I will never forget the moment I realized being nice is cooler than being popular.

“Our 2012 Prom Queen is…. Brooke Settoon!”

“What? There is no way…”

There are many things I don’t remember about grade school, but I still can recall the times where I desperately wanted to fit in. I believed popularity was the key to the acceptance of my peers. If the popular crowd liked me, then everybody else would too. It was until senior year that I realized it wasn’t true. Popularity isn’t the key. My friendly personality led me to the appreciation of the student body.

It’s nonsensical to want the need for approval.  However, acceptance boosts self-confidence. One wrong impression can set off unnecessary assumptions. Untrue rumors spread like wildfire, especially on social media. Bullying can be the end cause. Many victims commit suicide or acts of violence. According to Bully Statistics, nearly 30 percent of students are bullies or victims of bullying, and 160,000 kids stay home from school every day because of fear of bullying. 

Here are a few pointers on how to spice up your school year with a dash of nice:

• Treat people like books. The cover isn’t as important as the inside. Don’t rely on your friends’ opinions. You should try to get to know the person or group yourself. For example, ask questions if you don’t understand somebody’s condition or authenticity.
• Practice inclusion. When giving a group project or task, communicate with each person. Be polite and listen even when you disagree with him or her.
• Always speak up. Don’t be afraid to say something if you hear or see somebody getting harassed. If the harassment is on social media, report it. You can also respond to negative comments with positivity. Many young girls experience body shaming. A way to end it is to stress how imperfections make them unique.

Imagine your high school reunion ten years from now. What will it be like? Will you be the person everybody is happy to see, or will you be the person everybody is trying to avoid seeing? Your classmates will end up forgetting your status quo. They will not forget your character, though. Be nice. It will change your life.