Advice For Our Teenage Selves

As a teengaer you think you have it all sorted and it's only when you get older that we realise things are a lot more complicated.

However, we learn a lot at the same time and here's what we would tell our teenage selves.

1.Less Is More

At 15, you might think that a short skirt, crop top and a face full of make-up ensures you are looking your best but ten years on and we know better. Instead of putting it all out there, hold onto a little mystery… it wins out in the end!

2. Ugg Boots Do Not Go With Everything

Contrary to popular teenage opinion, Ugg boots are not considered appropriate footwear for every occasion. We love them when it’s perishing cold but as for wearing them on a night out, don’t do it. It’s really not a good look for anyone...ever.

3. Friends Will Change                               

Although you may find this one hard to believe, it’s true. There are a number of factors that can impact on friendships including college, moving away and dare we say it… boys. If there’s a bond worth keeping, it will find a way to survive but don’t beat yourself up if things don’t work out as planned.

4. Forgive

It’s all too easy hold grudges but we can guarantee you that you'll enjoy life more if you let things go. It makes you the better person. Hating that girl because she shifted your first boyfriend at the local disco really doesn’t get you very far and we all know what they say about karma…

5. That Boy Won’t Matter

As a teenager you feel as if you’ll never meet someone you like again which is why the first break-up hurts so very much. We now know that there is life after your first love even if it feels like forever before you can move on. Just remember, he’s not the be all and end all. There will be others!

6. Glitter In Moderation

The inner magpie in us seems to think the more sparkle the better and believe us, that doesn’t change much as you grow older. However, we are choosier about where we wear our sparkles… for example a bling statement necklace is right on trend but a glitter halter neck is never ever okay.

7. Your Mam Is Practically Always Right

As annoying as this is to admit, it’s true. You may find her advice baffling or completely off-the-wall but the chances are that 99% of the time she’s on to a winner. Your instinct it to do the opposite but skip forward ten years and you’ll be ringing her up asking for advice.

8. Take Your Time

At a young age you're eager to do everything now and get ahead of the posse. It may feel like you will never finish school or go travelling or even meet Prince Charming. Once you hit your twenties, time passes all too quickly so appreciate the teenage years while you have them.

9. Smile

It’s a teenager’s prerogative to look cranky at every opportunity but we can guarantee smiling will automatically put you in a better mood. Now we’re not saying all the time, because in fairness who can keep up that pretence...but positivity will bring you a lot further than a downright negative attitude. Word.