Written by: Nada Damaty

As I approach the end of my teenage years, it has hit me that during these past couple of years many changes have taken place in my life. From gaining new friends to undergoing different experiences, it all helped build the person I am today. Teenage years are ones where we develop, not only physically but mentally as well, and where we learn many valuable lessons, such as the 8 below:

 

 

  1. Surrounding yourself by good friends is crucial

 

As you experience many ups and downs during this phase of your life, having good friends who not only support you and encourage you in your moments of glory, but also help you get through your rough moments is essential. If you’re lucky enough to find such type of friends, make sure to always keep them close.

 

 

  1. Don’t trust so easily

 

As kids, we used to be very trusting of people, but in your teenage years you realize that not everyone who fakes a smile or listens to your problems is trustworthy. Eventually, it hits you that trust is very difficult to earn, but very easy to break.

 

  1. Too much of one thing is bad for you

 

You start to understand that too much leisure is negatively affective, but even so when it comes to studying. Therefore, balance is key to maintain a good lifestyle.

 

  1. It’s not the end of the world!

 

While we used to overreact to almost everything in the past, as teenagers we realize that it is not the end of the world. No, this won’t be our last love, and yes you can buy another pair of the shoes you lost. Don’t stress over things that are not worth it.

 

  1. Family is everything

 

Although your friends and your social life play a huge role in your life, at the end of the day, your family members are the ones who will always be there for you through thick and thin. No questions asked, no circumstances required.

 

  1. Your mum? Yeah, she knows a thing or two

 

Remember that friend she thought was toxic? Or that thing she advised you not to do? She was right all along, and as you grow up you begin to realize it and take her advice more often.

 

  1. Do not give in to peer pressure!

 

Yes, at the moment it may seem like the “cool” thing to do, but if you don’t feel good about it, don’t do it. Simple as that!

 

And finally…

 

  1. It’s okay to not know exactly who you are

 

In life, you will always be figuring out new things as you go along, so it’s completely normal to not know exactly who you are or what you want. Just experience what life has to offer and don’t limit yourself to the things that seem familiar.