Now that I’m 19, I realize there are so many things I wish I was taught as a kid. Because of this, I made a list of everything I will make sure to teach my own (if I am to have any). Some of these I was taught but others I had to figure out on my own:
1. Always stand up to a bully
Bullies will never stop unless you make them stop.
2. Don’t be afraid to talk to new people
This is the only way you’ll make some of your best friends in life.
3. Always ask questions
Whether it’s in school or in a conversation, this is the only way you’ll learn in life.
4. Cherish your grandparents
They have done so much for me and they will do even more for you. Cherish them while you still can.
5. Treat everyone equally
Everyone comes from a different walk of life and no one deserves to be treated differently because of that.
6. Trust your gut
You’ll have a certain intuition on things in life, always follow it.
7. Never hide your weird
If someone doesn’t like it, they don’t like you.
8. You’ll make mistakes until the day you die
Mistakes are the only way you can learn.
9. Tell people how you feel
If you have a crush, ask them out; if someone is bad for your mental health, tell them you can’t be friends; if you love someone, let them know.
10. Your mental health is so important
If you think something is wrong, ask for help. Do not hide it or be afraid to seek treatment.
11. Always say please and thank you
It’s just the right thing to do.
12. Take the time to get to know people that most people don’t
Talk to the janitor at your school or ask how your waitress' day was — it doesn’t cost anything to be a nice person.
13. Crying is OK
It does not make you weak, it will make you feel better.
14. Sexuality and gender are confusing and not set in stone
Many people question these things about themselves until they die, never feel pressured to give yourself a label.
15. Some friends aren’t forever
There will be people that will let you down and hurt you, and it’s not you that’s the problem, it’s the situation or them.
16. Don’t let your first heartbreak define you
There will probably be more, but in the end, someone will make you forget all of it.
17. Follow your dreams
Never think your dreams are too big or unrealistic. You can do anything you put your mind to.
18. Work hard in life
Give everything all your effort even if at times it seems useless.
19. Make time for you
Life is going to be full of things to keep you busy, but always make time to do something for yourself.
20. Don’t let social media control your life
If you’re glued to your phone, you’ll miss so many opportunities.
I vow to teach my kids these life lessons and many more.
