While the end of summer is bittersweet, the start of a fresh school year brings a host of new opportunities. From new friends to varsity tryouts to finally asking out your Biology crush, there’s room for reinvention in all fonts this year. Need a little inspo? Look no further than the characters in your fave books.
Hermione Granger: Be Ambitious
When it comes to any academic inspiration, Hermione is our girl. Not only is she brilliant and puts all her Charms classmates to shame, but she’s got incredible determination and ambition. The key to her success is that she doesn’t let expectations define her (remember when she used an illegal Time-Turner to maximize her courseload?). This year, go for all the opportunities that speak to you…no matter how scary they may seem. Want to try out for the varsity soccer team? Build a strict practice regimen and hype yourself up for tryouts. Interested in AP Calculus but intimidated by the complex equations? Go for the extra challenge. If you apply yourself, the sky is really the limit (no magic needed).
Charlie Spring: Take a Chance
Opposites attract is top tier for the central Heartstopper couple, Nick and Charlie. Nobody would’ve believed that Nick, everyone’s favorite golden retriever/rugby player dream boy, would end up with shy and insecure Charlie. And guess what? They ended up going down in the Cute Couple Hall of Fame (not a real thing, but in our hearts, it’s sacred). Take a *leaf* (get it?) out of Charlie’s book this year by going for the person that makes your heart stop this semester, even if they’re into different things or hang with another crowd. If you put effort into really getting to them, and let them see how amazing you are, anything is possible.
Starr Carter: Make a Difference
Angie Thomas’s award-winning novel The Hate U Give rocked the nation back in 2017, and its reverberating impact is still felt today. The incredibly courageous and real protagonist Starr reminds us of the importance of speaking out. As you navigate the beginning of the school year, no matter your circumstances, take note of any injustice or inequality that you see, whether within the school or in your community, and put the effort into reversing it. Disappointed by the lack of available books in your community? Organize a book drive. Worried about climate change? Host a bake sale for research. The only thing between you and a better future is, well, you.
Pippa Fitz-Amobi: Have Grit
While we’re hoping you don’t end up solving a murder case this semester, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t embody our favorite good girl/crime solver as the academic season begins. Pippa never let anything or anyone stop her from finishing what she set her mind to, and neither should we. Working through a complicated APUSH practice set? Nervous about your audition for Maria in the fall production of West Side Story? Stuck with a difficult lab partner for the whole year? Think like Pippa…and take it in stride. Anything can be accomplished with the right amount of grit (just, ya know, maybe don’t break any laws to achieve your goals).
Lara Jean Covey: Put Yourself Out There
The list wouldn’t be complete without the biggest reinvention in teen romcom history. Lara Jean’s world, while safe, comfortable and cupcake-scented, would’ve been limited had she not been given a (slightly boundary-crossing) nudge by her well-meaning little sis. With the letters out in the open and a fake dating plot at her doorstep, the shy teen had to navigate her way to confidence…and discovered all that she was capable of (including love) in the process. Just like Lara Jean, be brave, take new chances and open yourself to unexpected connections this season.
Check out our Insta @girlslifemag for more main character inspo!
More life lessons incoming…
🌸 Got The Homesick Blues? We Can Help With That
🌸 We’re Rewriting The Rules Of Hot Girl Summer
🌸 Here’s Exactly How To Level Up Your Resume Just In Time For Senior Year
Image: @nicolelaeno
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