Hi friend!
If you’re a teen, feeling a bit out of place, and dreaming big, you’re exactly where you need to be.
I understand that being a teen can be like standing at an edge, peeking over, and wondering if you’ll soar or splat. So, here are seven things I’ve learned about being 17 to make your journey a little less bumpy.
Photo by Melissa Askew on Unsplash [friendship]
1. Nobody Really Knows What They’re Doing 🤷♀️
Let’s be real. People around you can seem to have it all figured out. Spoiler alert: they don’t.
From the girl who got into her dream college major to the social butterfly, we’re all just winging it.
Fortunately, knowing that and embracing it can be so powerful. It can remind you that those around you are, well, just like you! That can relieve some feelings of insecurity, helping you speak up, try new things, and go for opportunities – social, academic, or professional.
Photo by Todd Cravens on Unsplash [female friendship]
2. Self-Care Isn’t Just Bubble Baths 💆♀️💅
Sure, I enjoy my weekly bubble bath or face mask, but self-care is mainly about balance.
For example, it’s saying no to that extra activity when you’re swamped, and yes to the things that make you glow with enjoyment. Or, it’s slowing down (ngl, I’m guilty of sometimes waking up 15 minutes before class), to feel joy and relaxation.
Photo by Jared Rice on Unsplash [joyful meditation]
Personally, I implement reading, yoga and dancing in my room. But, you could do other activities, like painting.
Whatever you do, try making it easy when building a habit. For example, instead of reading for an hour, try reading just a few pages.
3. Friends Come and Go, and That’s Normal 👯♀️
High school friendships can feel like roller coasters. Like, one day you’re inseparable, and the next, you’re drifting apart. However, it’s not the end of the world. People grow and change.
But, the real ones will stick around, and new, amazing people will enter your life. Keep your heart open <3
Photo by Nate Johnston on Unsplash [best friends]
Having small conversations with a variety of people can do wonders for you socially! If talking is awkward, you will have come out a better conversationalist through practice 📈, which can help your next interaction. If it goes well, congrats! You’ve advanced a friendship 🙂
4. Dream Big, but Don’t Forget to Live Now
It’s great to have goals and dreams, but don’t get so caught up in the future that you forget the present. Enjoy the little moments—late-night talks, spontaneous road trips, and lazy weekends because these are the memories you’ll cherish.
Photo by Jed Villejo on Unsplash [friends having fun]
To implement this, remember balance can be more fulfilling than always grinding. Try implementing the self-care tips mentioned earlier to have more balance 🙂
5. Failure Is a Stepping Stone
Failed a test? Didn’t make varsity? Got rejected? It happens. As Michael Jordan said, “I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life and that is why I succeed.”
Failure isn’t the end; it’s a stepping stone. Learn from it, grow from it, and let it propel you forward. Every setback is a setup for a comeback.
Photo by Nik on Unsplash [inspiration about failure]
Although “failures” can be hard to deal with when they are fresh, remember that you can be stronger by using them to your advantage and learning from them.
6. Social Media Is a Highlight Reel
Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat—everyone’s life looks perfect online. But remember, it’s just a highlight reel.
Photo by Artem Beliaikin on Unsplash [taking a travel picture]
People rarely post their struggles, even though lots of people have them. So, comparing your behind-the-scenes to someone else’s highlights is just not fair to you. You’re so much more than your likes and followers.
7. You’re Enough, Just as You Are
In a world that’s constantly telling you to be more, do more, and achieve more, it’s easy to feel like you’re just not quite enough.
But guess what? You can take hold of how you show up in the world. Embracing your quirks and learning to love yourself as you are right now is powerful. Personally, doing so has increased my social confidence, opportunities, and general sense of joy.
Feeling a bit more connected? Great! If you want more insights, tips, and a sprinkle of humor to brighten your day, stick around 🙂
Stay awesome, stay curious, and remember: you’ve got this. 🌟
For more relatable content, check out my other posts on navigating high school and preparing for college. Don’t forget to share this article with your friends who might need a little pick-me-up today!
Sending love,
Mer 💗