Byron, Birkin, & Burch

Good morning everyone! This is just a disclaimer that this post will stray from the normal fashion and beauty content that I normally post. However, I do believe it to be important so stick around!

A few days ago my younger brother graduated from high school and I couldn't have been more proud. As I saw him walk across the stage I teared up with pride that he was my brother. Not only that, but the strongest young man I have come across. His ambition is inspiring and I wish you all could know what he has gone through to get to this point. He amazes me everyday and I love him dearly.

Amongst those thoughts were some more personal as I reminisced over my four years of high school. I will be a junior in college this fall and let's just say I have learned a lot in the past two years. Sometimes I wish I could go back in time and tell myself things that would have really gotten me through and today that is what I would like to do. Maybe I can help some of you who are in the midst of your high school career or just starting. So here goes nothin!

1. No one will remember the "popular clique"- I hate to admit it, but being popular was at the top of my priority list in high school. But let's face it, being popular isn't what's important. What's important is finding a lovely group of friends who support you and better you. So stop worrying about being popular and find those people who let you be you!

2. Don't compare yourself- This sounds like pretty typical advice, but so little of us take it! I remember looking at the other girls in my class and wishing I had their hair or their body. But guess what? I can't change that. Embrace what God gave you because it's beautiful. Keep telling yourself that.

3. Study hard- Now I don't want to sound too much like a mom, but this is crucial. A lot of times I just blew off my high school classes because why did they matter? But oh they do matter. Doing well means getting a great education that will set you up with opportunities to chase your dreams. Go get em!

4. Be kind- Kindness is free. I always loved when a classmate or a friend gave me a small compliment during the school day. You will be amazed at how great it makes you feel! Make someone else's day and in turn you will make your own.

5. Say thank you- Give gratitude to your teachers, parents, friends and whoever deserves it. They all work so hard to make sure that you are doing well. I wish I could go back and thank my parents for pushing me and making me who I am today.

6. You don't know everything- I always thought I had everything figured out in high school, but boy was I wrong! Listen to the advice people give you and take it into serious consideration, they are just trying to help.

7. Learn to let go- I always thought that friends would stay in my life forever, but sometimes they don't. And that is perfectly ok. You have to learn to close the door and open a window. Just because they aren't in your life anymore doesn't mean that the time you shared with them was any less special.

8. Branch out- Sadly, I stayed to the same group of friends in high school. Don't be afraid of the people who are unlike yourself. Everyone has a story and one of the many wonders in life is hearing those stories and getting to know people.

9. Stand up for what you believe in- I have always been shy and slow to share my opinions about things, but don't be afraid to voice what you think. When a topic comes up that makes your heart pound with excitement or anger, that's passion! Take that passion and express it to your classmates in a polite manner. It always feels better to speak your mind (nicely). :)

10. Find joy in every detail- Finally my last bit of advice. In my opinion happiness and joy are different things. Happiness is the fleeting feeling you get on a day to day basis. Joy on the other hand comes from the soul. Only certain things in life bring it out, but once you find it you are in for a treat. Find joy in every day. Life is precious.

I don't have any regrets regarding my four years in high school, but sometimes I do wish that I could go back and remind myself that the sun will rise every day, so don't sweat the small stuff.

Go find your joy and have a grand day.