For example, if you always earn As in your math classes, then math is one of your strengths! If you love to do gymnastics, then this is one of your strengths! Add anything you do well or feel like you are good at to the list. Personality traits can also be strengths, so make sure to add these, too. For example, you might include in your list that you are a kind person, that you have a lot of common sense, or that you are a loyal friend. Make sure to list everything, even if you think something might not be cool. It is important to identify everything you are good at.
For example, if you are feeling uncomfortable on the first day of school, take a few deep breaths and consider what’s making you nervous. You might feel anxious because you don’t know what to expect from your new teachers. But don’t worry! Once you remember that everyone probably feels the same way, you can start to relax again.
Start each day by giving yourself a compliment on something you tend to be self-critical about. Try saying something like, “I have beautiful hair and my skin looks amazing!” Or, you could compliment yourself on a personality trait, such as, “I have a great sense of humor!” Make time for yourself to do the things you enjoy. For example, if you like to read, make sure to set aside at least 15 minutes to read each day. Forgive yourself when you make mistakes. [4] X Research source When you make a mistake, try saying something like, “I forgive myself for that mistake. I am doing the best that I can do, and that is awesome!”
Joining a sports team or a special interest club. You could join your school’s basketball team or look into your school’s audio visual club. Exploring new music. Ask people for recommendations and check out new release playlists on Spotify to discover new music, but make sure to listen to music that you like. Don’t just listen to music other people think is cool. [5] X Research source Asking someone new to hang out. Invite the girl who sits next to you in math class to go for a walk. Or, ask the guy whose locker is across from yours to sit with you at lunch.
It helps to put away your phone when you talk to someone. This will make it much easier to focus on what they are saying. Be truly present and curious in a conversation with anyone. Make sure to really listen to what they are saying instead of planning what you want to say next. Remember to set aside judgment. Listen to the person without thinking about whether you like or agree with what they are saying. Just focus on understanding them. Avoid interrupting them. Let the person completely finish speaking before you speak. However, you can acknowledge what the speaker is saying with neutral statements, such as, “uh huh,” “yes,” and “I see. ”
Be careful not to brag when you share. For example, if someone is talking about how their family bought a speedboat, don’t mention that your family has 2 speedboats. Instead, you might say something like, “That’s awesome! I love going out on my family’s boat!”
Practice being assertive by saying “no” to something simple, such as a friend asking to borrow your favorite pair of shoes when you will need them, or your mom trying to get you to have a second helping of pancakes when you have already said you are full. Express your needs, like by saying, “I need my red heels for the party this weekend. ” And remind yourself that being assertive is healthy. Keep in mind that some people may express hurt feelings when you tell them “no. ” It is still important for you to assert yourself. If someone gets upset with you for asserting yourself, try saying something like, “I am sorry you feel that way. I am only asserting myself and my needs. ” Take a deep breath if you find it hard to assert yourself. Imagine that you’re standing up for your best friend or a family member instead of yourself to help you feel more confident.
For example, if you have a friend who often criticizes your looks and makes you feel self-conscious, you might want to spend less time with them. Instead, seek out people who compliment you and make you feel good about yourself.
Show kindness by offering to help a fellow classmate who is struggling with a math problem. Volunteer at your local homeless shelter or soup kitchen to practice being kind towards strangers.
Remember to always put on a set of clean clothes after you shower. Take an extra shower or bath whenever you get sweaty, such as on a hot day or from exercising.
If you think you need to lose or gain weight to get healthy, talk with your doctor. You should also speak with your doctor if you start to become preoccupied with your weight or diet. This may be a sign of an eating disorder. Aim for 150 minutes of physical activity per week to keep yourself healthy.
Always remember to follow your school’s dress code. If you wear uniforms to school, try wearing a vintage scrunchie, or put on a cute bracelet to add a personal flair to your look.
For example, you could try a cat eye look with eyeliner, do a smoky eye look for something dramatic, or opt for a natural makeup look. Keep in mind that whether or not you wear makeup is a personal choice. Don’t feel pressured to wear makeup if you don’t want to![11] X Research source
Keep in mind that you can always go shorter, but you can’t put hair back on after it has been cut. If you want to be cautious, don’t go more than a few inches shorter than your current cut. If you will be dyeing your hair at home, pick to a hair color that is only 1 to 2 shades darker or lighter than your current color. See a hair stylist if you want a more dramatic color change. [12] X Research source
Try to imagine a string going from the top of your head all the way down your spine is pulling you upwards. Any time you feel like you are slumping, imagine the string is taut. This should help you to maintain better posture.
Try smiling and making eye contact with students you pass in the hallway. If someone smiles and makes eye contact back, say “hello!” or “good morning!” to greet them. This small connection will help to make your day and their day a little brighter.
