When I was younger, I thought being an adult was one of the coolest things ever and how I wanted to be one as soon as I could. Boy, how the tables have turned. Do I like where I am now in life? Yes. of course, I couldn't be happier. I was blessed enough to have a great childhood, and if I had a chance to relive my childhood, I would take it in a heartbeat. If I could go back in time and talk to my younger self, there would be five things I would want to tell myself.
1. Enjoy this time while you can.
As you get older, things start to change and feel differently. Holidays don't feel like holidays anymore, they just feel like another day. You start to realize who your friends really are. Also don't try to rush things. Don't stress about growing up so you can drive or wear mascara, you'll have plenty of time to do "adult things," but being a kid only lasts so long.
2. Don't change yourself for people who don't matter.
You are going to cross paths with people in life who will make you want to change yourself in order to fit in or have them like you. Well, I'm here to tell you that the boy isn't worth it, and that group of girls who you want to be friends with aren't worth it either. You'll be so much happier when you can learn to be yourself. You should never have to fight for the approval and love from others or ever feel ashamed of who you are. The most meaningful people you meet in life are the ones that love you for you.
3. Understand where your parents are coming from.
Your parents are family, and all they want is the best for you in life. So before you throw a tantrum or try to argue with your parents, just know that things they do come from love. One day, you're going to move away from home and pursue your future, and you won't be living with them anymore. You'll be on your own, so spend more time with them and tell them you love them every chance you get.
4. Take a risk once in a while.
Yes, it's OK to be shy, but that's going to hold you back from so many opportunities in life. It's OK to step outside of your comfort zone, and if someone judges you for that then who cares? Because I guarantee you no one will remember if you embarrassed yourself or not. Learn to live a little and who knows where that risk could take you (nothing dangerous though please).
5. Be confident in yourself.
You'll encounter many times when you experience low self-esteem and try to point out your own flaws on your body. Just know that it doesn't matter what people think. Everyone's different, so have a little more pride of who you are. Please don't ever compare yourself to others or the models you see in magazines and TV, because those other girls have flaws of their own just like you, and nothing is real about the models you see in those advertisements.
I guess what I'm trying to say to you and all the other kids out in the world today, is please don't take your childhood for granted.
