Here are 32 things I want my kids to know as they grow into adults:
- I was picked on. A lot. If you are, it really sucks, but it does get better. Talk to someone about it.
- Don’t twist yourself into a pretzel for anyone. It won’t work in the long run, you will un-ravel.
- Don’t sext.
- Trust your gut.
- Don’t get a sleazy prom dress and NO bows.
- Don’t worry about anyone else’s timetable but your own.
- Be kind. It doesn’t make you weak, it makes you kind.
- Watch Friday Night Lights (the TV show). No one is better than Coach Taylor. Tami Taylor’s awesome too.
- Respect is key to a lasting relationship. It’s not first on the usual “lists,” but it should be.
- Don’t let anyone convince you that there is something wrong with you. It’s themselves they aren’t happy with.
- Loosen the sphincter a little.
- It’s not always about you.
- If you want to chop off your hair, color it purple or run a marathon, do it in your twenties.
- Take the high road and move with dignity. Mud-slinging is fun the first time, then its just dirty and hard to get off.
- Practice safe sex.
- Anything you post online is online forever. Think before you post.
- You are never stuck, if you need out, get out.
- Live in a different city before you settle down.
- If you cross paths with a member of the armed forces, stop and thank them for their service.
- Don’t let anyone put you into one box, be many things. You can be a contradiction.
- Some things are best-started young: instruments, knitting and yoga.
- Have a cheeseburger and fries. Eat ice cream and cookies. Just do it 10% of the time.
- Take care of your body. Exercise regularly, be healthy and strong.
- Don’t start smoking.
- Wear sunscreen.
- Being a parent doesn’t mean being your kid’s best friend.
- Love hard. You will get hurt, you will get over it. Then love again.
- Get a classic wedding dress, nothing trendy.
- Sometimes being pale is better than a spray tan. Sometimes not.
- Don’t try hard drugs.
- Get your eyebrows groomed regularly.
- Take care of your teeth.