Middle School Advice

So... your just starting Middle School, but of course your nervous about everything. This guide is just my experience, it's best to try things out beforehand.

Phones:
You've been begging your parents but they just won't get you a phone. It's Ok, not everyone has their own phone and it's fine. You won't be humiliated no one will bully you. I'm almost positive that most starting out Middle Schoolers don't have phones most of the time. If your parents give you a flip phone or another alternative, be grateful. This could be a stepping stone for some other things like a smartphone. Most importantly NEVER be ashamed about what you were given. Display your new flip phone proudly (If you want)! There's nothing wrong with it.

The Movies:
Movies always show middles school as a very dramatic time when in reality everyone is just self conscious. There is no 'bully', 'popular group', or 'nerd'. In elementary there's always that kid who can run really fast or that kid who can juggle. These 'labels' are no different in middle school. Sure you could be a “nerd” but no one will treat you any different. There is (*most of the time) no popular kids, only people who are a bit 'grown up' compared to everyone else but that doesn't mean there super popular (in the way that movies show) it just means people look up to them a bit more. Occasionally there are popular kids but their usually really sweet and it's not like their treated like a king or queen.

Dating (Go somewhere else for this I don't have any good advice xD) :
This one is self explanatory, most people (that I know) don't/didn’t date in MS, it's your choice, don't feel pressured to date just because of your friends.

Appearance:
A lot of people feel the need to empty their closet and start as a fresh new person. There is nothing wrong with this (in fact I did it as well), but you shouldn't feel like you have to change everything about yourself to fit in. You don't need makeup or anything artificial. Sure, some kids start putting on makeup in middle school but it's not a must, you should feel amazing without it. If you don't, try taking a break [from makeup] for a while and just feel good about yourself. You don't need to have the perfect body, hair, face or anything else.

Makeup Alternatives:
It's perfectly fine to feel like you need to cover up a few blemishes or something. If your not allowed to have makeup but still want to get rid of some spots on your face or some acne, just try to get some sort of face cream or acne cream to clear up your skin a bit. It's important to take care of your skin and hair especially if it's oily (this makes you more prone to acne).

Clothes:
You DON'T need to get a new wardrobe! If you can't afford to, it ok, not everyone renews their wardrobe so often. If you really want to get some new cloth/new styles. Try going thrifting, it's affordable and you get a lot of styles to choose from (I love aesthetic clothes!). I highly recommend thrifting if you're looking for affordable clothing (plus you can find some great stuff!). Also, your clothes don't have to be just crop tops and shorts, wear what your comfortable with. That could even be just a hoodie, school isn't a fashion show (feel free to wear your favorite clothes tho).

Friends:
Friends come naturally don't force it. You might bump into each other, end up sharing a desk. Most friendships are accidental. If you want to approach a possible friend, do it! That's how I have one of my very best friends. Start talking to each other. Dont forget old friends too! Their so important, they helped keep you going during your toughest times. If your going through drama with a friend, keep your cool, it will probably pass. Losing friends is tough but it's natural, if you and your friend stop communicating, try to talk to them again. If they refuse after multiple attempts, that might mean the friendship is not worth chasing after. Remember to always remain kind to them though!

This is all from experience, and my thoughts, the main thing is don't be nervous and stay calm

Note: There’s a lot of things I wish I could have talked about [(social) anxiety, sexuality, mental health] but unfortunately there isn’t enough space. I recommend looking for advice on this online or talk to friends.

Tips:
If you're looking for a new clothing m style or hair style, try Pinterest
Popularity doesn't matter
Stay calm, everyone is worried about themselves, you shouldn't be too self conscious
Don't get caught up in drama, stay away from the kids who make it
Wear what you want whether it be aesthetic clothes or shorts and a t-shirt (just be wary of your schools dress code, some people at my school have gotten a in trouble for this)
If someone tells you some drama keep it to yourself, don't spread it
Join sports, or clubs, get to know your homeroom
Be confident, I look back at a lot of things and regret not being more confident, don't make the same mistake