Consider shaving and plucking hair. This optional step can help prevent excess sweating. Shower every 1-2 days. Most girls shower daily in middle school. You should shower if you feel gross or your hair is oily, because it might mean you’re smelly too. Wash your face using facial soap so it doesn’t clog your pores. If you struggle with acne, try a special soap or face wipe. Wear deodorant every day. You can try a little perfume, but don’t wear too much or it will bother people.
If you try foundation, make sure it matches your skin color, and blend it carefully. If they don’t have your color but have both a darker and a lighter color, then buy both and mix them together. For lipstick and lip gloss, start with something close to your natural lip color.
Try learning the basics of how to match colors. Learning a little color theory can help you pick fun outfits. To look extra stylish, try pairing a loose piece of clothing with something tight. For example, you might wear a tighter top with a loose skirt and jacket.
Stay hydrated for better skin and health. Try to fill at least 1/3 of your plate with fruits and vegetables. A plant-based diet is good for you, so consider cutting back on meat and dairy. Limit your desserts to something small once a day. Try eating it slowly so you can savor it more. Exercise for a healthy glow. Find a few types of exercise you really enjoy. Try taking walks with friends or family regularly. Get lots of sleep. Your body and brain need rest to grow, so get 8-10 hours of sleep every night. Following a routine can help. This will help boost your mood and your brainpower too.
Don’t start relying on caffeine, especially at such a young age. If you’re having trouble waking up in the morning, that means you aren’t going to bed early enough. Don’t start smoking or vaping. It’s hard to be pretty if you and your clothes smell bad, and you can get health problems. Remember that marijuana is a drug too. You could face serious side effects, especially since you’re still young and growing. Getting high can also make you do foolish things, and in the age of social media videos, those bad decisions can stick with you for a long time.
When your friends are talking about someone else, choose your words kindly. Don’t say anything that you wouldn’t be okay with that person hearing. If you’re mad, walk away before you say something you’d regret.
Taking a genuine interest in other people will give you and aura of approachability and make it easier to connect with people.
“I’m sorry to hear you’re going through that. " “That sounds really difficult. " “Of course you felt nervous. Lots of people have trouble going up on stage like that. " “I’m here for you. "
Skip bad habits like name-calling, needless arguing, and saying bad things about people behind their backs. If someone’s behavior really bothers you, talk to them respectfully using “I” language to describe your feelings. See if you can find a resolution together. If using “I” language doesn’t work, then maybe you need help from an adult. Find a trusted adult and let them know what’s going on. Ask them if they can help you fix it.
Don’t let friends pressure you, either. If they ask, say “Nobody has caught my eye yet” or “I don’t think I’m ready. " Don’t date someone who doesn’t respect you. If your date pressures you, calls you names, or treats you like dirt, then dump them.
Make time for things that make you smile, even if it’s as simple as watching a cute puppy video before bed. Of course, nobody is happy all the time. When you’re upset, try asking your friends if they can be there for you.
Try not to get anything lower than a C. If you’re really struggling in school, don’t keep it a secret. Instead, tell your teacher, family, or guidance counselor. Ask for help. They can help you make a plan.
