This one is for all my girls out there who are looking for answers. If you are about to enter high school, or even still in middle school, here’s some advice that you need to listen to.

(I’ve been inspired to write this by one of the girls at my church who has openly come to me for leadership about the new things, feelings, and pressures that she has been experiencing. I know that as a pre-teen, I didn’t have quite the direction that I needed, and so I felt lost and unsure what to expect from life in general. I don’t want y’all to feel like that. So, I’m going to give you some advice and life lessons that you need to learn while still young.)

1. Wash your face EVERY SINGLE DAY/NIGHT.

Trust me, you’ll thank me later. While all the other freshmen girls are suffering from severe acne, your skin will be practically glowing with health.

2. Don’t stress about boys. You’ve got your whole life ahead of you!

I know, you’re experiencing all of those new emotions; all of a sudden, seeing a super-cute guy gives you butterflies and you feel all warm inside. Go ahead and enjoy that feeling, but don’t let it get to your head and make you believe it’s love.

3. When you get older, go only after guys who are slightly older than you; no more than 4 years older.

Any boy that is younger than you will always, always, be more immature than you, and you don’t have time to deal with that. Boys mature slower than girls; it’s simple facts. But again, only use this rule when you are in college, don’t date college guys while in high school.

4. SAVE YOUR MONEY!!

I cannot emphasize this enough: SAVE SAVE SAVE. It may seem lame now, but trust me, you’ll thank me later. I blew so much money during middle/high school, and what did it get me? NOTHING. Save it, girl.

5. If you’re gonna use makeup, be moderate. Don’t clown yourself up.

Don’t try to cover up who you are with an inch-thick layer of makeup. It doesn’t work and it just brings more attention to yourself. Go for a more natural look and your skin will thank you for it.

6. Spend a little extra on the higher-quality makeup

Don’t get the cheap stuff, because they’ve got all these nasty chemicals that wreak havoc on your pores. Splurge a bit on the good stuff (Avon is actually a very good source for skin-friendly makeup).

7. Work out often.

Your metabolism won’t be this great forever; getting into the habit now will save you tons of stress in the future, and it’ll make you feel great, too.

8. Get engaged in school activities.

So what if you’re still in middle school/early high school? The earlier you get involved, the more impressive you’ll look on your college applications. They look for leadership roles, so don’t be content to stay on the sidelines; get in there and get involved! College will be here before you know it!

9. Finally, never let God out of your sight, not even for a minute.

You can never have enough Jesus juice. For those moments when you are feeling lost, alone, or just plain depressed, God will always whisper to your heart what you need to hear. He’s the best adviser for these tough years.

Feel free to respond with any questions you may have about life, problems, anything. I’m always willing to listen, girls, and I know how difficult it can be talking to your mom about boys.

Stay classy, girls.

❤ Kristin