Girls: Tools for your backpack.
Hey there girls! Being a pre-teen can be super exciting, but it can also be tough.
Sometimes it feels like everything is changing, and it's hard to know how to deal with your emotions. Whether you're feeling sad, getting bullied, or dealing with conflicts with friends, there are techniques you can use to help you feel better. Here are some tips to get you started:
Stay positive: It's important to remember that even when things seem tough, they won't always be that way. Try to focus on the good things in your life and stay optimistic about the future. KJ TECHNIQUE: I like a good upbeat soundtrack or some creative journaling to get my mind back to a positive place.
Talk to someone: If you're feeling sad, it can help to talk to someone about how you're feeling. This could be a friend, a parent, a teacher, or a counselor. Sometimes just getting your feelings out can make you feel a lot better. KJ TECHNIQUE: Having a therapist has been life changing for me from a young age. But also older, wiser mentors and women who are in professions or hobbies that I am interested in has been helpful.
Stand up for yourself: If you're being bullied, it's important to stand up for yourself. Don't let the bully make you feel bad about yourself. Tell an adult you trust, and remember that you have the right to feel safe and respected. KJ TECHNIQUE: Even as a married mom and businesswoman, the best advice I can give is to ASK FOR WHAT YOU NEED.
Find a hobby: Doing something you enjoy can be a great way to lift your spirits. Whether it's drawing, playing video games, or playing sports, find something you love and make time for it. KJ TECHNIQUE: Well, mine isn’t hard to guess! I love fly fishing but I also love hiking, stand up paddle boarding, camping, gardening and playing with my kids (play is such a lost art!).
Practice forgiveness: If you're dealing with conflicts with friends, try to forgive them and move on. Holding onto grudges will only make you feel worse. Remember that everyone makes mistakes, and try to see things from their perspective. KJ TECHNIQUE: Communication is another lost art (like play). We can all do it better and will continue to work on communication in our most dear relationships for life. Hearing others out and taking accountability for your own stuff sets for a healthy relationship.
Take care of yourself: Make sure you're taking care of your physical and emotional health. Get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, and exercise regularly. Take time for self-care activities like taking a bubble bath or reading a book. KJ TECHNIQUE: BLOCK TIME FOR YOURSELF! Have come calm time in your day, reflection, meditation and exercise. Period. Love yourself.
Remember, you're not alone. Every pre-teen goes through tough times, and it's okay to ask for help. By using these techniques, you can combat sadness, bullying, and conflicts with friends and start feeling happier and more confident.