I still remember you, that confused young girl that just wanted so badly to fit into a place that never felt quite right. I remember the way it felt to not feel good enough. I remember believing other girls had it all: tons of friends, the most expensive clothes, boyfriend after boyfriend, and no curfew. I remember it all too well. It felt like no matter what you did, you’d never compare to them. I remember. I remember because I was you, my teenage-self. Some time has passed now. I’m a little bit older, and quite a bit wiser, but I still remember you. The years have delivered wisdom, as they’ve come and gone, luckily, and have left me with some things I need to tell you:

Stop trying to fit in.

Those girls you want to be like won’t always be “popular.” Outside of the high school walls is a whole other world. This world is filled with every type of person imaginable, there is no longer a “popular” category. Stop trying to mold yourself into a category that no longer exists after graduation. Stay true to yourself. You’ll be much happier, I promise.

Lay off the makeup.

I know, you’re still trying to find what works best for you but, trust me, the packed on eyeliner is not working. Less is more when it comes to your make up. You’re beautiful the way you are, whether you believe it yet or not. There’s no reason to hide behind a pound of make-up

Thank mom and dad.

I get it, the other teenagers are out all night long, every single weekend and you’re at home, it doesn’t seem fair. Mom and Dad give you an early curfew and you have to miss all of the “fun.” Thank them, it means they care. They care about your safety, and your whereabouts, and your future. They know what happens at those parties, and I agree, they aren’t where you need to be. Invite a friend over, watch movies with family, catch up on homework, find something more meaningful than a Saturday night out with people who are only looking to have a good time.

Don’t be mean.

Sometimes you will reach your breaking point and it will be very tempting to be mean, but don’t. Don’t be mean to your teacher, they are only doing their job. Don’t be mean to your parents, they truly do love you. Don’t be mean to your siblings, they’re your lifetime friends. Don’t be mean to your friends, they are the people you can count on. Especially don’t be mean to people who are being mean to you, they are the ones that truly need your kindness. You will find in time that it does your soul good to show kindness.

Worry about your future.

It can feel as though what is happening at the very moment is what will happen forever, but it’s not. You have a future and it is bright, look forward to it. Get your grades up, volunteer somewhere, meet tons of people, decide what you want your future to look like and make it happen. The world is at your feet- take the step.

With this being said, there’s nothing wrong with who you are. I still remember you. I know you are kind, and smart, and loving, and respectable, but I also know it’s hard to see past the world of high school. You’re always going to be a part of who I am. Without you, I wouldn’t have found myself today. I’m still not the “it girl” you long to be, but I know I am exactly who I am intended to be and I’ve come to love it, you will too!