Advice to your sixteen year old self

[teaandcustardcreamsx]

Inspired by an earlier thread on what you’d say to your 18 year old self. Obviously a lot can change between 16 and 18 and was wondering what everyone would say

You be are beautiful, stop doubting it...start doing some regular exercise.

Stop trying to get the popular kids to like you, it's not worth it and they just take the piss out of you anyway. Mind you, the penny finally dropped at 17 but an extra year of not being a complete doormat would be good.

Oh, and don't perm your hair and then try and go blonde as it's growing out! Just go straight to red and don't look back!

And your figure is great, just because you aren't built like Kate Moss does not mean you're fat.

There a plenty more fish in the sea, run a mile from the creepy guys. Stay single, just enjoy yourself. Stop trying to grow up too fast, now is the time to have fun, blink and you'll miss it.

Go back and repeat your GCSES

Honestly, it will get better. You won't spend the rest of your life flailing around in a sea of anxiety and depression.

Be proud of your body and treat her well. She’s the only one you’ve got.

Pay attention at school. Pass your exams and think about doing your A levels. Don't be persuaded to leave at 16 and start work - secretarial work is good and will make you a good living, but you could do so much more.

Go to university - don't wait until you're in your 20's and working full time before starting an OU degree. One that you won't have a chance to use before children appear.

You are not overweight. Go enjoy your life.

In one year time you will meet the love of your life. You might not end up together but he teaches you what a healthy relationship is. Don’t settle for anything less than that in your future.

Stop seeking validation from boys. Concentrate on building firm friendships and self esteem.

Don't go to that sixth form just because you can wear what you want...stay where you are. But you won't listen anyway.

It gets better, much better.

Try not to smoke, you are interesting and kind and funny, and EAT HEALTHY GODDAMIT, you won't fall asleep in the afternoon. A packet of crisps and can of coke is not lunch.

Retake your maths GCSE - you will need it for all manner of things you might fancy retraining for in your 40s.

Stop tying things around your waist to hide your bum - your bum is excellent.

Don't be afraid (or too proud) to ask for help when you need it. Especially regarding university applications, job hunting etc.
I sometimes think I still need to learn to take that advice, but I am getting a bit better at it.