Dear Teenagers,

Here’s a list of things I learned along the way:

1. You’re very likely to not have your shit together straight out of college, and that’s ok
2. You’ll know when you find your one true love. Don’t waste your time on bullshit.
3. You will fuck up, don’t beat yourself up. That’s what your early 20s are for
4. Know the difference between a true friend and a “friend”  Choose wisely.
5. Surround yourself with nothing but positive people; negativity will drag you down
6. Cherish all the genuine people you come across, they are hard to come by
7. It is NEVER okay to envy anyone. Work harder.
8. Self-analyze. Know your own strengths and weaknesses.
9. Strive to be a better person
10. Do not change for anyone. Change for yourself.
11. Thank-you notes are mandatory.
12. Read the news
13. Mind your own business, but stand up to injustices
14. Never stop learning
15. Be honest, especially to yourself

I realize I’m too young to write an advice post, and I realize I sound pretentious. That was not my intention, so I figured a list of things I wish I had known instead of an actual letter would be a compromise. As the kids in my life start graduating high school, or getting really close to it, I felt this post call to me. It got me thinking of what I want to tell them and what I wish I knew. I’m sure there are many things I have forgotten or have not experienced yet. The list will only grow with age. It’s a very interesting topic and one I enjoyed reflecting on.