What I Wish I Could Scream at Teenage Me: 15 Things I Wish I Knew at 15
Hi friends!
15-year-old me was wearing glitter eyeliner, crying over a boy who wore Axe body spray, and thought her worth depended on thigh gaps and GPA scores. She needed a wake-up call… not a Pinterest quote. So, here’s what I’d tell her…
Fifteen-year-old me thought being skinny, nice, and quiet was the goal. I was exhausted, hungry, and lying to everyone. Looking back, I remember those days vividly. It was like I was constantly trying to keep pace in a race I didn’t even sign up for. The high school drama, friendships that sometimes felt fragile as glass, and that ever-present question looming in my mind, “What do I want to be when I grow up?” It was overwhelming.
Me with baby Elvis when I was 15, the perpetrator himself!!
I wasn’t living — I was performing. And for what? Applause from people I don’t even remember now?
Well… sort of…
SUPER EMBARRESSING STORY TIME: So, there was this one morning I woke up late — my bus came at 5 a.m., and it’s DARK in Massachusetts in the winter. I grabbed my jacket off the floor without thinking. It was this heavy wool coat with a thick lining. Foreshadowing.
I get on the bus, sit down, and bam — the smell hits me. But there’s no way it’s me, right?! My cat’s never peed outside the litter box, and the kid behind me? Well, he had a… stinky reputation…. So I’m all like, “Cool, must be him.”
Fast forward to breakfast in the cafeteria, and my high-school boyfriend finally let me know, “Uh… that smell? Yeah, that’s coming from you...”
I legit freaked out. Ran to my culinary classroom (even though it was an academic week) and begged my teacher for a white button-up from the dining room uniforms. Then I ducked into the locker room for a shower because I felt so disgusting.
Oh, and did I mention? This all happened the same day as a big women’s leadership event field trip for the top tenth-grade girls at some fancy college. I met Hillary Clinton and Aly Raisman and probably some other important ladies who I’ve since blocked from my memory because, honestly, I was convinced I still smelled like cat pee the whole time.
Moral of the story? Sometimes life hands you a stinky jacket and a humbling moment, but you still gotta show up and pretend you don’t want to crawl into a hole. Also, maybe check your coat before you leave the house.
SO. LOL. Here’s a collection of insights and lessons I wish I’d known at 15. Whether you’re dealing with high school drama, figuring out your future, or simply wondering if anyone else has felt as lost as you do, I’m here to share what I wish someone had told me way back when.
Please, Just Focus on Your Future
Looking back, I used to think my entire purpose revolved around impressing everyone around me. It seemed like that was the ultimate goal, right? But here’s a hard truth I’ve learned: what truly matters is what you want to build for your future. It’s so easy to slip into the habit of chasing after what looks good on paper or what brings a smile of approval from friends and family. But when you dig deep and uncover what genuinely excites you—what ignites that little spark inside—that’s where the real fulfillment lies. Trust me on this: don’t waste your precious time worrying about what others think. The more energy you pour into their opinions, the further you wander from your true path. Please take a moment to reflect on what you want, envision that future, and start taking steps toward it. Remember, your journey is yours alone, so make it count!
Boys Aren't Everything (Trust Me on This One)
If I could sit down and have a heart-to-heart with my younger self, I'd shake her gently and say, “Listen up—boys are not the answer to all your problems.” It’s so tempting to seek validation from others, especially when it comes to romantic interests, but I can assure you that chasing that kind of approval only drains your energy and diverts your focus. Instead, prioritize building a solid relationship with yourself. Really invest in self-love because that is the foundation for all healthy relationships. Learning to appreciate and nurture yourself will naturally attract the right people into your life. It’s liberating to realize that you are enough just as you are. So, focus on your happiness first, and watch how the right relationships flourish around you.
Be Kind—But Don't Let People Walk All Over You
Kindness is a beautiful thing in a world that can sometimes feel harsh. We’re all navigating this life for the first time, and virtually everyone deserves kindness. But here’s the kicker: you can be kind while establishing firm boundaries. Caring about others doesn’t mean you have to allow them to take advantage of your time, energy, or kindness. Learning how to say “no” is a vital skill; it might feel uncomfortable at first, but trust me, it can save you from a heap of unnecessary stress. Protecting your peace should be a priority. Think of it like this: when you set boundaries, you’re not just taking care of yourself but also showing others how to treat you. Striking that balance of kindness and self-protection is essential for well-being. As you navigate your relationships, remember that you have every right to guard your energy—it’s precious!
Life Doesn't End in Your Twenties
Can we chat for a second about the pressure to “live fast” during our teens and twenties? It can honestly feel like you're sprinting through life, and I get it—social media makes it seem like everyone is out there living their best life. But here’s a friendly reminder: it’s okay to slow down. Some of the most beautiful experiences unfold when we take the time to breathe, reflect, and learn at our own pace. Think of life as a journey rather than a race. Instead of constantly trying to tick off milestones, embrace those moments of quiet reflection. You might find that those pauses are when you truly learn and grow.
Embrace What You Love, Even If It Doesn't Make Sense
Whether painting, singing, acting or even something quirky like collecting vintage comic books, treasure what ignites that fire in you! I wish I had committed to my passions earlier—now I’m playing catch-up to reincorporate them into my daily life. It’s essential to nurture those interests, even if they seem impractical or no one around you understands them. Pursuing what makes you feel alive is not just a pastime; it’s essential for your mental well-being. So, if you’ve got a hobby that makes your heart sing, hold onto it with both hands!
Don’t Worry So Much About People's Opinions
People love to have a say about everything, don’t they? There’s that saying, “Fake it 'til you make it,” which may not be the worst advice since people will always have their views. Instead of trying to please everyone, focus on building a version of yourself that you can be genuinely proud of. Invest time in what brings you joy and fulfillment. At the end of the day, it’s essential to look in the mirror and feel happy with the person staring back at you. That’s what counts! Your life is your unique journey, so embrace it wholeheartedly and don’t shy away from sharing your story. It’s a beautiful one, and the world deserves to see it!
My senior photos
Take Care of Your Health
I know everyone says it, but seriously, health is wealth. It's easy to brush this off, especially when you're young, but your choices now set the stage for the future. Eating well, getting outdoors, moving your body, and allowing yourself to rest aren't just indulgences; they're essentials. Think of it as investing in your future self. It's not about restrictions or dogged obsessions; it's about giving yourself the best shot at a life that feels vibrant and genuinely fulfilling. Remember, those small, daily choices add up. So, whether it's opting for a salad instead of fries or taking that evening walk, you're building a foundation for a happy, energetic life.
You Can Handle Almost Anything
Me with my Dad before my first prom
Life can feel like a relentless rollercoaster, often throwing curveballs when you least expect them. But here's the kicker: 99% of the time, you will be okay. The bumps are merely challenges, and almost everything pales compared to the truly hard stuff, like losing someone you love. When I lost my dad, I realized there are some hills you can't just climb over and keep going. But for everything else, trust in your ability to navigate through. You are capable and strong, even when it feels overwhelming.
Choose Friends Wisely
Let's talk about friendships because they shape so much of our experience. Some friends are lifers, and others are just there to be part of a chapter in your story. It's vital to hold onto those who lift you higher and are there during the highs and the lows. Don't be afraid to let go of friendships that drain your energy or leave you feeling less than you are. Surrounding yourself with people who genuinely support your growth uplifts you and paves the way for incredible experiences. Life is too short to invest energy in relationships that don't nourish your spirit.
Don't Waste Time on What Doesn't Matter
Let me be real for a second: life is way shorter than we often think. Time is the one asset we can't get back, so spend it wisely. Focus on people and activities that make you feel alive rather than trying to fit into molds set by others. Reflecting on my life, I recognize how much time I spent on things that offered little value or joy. So, prioritize what truly matters and let go of the noise. You'll be surprised at how liberating that is!
Don't Try So Hard to Fit In
I've had my share of awkward moments trying to fit in with people who didn't care about me or my true self. The pressure to conform can be intense, but here's the truth: just be you. The right people will gravitate toward your authenticity. When you pretend to be someone else, you often end up feeling lost or, worse, isolated. Embrace your uniqueness; it's your greatest asset!
Ah, yes, the things that really matter, Snapchat before graduating LOL
You Don't Need to Party Hard
Looking back, I wish I had spent less time in the party scene, trying to chase fun in ultimately draining ways. There is nothing wrong with enjoying life, but let it be in ways that don't make you lose touch with who you are. Find people who love to connect and share laughter without the need for alcohol or loud clubs. Those genuine connections blossom into memories that really matter.
Stretching Is Your Friend
It might sound basic, but seriously, stretch! Your body will thank you. Staying flexible—both in your body and your mindset—can do wonders for your overall well-being. It's one of those overlooked practices that can help reduce stress, improve your posture, and leave you feeling more relaxed. Just give yourself a few minutes. You'll be amazed at how much better you can feel after a good stretch.
It's Never Too Late to Achieve Your Dreams
Let's be clear: dreams don't have an expiration date. Whether you're 15, 25, or a bit beyond that, the only thing that matters is your willingness to pursue what makes you happy. I promise you that every little step you take counts. Even if it feels slow, it's still progress. Don't let anyone tell you it's too late to chase after your passions; trust that every journey starts with a single step.
The Freedom That Comes with Financial Independence
This topic might seem like a far-off concept when you're young, but the earlier you grasp it, the better off you'll be. Financial independence isn't just about having money; it's the freedom to make choices that enrich your life. Even saving a little each month can open up a world of opportunities. Whether it's for a class, a trip, or pursuing a passion project, having that financial cushion is genuinely liberating. Get into the habit of tracking your spending and understanding budgeting; it's a game-changer. Remember, compare yourself to no one but your past self. You're building a foundation of independence that will serve you well.
Top 5 Things I Wish I Knew at 15:
You can be the ripest, juiciest peach, and someone’s still gonna say they hate peaches.
Shrinking yourself won’t make you safer, it’ll just make you invisible.
Your body is not a problem to be fixed. Period.
People who judge you now? Won’t even make it to your blocked list in a few years.
“Too much” girls run the world. Don’t ever quiet down.
One thing I'd love to remind you of is that no one else's opinions hold any weight unless you let them. Seriously! Your journey is uniquely yours, and it's so important to honor that. Surround yourself with people who lift you and share similar values; they can make all the difference. On that note, never underestimate the power of self-care—mentally, physically, and financially. Investing in yourself is never a wasted effort.
And let's remember to focus on what genuinely brings you joy! Life is far too short to be anything but happy, so chase after those things that light a fire in your soul. Hold onto your passions, dreams, and the things and people making you smile. Remember, being vulnerable and reaching out when you need support is okay. We're all in this together, so let's make the most of our journeys.
What’s one thing you wish you could go back and tell your teenage self? Leave it in the comments — someone scrolling might need it someday. If you want more insights and life lessons, sign up for our free monthly newsletter here for exclusive tips and updates.
