Things I Wish I Knew When I Was 16

The things we wish we knew at 16 can still help any girl navigate life at any age and become the woman they want to be.

To my 16-year-old self, There’s nothing like being 16. You’re not too old to stop gushing over your boy band crushes, but also not too young to start buying a concert ticket when they’re in town. Even if you are not aware of it, you’re learning how to balance carefree ways with responsible ones. This age is indeed the sweet spot.  

16 is also a time to getting to know the world around you. And because you’re opening up on many fronts, you’ll be exposed to many people, things, and activities asking for your attention. There will be confusing, conflicting, and overwhelming emotions. The thoughts rushing through your head can beat the record of the fastest Olympian.  

Spoiler alert: life’s always going to be like that. You’ll only learn how to adapt better. Don’t worry, you have the support you need. And with these quick lessons on navigating your mid- teens, you’ll be picking up tools that you can use and refine until adulthood.  

Self-Care Is Not Selfish  

Take the time to be alone with yourself. It can range from 15 minutes in the shower to one full weekend at your grandparents’ place. Understand that the world won’t stop turning when you’re away. But the world will also need you back at your best — refreshed and ready for another round of commitments.  

Your Insecurities Don’t Diminish Your Value  

Your age is a vulnerable period because you might feel judged and attacked as you venture out. Know that you’ll come face-to-face with your insecurities by way of people’s opinions. So, when  

you feel small, don’t repeat the diminishing words you hear. Speak kind, gentle words to yourself instead. It might feel awkward at first. But one day, you’ll start believing either the positive or negative. Bet on the positive.  

Appearances Aren’t Everything  

It’s okay to doll up and look good for the ‘gram. It’s more fulfilling, though, to grow up healthy inside and out. You may not be thinking about the long run now, but what matters, in the end, is that you thrive. You’ll need a healthy mind, a healthy body, and even a healthy bank account. It’s not too early to start working on these goals. So follow social accounts that can help you achieve them.  

Balancing Is Part Of Being  

Balancing is like riding a bicycle. You keep pedaling until you get where you want to go. Stop pedaling, you stumble. It won’t be easy balancing your academics, family relationships, friendships, and other interests. But you have to find a way to keep things running, sometimes roughly, sometimes smoothly. Don’t stop until you reach your desired destination.  

It’s Alright to Ask for Help  

At 16, it’s so important to be surrounded by the right people. When you’re struggling in any area, such as school or love life or mental health, reach out to adults and peers you trust. You don’t have to deal with all the insecurities and issues alone. Likewise, you don’t have to celebrate small and big wins by yourself.  

Feeling protected allows you to become the woman you want to be. And this need can extend to feeling safe and secure with the products you use. Round up your daily self-care routine with pH Care. It's specially formulated with a pH level of 5 to delicately cleanse and protect your feminine area. It's safe to use every day!  

Feel secure while going through sweet 16 with the right people, tools, and products. The same goes for you even if you’re 23 or 32. No matter what age you’re in, you’re better off having someone who's #GoLangGirl!