I’ve always wished that I could go back and give my younger self bits of advice. Over the years I’ve learned so much about myself and what’s actually important but really, I wish I would have learned all of those things earlier. But, simply put, that’s not going to happen. However, I’m lucky enough to have two younger siblings. Two siblings that can learn from my mistakes and hopefully live a better life than I have. So, to my younger siblings, here's a bit of advice:
1. Be proud of who you are.
You have grown up to be amazing people. You have accomplished so much. I’m proud of you and you should be proud too.
2. Don’t be afraid to be weird.
There’s too many normal people in the world. Seriously, embrace the unique. It’s what will make you stick out and impress people the most.
3. Let mom and dad embarrass you.
I know, it makes you uncomfortable. But it’s how they show their love for you.
4. Spend enough time with mom and dad to let them embarrass you.
One of my biggest regrets is not spending enough time with mom and dad when I was in high school. Please, spend time with them. They’re pretty cool.
5. And while we’re at it, spend time with each other.
You may think you hate each other now, but you’re going to miss each other soon enough. Please enjoy the time you have now.
6. Don’t stick to one friend group.
Make as many friends from as many circles as you can. This allows you to learn and experience life in multiple ways. You get to see life from several different angles and learn to see how others see.
7. Don’t change yourself to fit your friends.
If they can’t like you for you, they’re not worth it. But seriously, the worst mistake I ever made was changing who I was because I wanted to “fit in”. Don’t make that mistake, please.
8. Speak up in class.
The ability to will help in college. It will also help you learn better. Discussing your ideas out-loud will only benefit you.
9. Don’t let people walk all over you.
My second biggest mistake was this. Stand up for yourself. Don’t let people take advantage of you. Be a good friend, but also make sure you’re not getting screwed over.
10. Don’t worry about what people in high school think.
Their opinions do not matter. And in only a few years they will be out of your life for good.
11. Seriously, they’ll probably be stuck in the same place five years from now.
And you won’t be. You both have such amazing dreams and plans for your life that will take you to the edges of the earth. So don’t get caught up in what some nobodies think of you.
12. Do whatever makes you happy, even if no one else is doing it.
When everything is said and done, the only thing that matters is that you’re happy. Even if you think someone will judge you for your choices, screw them. It doesn’t matter. No one else’s opinions matter. Only yours.
I know that it’s a lot to ask, but please at least consider these things. I'm not naive enough to believe you won't make your own mistakes, but try not to make the same ones I did on top of your own. You have made me so proud and no matter what you do in your life I will always love you so much more than you know. Continue to be the strong, passionate individuals that you are and never give up on your dreams. No matter what, I will always be here for you <3
