Remember the letters your middle school teachers would have you write to your future or past self? I always felt sentimental while doing those exercises, even if my classmates thought they were cheesy. I wish I could relocate some of those lost mementos to read them now.

If I could lend advice to my past self, I would choose to write to who I was precisely at the age of 16. This was by far the most difficult year for me in terms of struggling with life, death and everything in between. Here's what I would say:

1. Be kind to yourself.

Let's kick this letter off with the most important point. This is the theme of this letter, and hopefully of your life. There's so much good in you, it's time for you to let it shine. Know that it's okay to take a day to yourself to just curl up with a good book, your cat and some hot chocolate.

2. You don't have to prove anything to anyone but yourself.

We know how strong you are. Trust me on this, you'll only hurt yourself in the long-run by forcing yourself to be there at tragic times. People will respect you and understand if you explain that you know what is best for you and choose not to be there.

3. You owe nothing to that boy.

You love ferociously, but he's not worthy of it. Love yourself ferociously instead. You deserve it. The right one will come along. Spoiler: he's already there right now.

4. Never apologize for being who you are or saying what you want to say.

Break the habit of prefacing statements or actions with: "I'm sorry, but..." or "This is stupid, but..." No more! Put yourself out there and have confidence! The people who matter to you most won't think that what you have to say is stupid. If they do, you don't need them.

5. You are still growing.

We all are. Cut yourself some slack. Nothing is forever. You're perfect the way you are. Remember this when you're being too critical towards yourself.

6. Spending excessive amounts of time on your phone isn't going to teach you any lesson except for #7.

7. Don't compare yourself to other people.

This is the fruit of all evil in our generation. Twitter, Instagram and Facebook are catalysts for this terrible habit. Social media may not leave a lasting impression on your life, but the moments where you appreciate who you are and how far you've come will. Embrace your individuality and understand that each person has their own story to tell. Consult #5 if this isn't enough.

8. Listen more.

Not every moment needs words or your thoughts. Sometimes it's best to just take it in and let it go. Sometimes it's not worth the stress of trying to argue.

9. Don't expect to know 100% what your career plan is.

When people ask you what you want to do with your life, how the heck are you supposed to be completely confident in knowing at the inexperienced age of 16?! Put your answer out there still, because some of the replies you'll receive after telling them you're going to the Navy might guide you to your next move.

10. It's okay to change your mind.

See #2 and #4.

11. It's perfectly fine not to have everything figured out.

At the wise age of 20, I still don't. At the age of 50, I probably still won't then. That's the joy of this roller coaster ride called life.

Life is tough, but we're designed to survive. Go show the world what you have to offer.