Don’t get me wrong, there is not a girl in the world who does not appreciate being called pretty – myself included. And it's not that being called pretty is a bad thing, but there are so many other ways to describe someone that could mean a little bit more. Here are a few of my favorites:

1. Thoughtful

I love the little things: Noticing that people got their haircut or remembering a little detail about a friend’s day and then asking them about it. When someone remembers that I have a big exam and wishes me luck, or asks me about something I did recently, it makes me feel good. And I want everyone that I care about to feel like that.

2. Affable

Sometimes life is hard and things happen. Being able to talk to people about those things is one of the best ways to get over them and move on. Everyone deserves someone to talk to who genuinely listens, and I aim to be that person for the people in my life.

3. Kind

Being nice to one another is something that really isn't that hard to do, and definitely is not done enough. Regardless of who you are, where you come from, or what your beliefs are, being nice is always the right answer. And a nice human being is the best kind of human being you can be.

4. Intelligent

This is pretty self-explanatory and generic, but it means a lot. Because we live in such a physical world, inner beauty and brainpower can take a back seat to more superficial qualities like our appearance. Your appearance is important, but it's not everything.

5. Authentic

I don't know if having a favorite word is a thing, but if so, this is by far my favorite. Being someone who is genuinely and unapologetically themselves is a trait that I admire the most in people. It's hard to do and rare to come by, but being authentic means so much more than being a pretty face.

And in case you haven't been told in a while, I think you are thoughtful, easy to talk to, kind, smart, and authentic. And hey, you're pretty too.