It's about that time of year. High school seniors graduate and move on to greener pastures. I recently came across the cell phone I used in high school, and with that found multitudes of texts between my friends and my parents. While reading through, I found a few tips to give to high schoolers and maybe just young people in general.
1. Worry less
It sounds so simple, but it really is super easy. Do not get caught up in drama or over-analyze a situation. Show your maturity by staying out of a situation you are unsure about. I would ask multiple friends for advice before buying a shirt or getting food at a certain restaurant. If you like the shirt, buy it. If it's a little pricey, maybe buy it when you can afford it. Don't live your life scared of how your decision is going to play out. Even if the shirt looks bad, you can always return it.
2. Don't take yourself so seriously
Hate to be the bearer of bad news, but prom is not the best day of your life. Enjoy yourself and all the pomp and circumstance, but realize that there are far better things ahead. Try not to stress too much about schoolwork or your friends because it will all work out. Make sure you're not completely focused on your math test and your boyfriend. Try and think about things that are coming, like meeting your new roommate or taking classes in your major. High school can be a fun time, but having tunnel vision can keep you from other opportunities.
3. Be nice to your parents
Your mom and dad put up with so much. Thank your parents in small ways or big, for every and any thing that they have ever done. Reading through their messages, I realized the focus was completely on my needs. Do some things on your own, or just find ways to help with the multitude of tasks they have to complete. Chances are your parents will be grateful and you will discover some new-found maturity along the way.
4. You can't predict the future
There may be signs that you won't be as close with some friends as others, but there is really no way to tell. Give every relationship your all, without regard to whether you'll talk when you're away at school. You have grown up with people and throwing it all away can seem like an easy thing to do, but you owe it to the bonds you've built to not give up so easily. Your high school friends may know things about you no one else ever will, and that isn't such a bad thing.
5. Know when to let go
That being said, don't waste time on people who don't care. There will be a time to say goodbye, and it may be painful. But again, there are far better things ahead. You will know who will stay in your life, and you know they will be there for the right reasons. Trust your best judgement, but understand everything is not always in your control, and that is okay.
