Letters To Sixteen #4

Today's guest blogger is the lovely Philippa.

Philippa is mum to two boys (3 and 6 months) and can be found at {Letters to Elliot}

To 16 year old Me,

Hi. Rather bizarrely this is 33 year old You talking. Thought I'd write to let you know a few things and to enlighten you on what's important, and what's really not important, over the next few years.

Before I start I think it's good for you to know that my (our?) mindset has always been that everything happens for a reason, so all the stuff coming your way is just stuff you need to ride out. Ok? You'll have lots of fun along the way so it's really not all bad, honest.

If I can offer some advice though, it would be the following:

- don't worry about not doing so well in A levels, you'll get a good Uni place anyway, and do well there too, though maybe not where you first thought (remember everything happens for a reason..) 

- you'll do French at Uni so start practicing those verbs now. You'll get to spend a year in France. Please make the most of this year, you'll regret it aged 33 if you don't (believe me!)

- you'll make friends that will last forever, and some that won't. Don't beat yourself up about this. Some people just come into your life for a short time for a specific reason. Be grateful for their friendship but don't drag it out if it's not making you happy. 

- on a similar subject, you don't meet the man you'll marry until after your MA, so don't let anyone else make you think otherwise in the meantime. If I were you (or me?) again, I'd not be worried about meeting someone. You'll meet your husband through a friend so invest in your friendships.

- exercise. It makes you feel good. Honest. You won't think this sometimes but it's true and your future self will appreciate the effort!

- you are beautiful. Please believe this. There will be times when your body gets put through things (pregnancy, labour, c-sections!) that will make you feel a bit yuck and leave you in a different state to where you are now. Make the most of your beautiful self now. I know you think your tummy needs toning but honestly, it's amazing as it is. Get that bikini out at any possible opportunity!!

- spend time with your family. Especially grandparents. You'll miss them when they're not there. 

- eat healthy and drink lots of water. Oh, and wear sun cream also.

Most of all remember to call your mum!

Love, 

You (aged 33)

Xx

Check out Philippa's links:

{Twitter} 

{Blog}