I have been asked before what I would change from my high school experience or what I would change about my high school self. Those are great questions and have caused me a lot of reflection, but truth is? High school was fun, hard and everything in between. I made a ton of mistakes, but I wouldn't change anything. Those experiences helped shaped me into the woman I am today. This open letter is me trying to compile all of that reflection into one, truthful message to my high school self.

Dear High School Me,

Every test doesn't determine what college you'll go to.

Although the biggies like the SAT and ACT play a role in getting into the college of your dreams, that AP Calculus test that you're beating yourself up over for days will never, ever be seen by a college admissions counselor. It's not worth the shame you're putting onto yourself. Let it go and just focus on the next test.

Stop comparing yourself to others.

I think the main reason you're so stressed all the time is the fact that you have to be better than everyone else. It doesn't matter what grade the smartest student got on their test. It doesn't matter how much prettier you think other girls are than you. It doesn't matter how much better of a softball player you think other teammates are than you. That stuff is totally insignificant in the grand scheme of things. It's a heavy enough burden to worry about yourself, so just focus on that.

You don't have to do this alone.

Even though it feels like it is all on you to get into college, pay for it and pick the right school, it's not. Mom and Dad aren't just telling you what you want to hear when they say your best is enough. You have the God of the universe on your side and despite how in-control you think you are, you never have been and never will be. The same God who thought the world needed you is the one who is pulling the strings for your future. His plan is way better than yours. Trust and relax in that truth.

The best is yet to come.

Don't believe those people that say that high school is the best four years of your life. These years are so much fun and such an important part of your story, but they are not the best. Not even close. When you get to college, the friends get better, the teachers get better and the class material gets better. Everything is better. Including you. You'll see that you have always been enough and that you are so much more capable than you ever thought you were. Hang in there.

Love,

Your Future Self