Advice to Your Teenaged Sexual Self

Writing a letter to yourself, your past self, from your current viewpoint is a common trope. One that can be effective, but often isn’t. But I have to say, I love this piece. Reconsidering your own sexual experience, thoughts, societal pressures and your own pressures is an interesting exercise.

What would I say to my younger self? Be confident. Talk to people. Try a series of short relationships. Don’t always fall “in love.” Learn to flirt and recognize it when someone does it to you.

I don’t recall any overreaching societal issues that I ever dealt with, in terms of sex. No pressures, no
bullying—just my own shyness.

What would you say to yourself?

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