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How to handle being shorter (or taller) than your friends

Between middle school and high school, most girls go through growth spurts. These periods of rapidly-changing height can take a lot of adjustment, whether it's awkwardly bending to have coversations, or constantly standing on tiptoe during class pictures. When a you're a different height from *all* of your friends, it can be especially frustrating. Though it's easy to feel like the odd one out, there's no need to worry. Here are some ways to learn to embrace it: 

1. Remember that everyone grows at a different rate. Just because you're shorter or taller than the rest of your classmates now doesn't mean things will stay the same. In a couple years from now, it could be the complete opposite or it might even out. Don't worry, you've got plenty of time. 

2. Write down all the amazing things about your height. Sometimes, you just don't realize how great something is because we tend to fixate on the negatives. Marking your thoughts down on paper can be surprisingly helpful. When you first start writing, it may be hard to come up with a list of "positives." However, once you start brainstorming, it will become much easier to see the advantages of being 5'0 or 6'0.

3. Know that everyone around you feels awkward too. Ask anyone who's graduated high school--the middle and early high school years are a universally uncomfortable time. When you trip over your own feet or can't reach the book on the shelf, it can feel like you're the most gawky person in the room. But you can find some peace remembering that your classmates are feeling the exact same way.

4. Being different is a *good* thing. Diversity, in all its forms, is something to embrace. After all, it is our differences that make the world such a beautiful, interesting place. Your height is just another trait that makes you unique. It doesn't matter if you're petite, tall or somethere in the middle. Instead of worrying about whether your height makes you seem like an outsider, emphasize and accept your individuality.          

How tall are you? Do you like your height? Let us know in the comments section below!

Photo credit: Pinterest.

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by Lauren Padilla | 9/19/2018
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