Dear High School Me,
Stop hating yourself. Yes, I know I can’t just say that and suddenly you’ll stop, but it’s important that you try taking a little step every day towards loving yourself. Sweetie, I’m still struggling with this, so that should show you that it’s a long process.
I know what you’re going to do. You’re going to put on three different outfits or more, feeling fat and stupid in each one…but I promise you, you are the only one who thinks so. Your family loves you no matter what, and guess what? Every other kid in high school is facing their own struggles as well. Confidence and fitting in don’t come easy to anyone, even if they do a good job of pretending.
Besides, you’re the only one who gets to be you, right? Stop wanting to look like every other girl in school when you get to look like you.
Don’t push people away. And what I mean by this is don’t push away the new girl who hesitantly asks to sit at your lunch table. Just like you, she’s uncomfortable and just trying to make some friends to help her through these four years. Chances are, she’s really cool and will only make your life brighter.
Don’t judge the other girls. Stop putting them down and hating them because you’re insecure about yourself. Instead of gossiping about that girl with the cute dress, her flawless makeup and how “fake” she looks. Instead, walk up to her and tell her how beautiful she looks or how cute her dress is.
I don’t care what you say, but pay the compliment and watch as she smiles. You will both feel good about yourselves.
Do things you want to do and don’t let fear stop you. You only get to be this age once, and yes, I know you’re thinking all the real fun doesn’t start until college. However, that does not have to be true.
The English department is planning a trip to England and you want to go? Raise the money and attend the meeting. You want to try out for the school’s musical? Practice and audition. Even if these things don’t work out, you will always look back and remember that you tried.
Take care of yourself. Whether that’s taking a long shower, eating some ice cream, or going on a long run…do what will make you happy. Don’t spend so much time feeling sorry for yourself. If you get into that funk, go out and do an activity that will make you excited and happy. Please.
And finally, know that you are going to make it. You are going to do just fine.
Take a deep breath and a moment to relax every time you are feeling overwhelmed. You’re young and no one expects you to know what your plan is for the next 10 years. Just remember to do the best you can and live your life.
By the way, you’re still doing great in a few years, so that should encourage you a bit!
Love,
Anastasia
HCXO