My not-so-little-anymore sister is one of my favorite people in the world. She is smart and funny and athletic and absolutely gorgeous. She is also the one person I can trust to be totally objective and tell it like it is. If I ask a question, I better be damn sure I'm ready for the truth and I love her for that. She is my built-in best friend. One of the best parts of being a big sister is that I get to watch my younger sister grow into an incredible young woman. However, now it's time for me to be a big sister and tell you all the mistakes I made first so you don't have to. So, little one, please learn from my stupid mistakes so that you can keep being way cooler than me.
1. Unapologetically love your quirks.
Your quirks and differences are part of what make you unique. Without those weird little things you do or love, you would be someone totally different. Hiding who you are is never worth it in the end, trust me. I spent most of high school worrying about if other people thought I was normal. Spoiler alert: No one is normal. Our differences are what make life interesting! And, ultimately, you'll be way happier once you can let your crazy out.
2. Don't be afraid to be smart.
Big sister pitch: I know that sometimes being smart can be embarrassing or "uncool." I just want to let you know right now that being smart is a huge asset and will take you far. Keep studying hard and anyone who thinks it's uncool is going to have fun seeing you be wildly successful in 10 years.
3. Wear whatever the hell makes you feel pretty.
Whether that's sweatpants, red lipstick and leather, or a princess dress, wear it with pride. Don't be afraid to wear whatever makes you feel good. If you feel pretty, you'll look pretty. Period.
4. Speaking of feeling pretty, any guy who makes you feel like anything less that the most beautiful girl in the world just isn't worth it.
Baby girl, just take my word for this one. No one loves a challenge more than me, but when it comes to your heart, it isn't worth it. Even the biggest challenge in the world isn't worth getting hurt. If he doesn't give you his all, he's not worth it. No one has the right to treat you badly. Also, your brother and I will kill anyone who hurts you, so just don't do it, OK?
5. And while we're on the topic of boys, there is not a boy out there who is worth compromising your future.
There are going to be a lot of boys who are going to try to drag you down instead of bring you up. I'm telling you right now I've been there, done that and got the T-shirt, so now you don't have to. If he doesn't make you an even better human than you already are, then drop him.
6. Second chances are sometimes OK. Third, fourth and fifth chances are not.
Sometimes, people deserve second chances, whether they're ex-boyfriends or just friends. However, after that, they're done. Don't be afraid to admit that you made the wrong choice. It's OK to make a mistake when it comes to relationships, but don't let someone take advantage.
7. Listen to mama and daddy.
They know what they're talking about. Like, pretty much all of the time. They're both incredibly smart and are actually the only people who can keep us sane most of the time. I mean, think about it, they raised us and survived. They truly want nothing but the best for the three of us, and they would never purposely point us down the wrong path. Also, daddy has that weird sixth-sense thing, and it's never wrong. So if he says no to something, I promise you, he has a good reason.
8. Love your friends.
Your friends are going to get you through those tough days and they're also going to be there to celebrate your best ones. Friends are great. The end.
9. Don't give in when it matters.
Now I'm not talking about disagreeing on what movie to go see or what to paint on your arms for races. I mean the big stuff, like your morals and values, your hopes and dreams. If you feel strongly about something, don't give in. If they're true friends, they'll respect your decisions and love you anyway.
10. Go to the gym. But also eat that ice cream. It's called balance, baby girl.
Obviously, you need to be healthy. But you also need to be happy. Exercise is great and you should absolutely do it frequently. You should find a workout that you love to do. Also, food is incredible. Some days, we eat salads, some days we eat ice cream and pizza. Find that beautiful balance and learn to love it.
11. Stay young for as long as possible.
Letting my childhood go too early and never looking back is one of my biggest regrets. Embracing your childhood is one of the best and healthiest things you could ever do. Enjoy being young! Don't be afraid to let your inner child have her time. You have the rest of your life to be grown-up.
Now, since I'm your big sister, I doubt you'll listen to me, but I can only hope that some of this will sink in. I love you to pieces and I hope the rocky road I took through my teenage years has helped show you the right path.
