As my daughter approaches her tween years, there are several important life lessons I’d like her to carry with her as she evolves into a young woman. Here are 16 key insights that I hope will stick with her:
- Fast food isn’t the only option. With a few ingredients and a little effort, you can whip up something delicious from scratch—even a delightful whipped cream that only takes three ingredients and five minutes to make. Sure, a quick box of mac and cheese can be a lifesaver after a tough day, but don’t forget to toss in some frozen peas to make Grandma proud!
- Those super cheerful folks in ads and commercials are getting paid to smile. If you don’t truly want what they’re selling—and honestly, you probably don’t—feel free to ignore it.
- Whether I’m listening to music, glued to a soccer match, or even half-asleep, your voice is always my priority. Just remember, if you wake me up to say you’re hungry, we might have a problem!
- A stable job can pay the bills, but don’t hesitate to pursue what brings you joy. Life is too short to settle for anything less than happiness in your career.
- Sometimes your heart might lead you off course, but every direction it takes you can be valuable.
- You will meet some unpleasant people along the way—they’re the exceptions, not the rule. Try not to let the negativity of a few taint your view of everyone else.
- Despite what the media often shows, the good in the world always outweighs the bad.
- Strive to make life easier for everyone around you. This means treating service workers kindly, leaving your hotel room tidy, and putting your shopping cart away. Seriously, don’t be lazy—just walk those extra few feet!
- The little moments matter more than we might realize; they keep the world turning.
- Your passion for reading will open doors, but it’s also perfectly fine to enjoy the movie adaptations of your favorite stories—just remember, the book is often better!
- College will always be there, but your childhood is fleeting. Please don’t rush off with some guy to “find yourself.” I’ve invested too much in your upbringing for you to take that cliché path.
- You don’t need alcohol to be cool, relaxed, or interesting. Your true self is already remarkable.
- If people are gossiping about you, it just shows how intriguing you are compared to them.
- Love sports as much as any boy does, and don’t feel pressured to wear the pink version of your favorite team’s gear.
- Interests like science, math, sports, and even comic books are for everyone—don’t let stereotypes limit what you enjoy.
- If you have a strong passion for something, don’t hesitate to fight for your place at the table. Elbow your way in, darling!
Surely, there are countless other valuable lessons I wish to share as my daughters transition into adulthood. In this ever-changing world, it’s vital to recognize that being a young woman today comes with both challenges and opportunities. As we navigate these complexities together, I remind them to hold on to the belief that goodness prevails over the bad in the world.
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Summary
This piece outlines 16 key lessons I hope to instill in my tween daughter as she grows. From the value of homemade meals to the importance of kindness and pursuing her passions, each insight aims to guide her toward a positive and fulfilling future.