Dear Teenage Me,

So I have some good news and some bad news. Now, knowing you, you’re going to want the bad news first so that you can then hear the good news and feel a little better. I don’t want you to be shocked or upset by what I’m about to tell you, and I know that you’ll just tell me I’m wrong, but I am always right, as you know.

The bad news is that Chris Pratt and Anna Faris have split up. No, this is not a joke. They really have called it quits. Obviously this is not the bad news I wanted to tell you about, but I wanted to give you a little perspective so what I’m about to say doesn’t seem too bad. What I really wanted to tell you is that you are extremely awkward right now. Which is okay, that’s totally normal. Plenty of teenagers are going through an awkward stage, it’s whatever, they’ll get over it. Unfortunately for you, this is not the case. I can say with the highest confidence that I have, that you are still going to be an awkward mess by the time you’re 20. Maybe even more awkward, if that’s possible. You will turn normal, casual situations awkward just by trying to make them not awkward. I can guarantee that you will be in a high state of uncomfortability about 95% of the time. I know, it’s tragic. You can try all you want to not be awkward, please do try a little, but sooner or later (hopefully sooner) you’ll just have to face the facts and own it. Stop worrying about what other people are thinking, stop trying to make a good impression by trying too hard. Just be yourself, and your awkwardness will come off as charming… I hope. Don’t hold me to that, I’m just speculating.

Now the good news is is that you are stronger than you think. I know that you’re feeling scared, insecure, and not ready. But, let me tell you… you are more than ready for anything that comes your way. Life isn’t that scary. I mean sure, not everything is certain and you can’t control everything, and that’s scary, but it’s not something to be afraid of. You are going to meet people that drive you nuts, people that enlighten you, people that build you up and make you feel good about yourself. These people are going to help you see your own potential and help you realize that you can do anything you set your mind to. Trust me, I know how cliche that sounds but it’s true. You are going to experience so many new things, different things, things you never thought you would ever do you’ll find yourself wanting to do them again. So don’t worry so much, you’ve got this. Plus, Chris Pratt is now a free man. Who cares about the age difference now? You’re an adult, he’s an adult… stranger things have happened.

There’s one more thing I want you to know, you are an amazing, intelligent, and beautiful girl with the biggest heart. Stop stressing over the small things and enjoy your life.

Much love…

Your 20 year old self.