Up until age 11 I was always one of the tallest kids in my class. Then I stopped growing when everyone else began catching up. At 5'1" I've realized sometimes life isn't easy being "short". There are many perks, but also many downsides. Here are just a few:

1. Top shelf? No.

You better have a step stool or a tall friend around because at the store, or even in your own home, the top shelf is a no-go zone for things hidden away. We can't reach them unless we get an extra boost, so I at least keep everything down low. But even getting over and into things can be difficult.

2. Clothes-too long or too short

If a person of average height wears capris, they go mid calf, where anyone shorter they go to an ankle. I've tried petite, but just because I'm shorter doesn't necessarily mean I also shrunk in six inches too. Sweatpants that bunch up on the bottom REALLY bunch up for me. Normal length shirts go down to my thighs, and my arms are always completed covered. Yes, my sweatshirts are very comfy and cover me well, but sometimes I want to wear cute clothes that are meant to be cropped or shorter that don't go to a normal length on me.

3. Driving

I always get into trouble with the "you need to be a foot away from the steering wheel". Well, when my feet barely reach the gas and brake pedals, I'm going to scoot up. I'm lucky enough to have an electric seat that moves horizontally and vertically, but if I drive someone else's car I can barely make it over the steering wheel.

5. Hugs

If I hug someone who isn't short as well, this can be awkward on so many levels. So I've learned to give the appropriate side hug.

6. Nicknames

"Fun-size", "shorty", "munchkin", you name it. I've been called it all. I typically get the "you're so small it's adorable" which can be very flattering or misleading, depending on who says it. Just think ahead before you say something that may be offensive.

8. Crowds and pictures

If I want to find a friend at a pit in a concert or walking around a crowd of people, I would be better off just going off somewhere else and waiting. Being short does no good in big areas, and the same goes for pictures. You either have to be in front, or you probably won't exist.

Being short has its downsides, but I love it regardless. My feet will never hang off my bed, I'll be in the front of organized pictures for the memories, and if the myth is right, I'll live longer. So if you're short be happy. You'll have enough people to be your "tall friend". Find a few step stools, readjust the car mirrors often, and be happy.