Top 10 lessons that childhood taught me

1. Life goes on, with or without you, and you are completely in control of determining how you enjoy the ride.

2. As much as it is tempting, don’t gossip. Just don't because without gossip, you have more time for yourself and unnecessary problems are eliminated. Therefore, life is a little bit easier.

3. Those girls staring at you and making comments are in fact jealous of you, your mom is right. This doesn’t mean you’re the greatest gift to earth, this simply means that they see something in you that they wish they could also have. Take pride in who you are and carry yourself confidently because there’s always someone wishing they were you.

4. “When boys are mean it means they like you” – maybe, when you were five years old but it’s not the same situation when you grow up. When men are unkind, they’re either the problem at hand or they really don’t enjoy your presence. Please ladies, stop mistaking a man’s disrespectful and rude behaviour as their way of expressing themselves as ‘liking/loving’ you – they are the problem! Or maybe you’re a bit on the irritating side so don’t mistake their dismissive behaviour as them playing hard to get.

5. You will, eventually, have to grow up but don’t forget how to have fun. There’s nothing wrong with being able to throw down when it’s appropriate.

6. You don’t need only one best friend and your best friend can have other best friends too. There’s nothing wrong with having a group of (best) friends, meeting new people means you are going to be more compatible with other people and there’s nothing wrong with that. I, personally, avoid using the 'best friend' label because it tends to cause more drama than necessary.

7. Don’t trust too easily and too often, not everyone’s worst intentions are stealing your seat. Even your closest friend(s) can change - some are easily manipulated and don’t mind losing you (no matter how close you are) for something that will benefit them. Friends are family that we get to choose so do so wisely – be selfish and think of yourself first.

8. Fake it until you make it. Behave like you're a winner and as if have your life in order, don't let just anyone see you at your weakest. Showcase confidence that would intimidate you if it were displayed by someone else.

9. Music will always be a remedy.

10. Your parents do and always will know everything, especially what’s best for you.