when you least expect it.
8. Friends aren't always meant to stay forever. When you were younger, you probably promised a lot of classmates that you'd be "friends forever" and now you don't even remember the last time a Facebook message was exchanged. Drifting friendships are completely normal and it's not your fault. These things happen all the time to all kinds of people. It also doesn't mean the friend hates you now. Your life is at such a chaotic stage and it's okay to focus on yourself. There's no harm to catch up every once and a while too.
9. Don't ever give up on your dreams and goals. It's easy to get discouraged and listen to the people that don't support your goals. Never listen to them, you weren't put on this earth to please others. Do whatever it is that you feel your calling is in life because you'll regret never trying to begin with.
10. Save your money. Easier said than done. Yes, I know that sweater at Abercrombie is super cute or that highlighter at Sephora is totally on fleek, but trust me when I say that $40 can be useful to you in the future. Open a savings account and put money into it every week, even if it's a small amount. You'll feel better seeing that number grow.
11. Always be kind. The world we live in can make a jerk out of all of us. Always strive to be kind to people even if they aren't kind to you. You never know what a person is going through. Never stoop down to that level and always be the bigger person. A small act of kindness might change their whole attitude.
12. You aren't weak for crying. Releasing your emotions is always healthy, they should never be bottled up. Sometimes nothing makes you feel better than having a good cry.
13. Be Informed. Watch the news and stay updated on what is going on in the world. Learn about politics and how our government works. Educate yourself on the current events of today.
14. Fight for something you want or believe in. Things never come easy. You have to fight and work hard for everything you want in life. Don't give up. You'll appreciate whatever it is you are fighting for more.
15. You are never alone, I am always here. I will always be your big sister. It's a job that was given to me at birth. Your happiness and success means the world to me. I am always a text message away if you need anything and I will always be there to hold your hand as you go through this journey of adulthood. I already see the amazing things you are capable of and can't wait for the world to see them too. I love you.
