1. Your grades are important but so is your sanity.
The point of high school is obviously to get an education that will prepare you either for college or the workforce, but sometimes it's okay to sacrifice one homework grade for some much-needed sleep.
2. But like I said, your grades are important.
If you do your best to keep up with them, it really will pay off. Skipping one or two homework assignments is understandable, but completely blowing off a test is not.
3. FOMO (fear of missing out) will definitely become a familiar feeling.
But I can guarantee you, you're really not missing much. There will be another night for you to play cards or eat at that great Chinese restaurant with your friends. Sometimes other things are just more important at the time.
4. If your friends really care about you, they won't make your FOMO worse.
If your priority right now is studying or being with your family or focusing on a hobby, your friends should completely understand and support you in anything you do.
5. Don't take your mom for granted.
Go lay in her lap when you're upset (which will probably be often). Hug her hard. She won't always be there to do your laundry and tell you everything's gonna be okay.
6. You will graduate, and you will get into college.
I know it all seems so far away and unachievable now, but it will all come in time. There's no need to spend your time wishing it was over. Enjoy your time being young and having no bills or mouths to feed.
7. Every day isn't going to be perfect.
Your friends may upset you, you might not get that lead role or that position you wanted, you might fail a few tests. It is okay. Just breathe; the sun will come up tomorrow.
8. No one really cares what you look like at school.
Everyone is too focused on themselves to care. It's not a fashion show. Don't worry about brands because no one is going to remember if you had those knock off Birkenstock's. Wear what you want, and be comfortable doing it.
9. BUT follow the dress code.
Even if you think it's completely stupid and unnecessary. It's just easier to follow the rules. Once you graduate, you can wear whatever you so, please.
10. Get involved in the things that interest you.
Your hobbies will bring so much joy and accomplishment into your life. Immerse yourself in them. Fall in love with them. You might even be able to make a career out of them.
11. You aren't too young to fall in love.
BUT think long and hard before you allow yourself to. Some people really aren't worth falling in love with.
12. Don't worry so much about having a boyfriend.
Don't date someone just because everyone else is. Trust me, it's rarely fun and pretty much always ends in heartbreak. Be careful.
13. You are so worthy of love.
Treat yourself like you are, and make sure those around you are treating you that way as well.
14. Don't spend so much time trying to be pretty.
There are a lot more exciting, fulfilling things to be than just pretty.
15. Losing friends is inevitable.
That girl you thought would be your maid of honor may not even be at your wedding. Girls hurt each other, they gossip, and they lie. Just know who you can really count on, and let everyone else go.
16. Don't blow all your money on food.
Eat at home most of the time. It's better for you and so much cheaper. Also, you won't be able to eat home cooked meals in college. Savor it.
17. Stop being rude to your parents.
Your mom literally birthed you and sacrificed her entire life to make sure you're healthy, safe, and happy. The least you can do is show her some respect.
18. You can always turn to God.
He has you in the palm of his hand, clutched to his chest. Trust in Him; lean on Him.
