10 Things You Wish You Knew at 15

Looking back at my 15-year-old self I'm made to think about the advice that would have helped me to learn and grow the most. Most of it, someone did tell me, but you listen and never truly "hear" until you hit adulthood and sometimes parenthood. It hardly ever happens during those teenage years, not until you gather the wisdom and growth from learning some things on your own. And I firmly believe that some things can't be taught. Some things you have to find and learn on your own. It is essential for growth.

I was lucky to have the chance to grow up in a small town, which gave me many extra opportunities. Not that I took advantage of them. Of course, small town school have downsides are well. But I had a rather blessed experience in that aspect. Although looking back, I certainly could have done a better job at enjoying those teenage years.

Here are the ten pieces of advice I would give myself at 15.

School and education should be first and foremost. It's not enough to say it if you don't believe it and live it. Stay home, no parties, and study! There's plenty of time to live an adult life, when you are an adult.

There really are a lot of fish in the sea. Guys shouldn't factor in too much until you are much, much older.

Don't worry about what people think and don't stress over things that you can't change. You can't please all the people all of the time. Be the best you that you can be, and let people think what they think. Because you can't change people's false opinions and there's no point in trying.

Participate in more extra-curricular activities at school. This is the time to make memories to tell your kids. Participate in social activities that can give you the kind of friends who will last the rest of your life. Being a part of something is good for the soul and essential for growth.

Every choice you make defines you. One small decision impacts who you are and who people think you are. Chose wisely.

There's more to life than boys! Way more!

There are consequences for every action. That single moment that seems like no big-deal will one day be a big deal. Don't make hasty decisions or feel that something isn't important, because every moment defines you.

People never forget so treat them well. No one wants to be judged their entire lives for a decision they made at 15. There are a few people I could have been nicer to.

Be kind to everyone, even if they aren't to you. Be the bigger person. Just because someone is rude to you doesn't mean that you should reciprocate their hate.

Make the best memories you can because these are the best days of your life. No matter how good your life is, as an adult you can't help but look back and think wow I should have appreciated my youth. I should have took advantage of being young, I should have made better memories, and I should have enjoyed being a kid. Should have is not enough. Look back with fond memories! It's your choice as to the type of memories you make.

Sources:
My Perspective