I’d say that you sound very much like an eighth grader – much too insecure and focused on appearance and what other people think of you. Realize that all the other people around you are also much more focused on themselves and on what other people think of them than they are on you. Once you realize that they are too worried about themselves to worry about you, it takes some of the pressure off. People in middle school are often very awkward and say stupid things, so if people say bad things, try not to take it too personally. If you know that you look good (assuming you weren’t thin to begin with and are now anorexic-looking), the comments may come out of their own insecurity. Many boys your age have no idea how to talk to girls properly, and cover for that by being rude. It has very little to do with you; it is their own problem.

As an eighth grade teacher and as a female with life-long body issues, I can really empathize on two levels — as an adult and as someone who was once your age.

First of all, CONGRATULATIONS! Way to go by losing the weight and for thinking you look awesome. Good body image is so important, and it’s amazing how many girls, and even some boys, your age and older never feel they look good. Keep that feeling! And remember, it’s who you are inside, your heart and mind, that glow through your skin, and show your true beauty. Of course, if your outside is cute too, that always helps!

Now, onto the more serious topic: what people think. This is eighth grade. From some people who knew you before when you were chunkier, there might be jealousy to deal with. If there is, realize that any jealousy is the other person’s energy. It is not your problem. You accept yourself; real friends will accept you and love you just as you are. If someone does not accept you and love you, then that person is not a true friend.

On the other hand, you also might get accepted by new people now that you have a different look. Be happy about it, but a little on the lookout. Do they like you for you, or are you just the latest conquest they can count on their fashionista belts? Give it a week or two to see what their real intentions are. Listen to what they say about other people, because if you are not there, they will say the same thing about you. Sometimes this is good, sometimes not so good.

As for boys, no worries. You are beautiful because you are young, and you are probably just beautiful anyway as a young person. Don’t overdo the makeup. Definitely don’t smoke! Remember, just like with real friends, a real boyfriend will like you for you. He won’t use you or be after just one thing.

Remember: no boy is worth crying over, and any boy who is worth your love won’t make you cry. Also, friends come into our lives for a reason, a season, or (we hope) forever. These are changeable, changing times. You and everyone around you is growing — physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually. You might drop some people as friends and pick up others.

GOOD LUCK in your upcoming year. Don’t worry too much what people say. Just be true to yourself. Don’t give in to peer pressure. Say and do what’s right even if you are the only one, because you know in your heart what is right. Stand up for what you believe in. And be kind.

Thanks for asking this question. I hope so much that you have a terrific year!

Cheers, K (8th grade English teacher)

Just relax and take it easy. Buy some nice new clothes. Don’t worry so much about what people say. Its what’s on the inside that matters.

well i say good for you that you lost weight and that you will get plenty of compliments. as for the guys just sit back and relax they will eventually start noticing you a lot more so dont be so nervous.

Walk in like nothing is different, and keep in mind that you are the same person on the inside; don’t treat anyone bad because you look good. Enjoy, you’ll have a great year.

If someone says you look nice, just say thank you. Don’t give a big explanation about how you did it. Do some complimenting of your own that first day….

You just told me you look awesome, and I believe you. Since you know you look good, people will probably be pleasantly surprised. And they will get used to the new you quickly.

be confident ..guys like confidents ..be confident about how you look but not to confident cuz then thell think your a biotch and thats it

just relax…you should be happy and confidence..have a very nice day ..

just feel proud of your self and if they do tease you they are probably just jealous!