What advice would I give to my teenage self? Every day I walk into a classroom of teenagers, and every day I remember how I felt when I was their age. Every day I think about the mountain of distractions which preoccupied my mind, the millions of things which seemed like the most important thing in the world. So what would say to myself? What could I say that I would hear?

1. Everything is going to be ok.
2. Never stop writing, it will continue to be your refuge and your catharsis.
3. Continue to embrace the things that give you joy, regardless of what anyone else things. As you get older, you will care less, and you will have never compromised your joy.
4. Study more. It’s not just about the knowledge, it’s about building the skill and the rigor.
5. Be honest. With yourself and with others. It will save you and others a lot of pain.
6. Comparison is dangerous. You have your own gifts and talents. Others may excel in areas you envy, but you are not them, their path is not yours, and you are who are you are meant to be as long as you are true to yourself.
7. Get more organized. I know your brain is a hodgepodge of a million different things, but you will save yourself so many headaches if you come up with systems earlier in life.
8. Trust your instincts. If something seems off, you’re probably right.
9. Treasure your friendships. They get harder to maintain the older you get.
10. Remember to be thankful. Even in the darkness, there is always something you can find to be grateful for, and it will keep you afloat when you feel like your drowning. On the other hand, there’s a lot to be said for a good cry.

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