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Health and Wellness

4 Things I Wish I Knew When I Was An Ignorant Kid

A letter to my younger self.

Olivia Chaisson

Feb 22, 2017

University of Maryland College Park

4 Things I Wish I Knew When I Was An Ignorant Kid

Odyssey

To my younger self:

I know you are still trying to figure your life out and figure out who you are, but I'm writing this to let you know it is going to be okay. Life is gonna throw things at you that you aren't expecting and that's okay. When you are feeling overwhelmed, upset and like you just can't do anything right. Take some of my advice.

1. Make a plan.

You CAN get everything done. No matter how many things you need to do. You WILL make time to get it done. Just organize yourself. Write out a To Do list. Make some goals for yourself and stick to them. Plan some fun activities for yourself, as well as plan time to get your work done.

2. Treat yourself with respect.

No one is perfect. Everyone makes mistakes. As long as you learn from them they don't become regrets. Realize that you are human and not everything is gonna go your way. Treat yourself with some respect. Don't put yourself down. Don't punish yourself for things you can't change. Know that you are a person that is valued in this world no matter what anyone else says. Keep your head up.

3. Get fit.

You always feel better after you work out. Being in shape is a huge confidence boost for everyone including you. So get your butt up and go work out! Put down the junk food. I know the brownies, chocolate, donuts and other sugary crap tastes good, but it is HORRIBLE for you. Put down the soda and start drinking a lot of water. Make some more healthier choices. You will be so much better for it.

4. Socialize and try new things.

No matter how crappy feel or look. You need to get out of your own head and your comfort zone. Try something new. Meet new people. What's the worse that can happen? Socializing is good for your mental, emotional and social health.

I know life is hard, but it is crazy wonderful. Some people are not nice humans, but you will meet so many incredible and amazing people in your life. You may not always have faith or confidence in yourself, but no one always does. We are all just trying to figure out what life is about. Here are some words of advice for you; Be kinder to those around you, let people in, love harder, don't isolate yourself, don't judge other people and always know that you are valued. Lastly, remember that life is short and you can't always be waiting for a storm to pass.

Love,

Your older and hopefully wiser self

P.S. You are stronger than you think and just keep going.

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This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.

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