To Whom It May Concern

I often flashback to my younger self and wish I had access to the knowledge that I have now. As an older sibling, elder cousin and model, I often sit back and wonder how the state of the world is affecting those closest to me through relation and experience. I wonder how others cope, decide and maneuver during this current age of technology, oversaturated consumer markets and narcissism. Then I remember that this has always been our theme, and technology has just boosted everything.

My position as a model puts me in the limelight, leaving me susceptible to questions of all kind! Naturally, I enjoy being an outlet or source of advice, but I do know not everything because life is a journey and we all have our own paths. She is fairly unfair to everyone! Gratefully so, along my journey, I have cultivated values that serve as ground zero for individuality and perseverance. In magical ways, they have proven to be highly valuable.

• This one is best learned at an early age and is not always up to us, but remember that we must do what we can. Cherish home, from the chairs to the actual people. Accept YOURS. Keyword being "accept."

• Feed your dreams and your needs. Learn to dismiss (unnecessary) wants. This will really pay off in the long run, both financially and mentally. With this, you can possibly transform into an adult not pressured by the superficial consumer habits.

• Work hard at avoiding peer pressure. Even as an adult "having it all figured out," you are still human, and humans can fall victim at any age.

• Stay active. Learning this habit early can potentially help you master new hobbies and create a stream of income off of them! You never know where the road may take you!

• Openly accept change, especially when you are scared. Without change, you sit in wonder. Change brings experience, chance, and evolution.

• Do not believe the hype (regarding any subject)! For example, one of the most feared side effects of birth control is gaining weight. However, there is a common misconception that this is an automatic side effect, and that is false. Users of birth control, amongst other things, may experience side effects, however, they apply differently to each individual. We each have our own diet, lifestyle habits, and specific DNA which is crucial to take into account when choosing birth control or even which skin type you have.

The Cut recently published an article by Anna Silman titled "Every Girl I Knew Was On It: Why some women are questioning hormonal birth control." Through this piece, Silman is upfront with her journey with birth control and admits it is a hot commodity, probably one of the most popular amongst oral contraceptives. Silman admits that she began taking the pill as an adolescent, when, naturally, your doctors and parents "know best." Now in her later years, she finds herself wondering more and more about this tiny pill, because depending on the source, you may experience "a reduction in anxiety or increased libido." Regardless of the rumors, Silman says, "The current scientific consensus is that the majority of women do not experience adverse side effects from the Pill. Dr. Erika Banks, director of gynecology at New York's Jack D. Weiler Hospital said she's noticed an increase in patients coming in with vague concerns about the long-term hormone use but she isn't sure where this information could be coming from."

Personally, stay tuned for my next dish on my experience with the Pill, hormones and everything in between! Just keep in mind, do not just believe the hype, do your research and do what is best for you!

• Finally, after all that, here we are just to say trust yourself. Learn yourself inside and out. At times, it is necessary to give your brain a break, ask around, and do some research, but always make your decisions based upon yourself and the knowledge you know in your heart. #clicheandcornyallday. There will always be trends and something will always be the most popular, but regardless, you will always know your direction if you trust who you are.

Has it been previously said that these words are for the author as well? It just doesn’t hurt to spread the love, the encouragement. Regardless of where we come from and what separates us, we will have our fair share of fun and scary experiences. Take these as suggestions, not commands or rules. Every day that you wake you are given the opportunity to make new decisions, it is all ultimately up to you.