If you could go back in time and tell your 18-year-old self anything, what would it be? Here’s what I’d tell myself at age 18 (but mostly I’d give her a hug and tell her she’s doing great)…
- It’s 1997 and people don’t really talk much about mental health and wellbeing, so you don’t have the first clue how to look after yours, but be kind to yourself. And talk to people about how you’re feeling.
- Being a size 14 doesn’t mean you’re fat. Please stop comparing yourself to the girls in the magazines. Definitely stop weighing yourself.
- It’s OK that you haven’t worked out who you are yet – most people you know haven’t, they’re just good at pretending they have.
- Don’t get your hair cut short like Posh Spice. You’ll regret it immediately.
- Stop trying to be mates with that popular mean girl. She pretends to be your friend, but all of those digs (“just kidding! Can’t you take a joke?”) mean she is no real friend.
- Don’t blow your student overdraft in Miss Selfridge. It won’t make you feel less miserable. You can’t shop your way out of misery.
- Maybe don’t pluck your eyebrows quite so much… or you know, DO, if it makes you happy.
- Have more confidence in yourself – you’re actually a really cool human even though you feel like the opposite.
- Crispy pancakes and potato waffles isn’t a well-rounded meal. Eat something green!
- It’s OK if a Backstreet Boys song is your favourite, you don’t have to pretend to love The Chemical Brothers.
