You may have already noticed that you're going through emotional changes. Some emotional changes are really positive—others are more challenging. Here are some things you might be feeling:

Your thinking changes

It's called "cognitive development"—and it means you're now able to think more abstractly—more like an adult than a kid.

You can express your feelings a lot better

Your feelings might start to make a lot more sense to you. You may find that you can express what you're feeling a lot better, whether you're feeling happy or sad. This gives you a clearer sense of "self"—of who you are.

You feel really emotional

You may get mad at parents and friends easily. A little thing that wouldn't have bothered you earlier drives you crazy now. Your kid sister might really get on your nerves. Feeling angry is normal during puberty because of the hormonal changes. In fact, for the same reason, many women get edgy right before their periods.

"Mood swings" are also common throughout puberty. This is when you feel really happy one minute and then really angry or even sad the next minute. So if you're feeling angry you may want to count to 10 (it works!) and think about it before you yell at your mom or friend.

You cry a lot

You may cry because of something very serious that makes you feel sad or disappointed—or you may burst into tears because you left your favorite hairband in the gym. This is also normal! It happens to a lot of women having Premenstrual Syndrome too, (see the PMS section of this site), and will happen to most girls throughout puberty. Just accept that you're a little emotional right now.

You feel a lot more womanly

Some girls find that they're feeling more feminine. Whether you prefer playing hockey with the guys or talking about nail polish, remember—it's normal!

You think you're weird

You probably compare yourself to your friends, and feel like there's something really wrong with you. You may feel unsure of yourself. Well, guess what? Everyone else does, too! Your personality is growing and you're becoming even more unique—just when all you want is to fit in more easily! Fortunately, your personality will win this one, and you'll become a self-assured adult. Just remember that everyone else your age is self-conscious too, so chances are they won't be worrying about you!