Don’t Be That Girl: The Guide to Being Your Best Self

We all know that girl. You know, the one who rolls her eyes at kindness, cuts in line, and somehow still makes us wonder what’s going on with her. But fear not! The path to not being that girl is an awesome, uplifting, and fun one, and it’s a journey we can all enjoy together. Here’s a quick guide on how to be a good partner, a true friend, a community gem, and, of course, to steer clear of any mean-girl territory.

*Disclamier: I “was” that girl, learn from my mistakes and be the true happy and more positive version of you.

1. Be the Supportive Girlfriend/Wife

Forget the drama of reading into every emoji or cryptic text. Instead, be the partner who genuinely cheers on their loved one’s successes. Celebrate that work promotion, listen to the random facts about their hobbies, and be there when things get tough. Being a supportive partner is about being a team player – cheering for your teammate and giving them space to shine. When you choose support over skepticism and kindness over nitpicking, you both grow as a couple. Plus, nothing beats the high of knowing you’re both rooting for each other.

2. Be the Friend Everyone Wants Around

A good friend isn’t there just for the fun brunch selfies; they’re also there when things get real. Don’t be the friend who only shows up for the highlight reel. Be the friend who shows up for the unfiltered parts, too—the late-night vents, the moving-day sweats, and the times when a shoulder to cry on is worth more than any number of “likes.” Send a random check-in text. Ask questions. Actually listen to the answers. Don’t just be “taggable.” Be memorable.

3. Lend a Hand, Build a Community

Being “that” girl often means only thinking about oneself. Flip that script! Join the neighborhood clean-up, volunteer at the local shelter, or just keep an eye out for your elderly neighbor. Helping others isn’t just about making the world a little better—it’s also a surefire way to add some sunshine to your own life. Be the person who’s known not just for what they have but for what they give. It’s surprising how one small act can ripple into a wave of kindness around you.

4. Stand Up, Don’t Tear Down

The world has enough bullies, and we’re so over them. Don’t be the girl who snickers at someone’s new look or puts someone down just to get a laugh. Real power comes from lifting people up, not tearing them down. Compliment a stranger, let someone else take the spotlight, and never be afraid to be the one who steps in when someone else is being hurt. Empathy is cool. Compassion is timeless. And standing up for others is always, always a good look.

5. Practice the Art of Laughing at Yourself

Don’t be the girl who can’t take a joke about herself or gets defensive about every little mishap. Life is too short! Laugh it off, let it go, and embrace the quirks. Maybe you tripped in those new heels, or perhaps you said something weird in a meeting. Who cares? Embracing your funny side not only makes you more lovable but also reminds people around you that you’re human, too. It’s refreshing and way more fun to be able to laugh together rather than trying to keep up a picture-perfect facade.

6. Choose Growth, Always

It’s easy to coast, but growth is where the magic happens. Ask yourself: am I someone I’d want to be around? If the answer is no, don’t worry; that’s just the first step to changing it. Realize that everyone’s a work in progress, and not being that girl is simply about showing up every day and doing the best you can to be a good partner, a great friend, a helpful citizen, and a kind-hearted person. Embrace change, keep learning, and remember that a small effort today plants the seeds for the better person you’ll be tomorrow.

So here’s to being the girl who’s loving, compassionate, and a breath of fresh air. It’s fun, it’s rewarding, and it’s way better than being that girl!