Friday 27 February 2015

Confidence 101

Welcome back to my blog! (really sorry for the delayed post, I have been busy with revision again)

So, today I would like to discuss a major issue that is still common with young girls (i.e teenagers). Confidence. I know, a scary subject, but I have tips that are bound to work - they worked for me!

First of all, let me fill you in. Growing up I was a confident little girl, I loved to showcase my dance routines to my family and friends. I would sing regularly and freely and also making friends was not an obstacle. From what I believe, there was a traumatic event that I'm not going to go in to detail, all you need to know is that I was scarred. I refused to perform in front of anyone and making friends was a challenge. I would allow people to approach me and make an effort rather than trying myself. Regardless, I am still the girl who trusts too easily (which is a good thing at times).

You may be in the same position right now and thinking you are okay with everything and there may be some that really want to become more confident and open. I am telling you now, this will help you a lot in the future whether you are applying for a job or meeting new people.

Step 1: You need  to find something you love. This will allow you to put all you heart and soul into what you do. In my case, I loved dancing. I thought to myself that enough is enough. I picked up my feet and went to a dance club after school (in my school). Fortunately for me, my dance teacher already knew me. By joining or doing something you love, not only are you going to find others with the same interest, but you're also building your skills! This may be a giant leap... however, you have to start somewhere rather than constantly procrastinating and delaying. Just don't think about it and just do it.

I know, you're thinking this is easier said than done. I am living proof. You have to eventually let your walls down and convince yourself. One thing I found myself doing a lot was evaluating what others do. Think about how they started... similar to your situation right? So now, what makes you different to them? If they can do it, so can you! 'Till this day I still use this phrase and it helps to keep me calm.

Step 2: This should be a bit more easier. Expand your friendship circles. You may like to be alone, but having friends makes your life experiences so much more fun and easier for you to get through. The thought of always having people there to be there at your lowest point should be convincing enough. Some may find that they do not get along with friends in their school but there are so many other opportunities for you to make friends. Join clubs at your local youth centres, apply for summer schools or any trips both inside and outside of school. By believing and loving yourself you will shine in front of others, making it easier to make friends!

Step 3: This is the tricky one, Now, going back to what you may have done in the 1st step, you need to take this further, whether it is showcasing your talents or joining the debate team. Remember that no-body is perfect. Honestly, internalise this because if someone does make a comment, just remember they are only insecure themselves. This may take some time to do this but you will be able to eventually. For all these steps to work you have to be willing to go the extra mile, your friends will be there to support you no matter what :)

If you would like to ask me any personal questions, feel free to message me privately xo

Thanks for reading :)

Twitter: @16andRolling
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Friday 20 February 2015

Following your dreams - Life is way too short

Sorry I haven't posted in ages, I have been so caught up in revision for my mock exams that I lost track of time. Whilst revising, I was hit with the though of my underlying dream I wish I did follow. Fashion Designing. I know, big difference from a career choice related to English. but let me take you back in time and hopefully you will not make the same mistakes.

Growing up, I was a very active child (I still am) but I did a lot more extra-curricular activities that were both in and out of primary and secondary school. One thing I loved to come home to was drawing, especially designing clothes. I wasn't much of a fashion icon but I loved fashion with a huge passion, and I still do. I would scroll around Instagram for ages just looking at designs and clothes, expanding my folder of screen shots in my gallery. I remember my first fashion show in secondary school, I took it so seriously. We were allowed to pick out the clothes we wanted to walk out in and accessories (stylists and models!). We were literally walking the runway. Ever since then I have pretty much been obsessed with fashion.

Now, I'm guessing many of you can relate with me here. Your parents want the best for you but what you want to do is not the greatest option, to them anyways. Honestly, I do understand where our parents come from, however this is an issue that is widespread. Children who are amazing at sports or drama are practically forced by their parents to study subjects like maths or sciences because they know what is"bets". Yes I agree, studying maths or science in the future may open you to many doors like being a scientist or an accountant. The problem is your child may not be in love with what they do. I understand that money has become the main goal in everyone's eyes but what about passion?



In my experience, if I could travel back in time and change my pathway. I would. Even though I am still young (16 years old). I would have had a lot more opportunities if textiles was on my GCSE results paper. Instead, I had subjects which were to take me down the more "academic" route. Even then, I applied to a fashion school in London and got an interview but I couldn't go due to my parents. Fortunately, I still draw and design clothes, it will always remain in my heart.

The moral here is that you should follow your dreams, again yes this is very cliche but it is true. You do not want to be sitting here, 3-4 years down the line, reminiscing about the choice you made. In the end it is you that will live your life. If you believe you are good at something and receive good feedback, go for it. Life is way too short to be regretting.

Thanks for reading, I hope I have inspired you x

Twitter: @16andRolling
Instagram: @16androlling
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Sunday 15 February 2015

Should yoga pants/leggings be banned?

As I was reading the news on my tablet, I came across a report on whether leggings and other tight trousers are indecent?

To begin with, I believe that the reason why people may consider tight clothing on women as indecent as they attract the attention of the opposite/same sex. Also that because of how tight fitting the clothing is makes others feel uncomfortable. Regardless of the clothes a woman may wear, they still get the attention from those who want to look, clothing is not the issue here. As for those who feel uncomfortable, everyone has the freedom to wear what they please.

By taking the right away of someone wearing such clothing that makes them feel comfortable is ridiculous. I as a woman love to wear yoga pants/leggings, not only for working out but also as a choice of comfortable clothing, it is a more stylish choice rather than your regular jogging bottoms. By making this illegal not only are you taking our right to freedom of expression, you are also limiting women to what they can wear because of the lurking eye. Are we moving forwards of backwards?


There are other pieces  of clothing that are less 'modest' to the majority in comparison to leggings. Clothing like crop tops and what teenagers call 'batty riders' or 'booty shorts' (shorts that are extremely short, revealing the butt cheek(s)). Until they have been banned it will make sense for leggings to follow, however this is not the case, therefore making leggings/yoga pants illegal is absurd.

What are your opinions?

Twitter: @16andRolling
Instagram: @16androlling
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Saturday 14 February 2015

The Girl Behind The Screen

Well hello there, it's about time you get to know me :)

Name: Yasmin
Age: 16



What are your hobbies?
   If I'm not reading a book or drawing I am either dancing or revising right now because of my a-levels :(

What's my favourite tv series?
   That's a difficult question! I love watching The Vampire Diaries, The Originals, The 100, Suits, The Fosters, Jane The Virgin, Once Upon A Time, The Flash, Pretty Little Liars and many more :D

What is my favourite movie?
    Without a doubt it has to be Harry Potter :) I never thought this would be my type of movie but after watching it I just fell in love <3

What is my favourite animal?
   I love Orangutans sooooo much, they are soooo adorable!

What is your favourite sport?
   If you consider dance a sport then yes, I love to dance :) I love to watch gymnastics and ice skating.

Best place on Earth?
   Anywhere with roller coasters. I love the rush and the nervousness right before boarding. Thorpe Park is bae.

What is your biggest fear?
    My biggest fear is definitely the doctors. I avoid contact with doctors and especially if I know that I have to go I try and dismiss the problem myself.

What did you want to be when you were younger?
    Originally I wanted to be a doctor.. I know, ironic right? I have always had a passion for writing however.

What made you open a blog?
    I have always loved writing, it allows me the chance to express my opinion in a creative way. I am an aspiring journalist so I thought opening a blog will allow me to get more experience in writing and researching :)

If you have any more questions feel free to ask in the comments or from:

Twitter: @16andRolling
Instagram: @16androlling
Tumblr: 16androlling

Tuesday 10 February 2015

Find More When You Explore (+ a bit of my day)

Oh how beautiful London is, it may be the city but it does not get enough credit. From the (really) tall buildings to the cute little Victorian themed shops, reminds me of Diagon Alley in Harry Potter!  I have not been down there for so long it is unbelievable... of course I could not help but take pictures of the area, it's the generation of the Internet. How could I not?







We had the fantastic opportunity to visit the News Academy News Conference in London Bridge. They aim to invest in the future of journalism which is one of the reasons I attended. If it was not for our English teacher we would not have heard about it. This is where the adult advice comes in... Research is the key honestly, you have to constantly be on top of the subjects you want to study and know of the opportunities that may be taking place right at your doorstep! Exploring the Internet may open so many doors, it is just the time and effort you want to put in.I know, it's pretty self explanatory right? You will always find more when you explore, as long as you search in the right places.




From my experience, many teenagers have no clue what-so-ever to what they would like to do... well... that was me about 24 hours ago... I was clueless. Today really did open my eyes to the journalist pathway and I am almost 100% that is where I want to be at the end of University. Getting to this decision was difficult, I started with considering the sciences, then art, then fashion however English and writing has always been a passion of mine, and I am right back to where I started. It was a never-ending spiral but I received a lot of support!



Finally, my day finished with coffee from Costa and lunch with the girls! First time trying Costa as I am more of a Starbucks lover. I ordered a Iced Vanilla Latte, and wow, that was amazing, if you love coffee just as much as I do then you will definitely love this drink! (but it is probably better in the summer).

That's all for today, thank you for reading my blog, hopefully you will follow it :)

Sunday 8 February 2015

Sixth Form (College Life)

The joy of turning 16. The rush of feeling like a young adult. The responsibilities that come with this age that may make or break your future... so choose your path wisely.

Yes I know... kill joy right?

But it is true, 16 may be this fabulous age that may open a few doors of privileges and maturity but there is also the reality.. in the UK we call it college...

6 months ago, I remember the nerves and excitement that rushed through every tip of my body, as if the oxygen in my body had been converted to emotions. I couldn't establish whether I wanted to start already or I wanted to turn back around and decrease my age. Obviously that's impossible, oh well. Honestly I do not regret it one bit. I'll admit, college has been one hectic journey; from starting college, homework, coursework, exams, family and the realisation of the remaining 4 months of college. Gulp! Yes... only 4 months,
excluding the days on holiday, that makes 3 months left of teaching... Yikes... If you're starting college soon, don't turn it down because the years seem too long, trust me the time flies way to fast. Before you know it you'll be in waiting for your 2nd year exam results. The idea frightens me but that's life, no matter how slow things feel or how down you may be, just remember time will always move forward, the way you feel will soon enough disappear as time goes by. In that case, I know it's cliche but don't over think things, you're just wasting time, take risks (risks that will help you by the way not crazy risks that will get you into trouble) and explore what you're capable of, because believe it or not but 16 is pretty much the age that determines where your pathway in the future lies. Obviously unless you win the lottery and become a millionaire, then I guess what you did at 16 won't really matter.

On that note, thanks for reading my first blog post, I hope you like it. Feel free to leave any comments. :)

Yasmin x