13 ways being uncool in high school changes you for the better

You're now better equipped to be a dope-ass adult.

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Complex Original

Image via Complex Original

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After surviving my twenties, I realized that the best training I ever got for becoming a well-adjusted, confident adult was being totally uncool in high school.

I was not popular. I probably went to one party, and was only invited because my best friend organized it (there was a keg, so obviously everyone showed up). Other than that, I was home every weekend chillin' with my mom.

But being uncool changed me in all the best ways. Sure, it wasn’t the greatest back then, but it made me such a better adult than if I had been popular. If you were uncool in high school, here are 13 ways it changes you (and 13 reasons why you should be proud of your lack of cool):

1. You become more empathetic and compassionate.

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2. You care less about other people’s approval.

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3. It forces you to accept yourself.

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4. You tend to form stronger friendships in adulthood.

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5. You become more resilient.

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6. You get better at thinking outside the box

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7. It forces you to define happiness for yourself.

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8. You get better at being alone.

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9. It helps you figure out what's interesting about yourself.

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10. It gives you space to experiment.

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11. You become a keen observer.

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12. You sow your wild oats later in life (and more responsibly).

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13. You can peak whenever you want.

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