As life goes on, we all come across obstacles that we learn from. We overcome loss, heartbreak, hard tests, family trouble, the list goes on. As we grow older each year, we keep a mental list of things that keep us going in the tough times. A list that we can always go to for reassurance. This list isn't technically something that us alone have made, but advice picked up from the years passed. Throughout my years, I have had many mentors speak knowledge into my life, some friends who are so wise beyond their years, and my family.
1. No One Is Scrutinizing Everything You Do.
We all do it. We do or say something slightly embarrassing, and we think that the world is ending. It's not. Everyone is either not paying attention, or too concerned with themselves to laugh all night and day about your accidental trip in the lunch room two days ago.
2. You Aren't Fat.
Every teenage girl is obsessed about their weight and how they look. Whether most of us admit it or not, we are all in the same boat. We want everyone to love us, because we think that will make us love ourselves. That is not the case. Worry about loving yourself, instead of loving the idea of other people loving you. You've been criticizing yourself for years and it hasn't worked. Try approving of yourself and see what happens.
3. Popularity In High School Means NOTHING.
Freshman year, around age 14, it seems like your status in high school is going to determine your reputation and social life till you die. Good news, that's not the case at all. My best friends are the ones that don't care at all about the opinion of others, and they will go out into the world and be remarkable.
4. Having A Few Close Friends Is A Lot Better Than Having A Bunch Of Acquaintances.
At the start of high school, I had a mindset that I had to be friends with everyone. I felt as if I had to have all the upper class students like me, and I had to be popular. My best friend group consists of 2 other people and me. I soon found out that all the acquaintances I made, did nothing for me accept bring me down or send me the homework. Now, they're just Facebook friends like my status' every once in awhile. My two best friends from high school, I know I will have for a lifetime.
5. Love More.
Let me explain this. I don't mean date every guy possible and flirt like there is no tomorrow. I simply mean to be kinder. That boy who sits alone? Ask him to join your table and he'll become your new friend. The girl who everyone thinks is weird and shuts out? If you strike up a conversation, you'll find out she's an amazing artist. Be more thoughtful in your words and actions. Show empathy for others and don't be selfish.
6. Process The Tough Stuff.
It is okay to cry. More than okay. It's even healthy and therapeutic. Don't let anyone tell you different.
7. Don't Worry About The Boy Who Said You Weren't Worth It.
Every boy has a slight ego that they're better than every girl out there and that no girl deserves them. A boy can never tell you your self worth. He cannot tell you that you aren't worth it. He can't tell you how to look or how to act. Don't ever listen to a boy who tries to downgrade you. And don't ever think that if a boy bullies you that he likes you. You are capable of more than you know and worthless boys will hold you down from ruling the world.
8. Don't Sell Yourself Short.
Don't let your whole life be one big "Sorry, my fault?" even when it's not. Don't think you aren't good enough for anything. Give yourself some credit! You'll be just fine.
9. Don't Be Scared To Love.
Love is a scary thing. It's a hard thing. It breaks your heart and angers you sometimes. But, it is one of the most beautiful and purest things to ever exist. It can be something that gets you out of bed in the morning. Something that makes your heart flutter and your voice trip over your words. It makes you smile until your cheeks hurt and shows you a type of happiness that you can't explain. Don't miss out on it.
10. Allow The Lord To Take Over Your Life and Fill Your Heart.
The Holy Spirit, once inside of you, is so beautiful. It changes your life forever. Lives are saved and healed, happiness is brought to life, and once you experience this, you won't ever want to go back. All your worries, fears, anxiety, sadness is taken away by The Lord and thrown away. What replaces those spots are happiness, love for the Lord and others, and a sudden calm in the world. The word is so beautiful and with it, you can move mountains. Not once does the Bible say "Worry about it" "Stress over it" or, "Figure it out". But over and over it clearly says, "Trust God." If God brings you to it; He will bring you through it.
