Hello Friends,
Being a teen is complex and complicated. You face so many new experiences and emotions, and often, it feels like no one understands. So, to hopefully help any teens out there reading this and remind everyone else of these important life lessons, I will be covering some of the most important lessons I learned as a teen in the 21st century.
First, you are so much more than your grades. From the 6th grade up, I had it locked into my head that every grade defined my future. I would tell myself I was “only as smart as my last grade.” Now, I look back and wish I could hug my high school self and tell her exactly what I am going to tell you. I know it feels like your grades are the most important thing in the world right now. You may even feel an unsurmountable pressure to do well.
However, you are so much more than your grades, and just because you got a B- on your tough physics test doesn’t mean you’re stupid, the world will end, or you’ll never amount to anything. It is just one grade; take it as an opportunity to learn from your mistakes and try to do better next time. These grades will not matter in a couple of years in the grand scheme of things. So, take a breath and remember that no matter your grade on your next exam or big assignment, the sun will come up tomorrow, and it will be okay.
Next, you need to take care of yourself. The lack of self-care I did as a teen is frankly scary. You have to be your number one priority. As a teen, you are at the point where other people will stop doing everything for you. Independence is exciting; however, it also means that if you don’t take care of yourself, no one else will. You have to show up for yourself first if you 1. Want to be able to show up for others, and 2. Want others to show up for you?
Third, stop letting people walk all over you. Unfortunately, this only kicked in for me in the last couple of years of being a teen. For so long, I was a doormat for anyone and everyone who wanted to walk over me. I thought that was the only way people would like me…untrue. When I stopped doing that, I actually weaved out the people I didn’t want in my life and was able to find more like-minded true friends.
Finally, it is okay if you feel alone and as if you don’t fit in. This is completely normal, and I promise that everyone around you feels or has felt the same way, even if they don’t show or admit it. Unfortunately, It is just part of being a teen, but I promise it gets better. For the time being, I guarantee there are people around you who love you and are there for you…like me. I am cheering you on every step of the way!
There are so many more, lessons I learned as a teen. So if you enjoyed this post, make sure to leave a comment here or on social media to let me know if you want a part two!
Until next week, My Friends.
P.S. I’m proud of you 😉