16 things to do before you turn 16

This summer is the perfect time to be in nature, find your happy place and make your voice heard.

Recent events have served as a reminder of how important it is to stay connected to friends, family, our community, our creativity and, most importantly, ourselves. And while it’s still important to dream big (visit all seven continents!), there’s a lot to be said for nailing some smaller goals right now. What every girl should do before she blows out 16 candles…

1. CATCH A SUNRISE

Sure, you love to sleep in. But one morning, set your alarm for the rack o’ dawn and take in a sunrise. staying at the beach? Head down to the shore and watch that fiery ball rise above the ocean. Or gather up our girls at the next sleepover and head out to a spot in your neighborhood that gives you a good vantage point of the early light. It’ll help you start the day inspired and happy.

2. RECONNECT WITH AN OLD FRIEND

Remember that girl you hung out with for an entire summer at day camp when you were 11? Or maybe you had a friendship fallout with a once-bestie over an issue that now seems stupid. It’s the perfect time to catch up. Shoot her a text or send a DM on Insta just to say hey and see what she’s up to. Maybe you’ll wind up hanging out IRL or maybe you’ll just trade messages back and forth. Either way, you won’t be left wondering whatever happened to her.

3. SING YOUR HEART OUT