#DearMe

The #DearMe movement that's going around the Internet this week is an example of a social media campaign I can absolutely get behind. Inspiring each other to embrace our strengths and love ourselves through positive thinking and encouragement? Sign me up!

So, in anticipation of International Women's Day and also because it's a rad idea, here is some advice I would give my 17-year-old self, a girl just about to graduate high school and embark on adulthood:

If you don't want to watch the vid, here's the gist:

• Don't put so much pressure on yourself to be cool. The "popular" kids may seem like they're having a lot of fun but they also have a lot of insecurities and are actually pretty rude so stick with the friends that actually want to hang out with you and love you despite your nerdy tendencies and dumb jokes.
• True friendships are a two-way street. Give your friends a call more often and reach out when they're having a hard time. Stop thinking about yourself so much and be a little kinder than you have to.
• Your weight will continue to be an issue but you'll learn to love yourself anyway and learn to dress better. It can be hard at college where all the girls are stick-model gorgeous but being fat actually helps you find true friends. Believe me.
• Don't be so afraid to go brunette. It looks fabulous.
• Work hard and save your money, but don't be afraid to be spontaneous and travel.
• It's okay that you don't know what to do with your life or what your major will be. That will all come in time and you'll love it.
• Being competitive is annoying and pointless. Just do you and don't worry about getting better grades or internships than your peers because that way of thinking will just depress you. Besides, you'll end up getting awesome grades and internships.
• It's okay to have doubts. Just don't focus on them or you'll end up bitter.
• You'll learn to be much more open-minded and embracing of different people and cultures and ways of life and this will make you a better person, despite what people may say.
• Maybe you should learn to cook more recipes. I regret this.
• I know you hate sharing your emotions and feelings but don't be afraid to be vulnerable. It helps people connect with you.
• Don't think twice about moving to New York City. 
• You are smart. You are pretty. You are important. You're gonna be more than okay. 

17-year-old Chelsey who still has much to learn