Two weeks ago, I threw out a question on Facebook: “What advice would you give your 13-year-old self?” I expected maybe five or six answers from my friends. Instead, dozens of reflections poured in. We’re at over 60 responses now, with intriguing digressions and lots of diverse insights from women and men in their twenties, thirties, forties, fifties and sixties.
It was a great moment for the internet. I want to share the responses here. Behold, Part Three: What I’d Tell My 13-Year-Old Self. I hope new teens out there take a look. What would you add? Contact me with your entry!
Actually, you can make a decent living looking at and talking about camping equipment.
Your eyebrows are perfect and will be in style in 10 years. Keep 'em growin’, you trend setter.
Quality not quantity for friends.
Don't be afraid of everything. Be confident. Live in the moment. Try your hardest but don't stress so much. Talk to your grandparents more. Don't worry that you have muscular quads like a boy-they gave you the gift of speed. Take care of your skin.
Learn to separate "What Happened" from "What You Made It Mean"
It will get better.
How many times have you looked at someone and said boy are they lucky. Luck is only being prepared to take advantage of opportunity when it knocks.
This too will pass, and yes, you'll be with the cute guy. Better than you ever imagined... When he is not engrossed in sports. ;) You'll end up in a much better place than those who bully you. Karma is a sweet, sweet bitch!
Your sanity will be saved, as you'll eventually not care as much about how others think of you, and you will feel liberated. Yes. Everything really does work out. It may not seem like it in the moment, but it will. Think Dad is embarrassing to be seen with in public? Remember, he's only embarrassing himself. And someday you'll appreciate that goofiness. Be you for you not what your mother wants you to. You will have an amazing life doing just that. Don’t settle for anything or anyone. Don't be afraid to love or be loved. You are not invincible. Appreciation for everything goes a long way. Beyond anything you are beautiful.
Believe half of what you see and none of what you hear. Those particular opinions are usually worth what you've paid for them
Say please and thank you and do respect your elders.
It's okay to say "I don't know" if you ACTUALLY don't know, but don't be afraid to take a guess to get started.
If you shake it more than twice, you're playing with it.
You don't have as much time as you think. Make fast and informed decisions, and stick with them.
STOP SMOKING NOW!!
Don't be afraid to ask for what you want. You just might get it!
Worry less. Trust your gut. Be confident. Enjoy today. You got this!