A Letter to My High School Self

Dear High School Kaity,

I know that life is pretty tough. You got a lot going on and there's a lot of dark days. Just know that even when the skies above are overcast, the sun is still shining somewhere.

I've compiled a list of ten things that I think you might want to know. Now, I fully believe we wouldn't be me today without the bumps and missed turns taken in the past, but there are a few things that you should probably know to make the journey easier.

1. Love yourself. Every inch. Inside and Out.

2. Life gets better. Those people don't matter and, in all honesty, won't remember how they made you feel. Remove them from Facebook and get on with your life. 

3. You are allowed to say no. If people don't accept this response when you say it, let 'em go. You should only have to say it once. 

4. Take life's opportunities as they come. They are there to help mold you into a better person.

5. Learn how to save money. If you knew where I was - you would be kicking yourself. Put back anywhere from $25 - 50 per month. Or more, yo. Trust me - it'll be worth it.

6. People will break your heart; it is one of the most brutal parts of life. Do not waste time trying to win them back because they aren't worth it. They have made a decision and, however painful it is, you must let them go. Have a day to grieve. Eat as much chocolate as you want, watch sappy movies, scream, cuss, go for a walk. Then, the next day, pull yourself together, call a friend, and get out of the house. It's painful but extremely necessary.

7. Don't compare your life to others. As a great future friend of yours said to me, we all walk different paths of life and there's no problem with that. What you are doing is necessary for your own happiness. Who cares if it is not the same as someone else?

8. There is a difference between being content and being happy. Don't allow yourself to settle.

9. You are loved. 

10. Don't quit because you're not great at something instantly. Every quote you ever see about accomplishing things talks about time. When your motivation dies, that's the time to really push yourself. Practice whatever you're doing once a day until you get to where you want.

Remember, rough patches are nothing more than sandpaper that helps smooth us into better human beings. You can do this. You will make it through.

See you soon,

Kaity