Looking back at my life a few years ago, there's only one word to describe it; yikes! I wasn't all that bad, but there are things that I know now that I wish I'd known during my pre-teen years. I have to admit though, I was a HOT MESS. You live and learn though, and I'm just glad that I matured over the years. If I could go back and time and have a conversation with my 12-14-year-old self, I would tell her these things:
1. Don't Force A Friendship If It Isn't Meant To Be
I cannot stress this enough! Even now I find myself worrying about people who aren't even worried about me. However, I can say that I've gotten better at knowing my worth and not depending on anyone to be in my life. Why should I have to wait until you're bored to talk to me? I'm not even going to lie though, I used to reply to people in 0.2 seconds even if they'd take a century to text back. I was so afraid of being alone that I'd tolerate being treated like dirt for just the smallest ounce of attention. Don't worry though, those days are definitely over!
2. Stand Up For What You Believe In!
I have no idea why, but I always thought it was normal to have the same beliefs and ideas as everyone else. I was like this for a while until I decided to make an effort to understand the world around me and all of the different people in it. Everyone is different, no two people will have identical beliefs. Coming to this revelation made me realize that It's not a bad thing to think differently. No matter what, you should always have the right and opportunity to speak up for what you believe in. While doing so, you should also be open-minded enough to take beliefs from the other side into consideration.
3. DON'T LISTEN TO ELSA: DON'T CONCEAL, FEEL!!
It's okay to have emotions. It's okay to let those emotions out. It isn't okay though to believe that you are weak for expressing said emotions. Emotions are very real and very normal and the only things on this planet that shouldn't have emotions are robots! I mean have you guys seen Sophia the Robot? Imagine if our future robot assistants and self-driving cars were mad at us. We'd be done for!
Getting back on topic, it's very normal to experience all of the emotions that make us human. I'm speaking for myself when I say it's fine to cry it out if you're feeling overwhelmed with everything around you.
Not everyone else is a crybaby like I am though, so hopefully, the methods that I am about to mention can help someone: Working out and meditation can help clear the mind and any negative emotions that you are experiencing, jotting your thoughts down can also help with clearing the mind and overwhelming emotions, even talking it out with someone does help!
4. Success Is the Best Revenge!
Getting back at someone may sound good and all, but does it really make you feel better? You should never stoop to someone's level to return the favor. The ideology of "eye for an eye" is rubbish. Don't try taking matters into your own hands, as it could backfire and you'd be hurt all over again.
If possible, try to move forward in life with an optimistic outlook, and be the best YOU that you can be! Focus on what you believe is your life's purpose and work on completing goals for yourself.
5. Listen to People!
If I had someone that gave me these four tips a few years back, I don't think that they would significantly change anything about me. I would be more informed and happier though.
These five pieces of advice are important for impressionable adolescents to know about, and I would be glad to give my future children the same advice.
