There was a post in our private group on Facebook, The Flock, asking members for their three pieces of life advice for 18 year olds, most especially young women: daughters, nieces, granddaughters, friends.
What would you say? Here’s what our group members suggested. Some real gems here!
Do not let the misogyny of the world ever change your femininity. Celebrate and uplift other women. Enjoy your life, including the not so wonderful bits. From Jojo S.
Be brave, be funny, be yourself. You are better than you think you are. From Helen H.
Don't care so much about what other people think of you. Say YES to as many different experiences as possible. Read books about everything! They will expand your vocabulary, imagination and understanding of the world. From Stephanie K.
Always be open to friends of any age. Develop competency in many things. Being competent also includes recognising when you need to hire a professional. Look at people you know or who've met in the course of your life who you admire. Emulate them. Soon you'll be admirable in your own right. From Han D.
If a relationship is ‘hard work’, it’s a warning sign. (It is not a sign you need to work harder.) Don’t hide yourself and your feelings for other people. Being angry is a good thing! Find work that makes your heart sing. From Rachel J.
You’re better looking and thinner than you think! Just enjoy life and do stuff. From Paula B.
Smash the patriarchy. From Rachel V.
You are more beautiful right now than you will ever know. Don't waste your time on people who don't get you. Stop self sabotaging. From Rachel G.
Surround yourself with people who raise you up and are positive about your journey. Everyone is feeling their way through life (blagging it), they know no better than you, you might just resonate with their experiences which will make sense to you. Laugh as much as possible! From Rhona E.
Pay attention to your own pleasure. Use your voice. Don’t rush to choose a career, take your time. From Walker T.
Never suppress a generous urge. Always say yes to adventure. Don’t sweat the petty things and don’t pet the sweaty things. From Barbara C.
Travel. Be interested in everyone. Don't live your life for other people. From Alexander W.
Be curious, unafraid, and take chances. From Teresa D.
Don’t marry the first person who asks you unless you’ve seen them angry. With work, if you can’t do something that makes your heart sing, at least make sure you have that in your life elsewhere. Be aware of your privilege.... particularly of colour, and ability. Be an ally to everyone else and listen to their lived experience humbly. From Boo S.
What’s your best advice for 18 year olds? What would you like to have known when you were 18?
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Last Updated on September 12, 2022 by Editorial Staff
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